When it comes to working out and building muscle, the best vegan protein gym supplements are the most excellent choice for gym-goers and athletes who follow a vegan lifestyle.
With more people adopting plant-based diets or reducing their intake of animal products, the demand for vegan protein sources has rocketed. Whether it is to reduce your environmental impact, in solidarity against poor animal welfare or for health reasons - there are approximately 7.2 million British adults who follow a meat-free diet.
The best vegan protein at a glance:
• Best budget vegan protein: MyVegan Pea Protein Isolate Powder - View offer on Myvegan.com
• Best vegan protein powder for flavours: Huel Black Edition - View offer on Uk.huel.com
• Best organic vegan protein powder: Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein - View offer on Gardenoflife.co.uk
To help you navigate the plant-based world, we have rounded up the best vegan protein to support you no matter your lifestyle.
This article will discuss the best vegan protein sources, from high-protein vegan snacks to dairy-free protein shakesand mass gainers. Whether you're looking to build muscle, maintain a healthy weight, or simply increase your protein intake, there is a vegan protein option for you. So let's dive in and discover the power of plant-based protein.
The best vegan high-protein products:
Best budget vegan protein powder
www.myvegan.com
This budget-friendly pea protein isolate powder is versatile for making smooth shakes, costing as little as 44p per serving. Even when mixed with water alone, the smooth texture makes it a perfect base for creating a chocolate milkshake-like drink with milk, ice and banana. For those looking for a neutral flavour, so they can integrate the powder into their food easily, the unflavored version allows for adding fruits, spices, and sweeteners in smoothies, porridge, and even pancakes.
Pros
- Low-sugar and high-fibre
- Smooth-mixing plant protein
- Only 101 calories per serving
Cons
- None we can think of
Best vegan protein powder for flavours
uk.huel.com
Huel Black Edition stands as one of the leading high-protein powders available today, prioritizing leanness without compromising on nutrition. With its low-carb content, Huel Black Edition is particularly suitable for individuals following a keto diet. The Huel Black additions also offer many flavours, including Salted Caramel, Banana, Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee Caramel, and Unflavoured.
Pros
- High protein content
- Many flavours
- Long shelf life
- Gluten-free and vegan
Cons
- It doesn't have the smoothest texture
Best organic vegan protein powder
www.gardenoflife.co.uk
Garden of Life's Raw Organic Protein is a certified organic, non-GMO vegan powder featuring 13 raw sprouted proteins that provide 22 grams per serving. With 22 organic sprouts, it is an excellent source of complete protein and contains essential amino acids, whole-food fat-soluble vitamins, and enzymes. The plant proteins are gently produced at low temperatures without fillers, carriers, or artificial additives, preserving their complete amino acid integrity and whole-food goodness.
This organic protein powder is easily digested and supports muscle building and repair, protein synthesis, and immune health. This highest-quality alternative to soy, whey, and milk protein contains no fillers, artificial flavours, sweeteners, or preservatives, making it suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and those sensitivities to milk and other proteins.
Pros
- Organic ingredients
- Contains no vegetable oils
- No allergens
- No stevia
- Easy to digest with probiotic strains and enzymes in ingredients
Cons
- None we can think of
Best vegan protein powder for women
Free Soul Vegan Protein Shakes offer a complete, plant-based protein blend designed for women, with 20g of lean protein per 30g serving. Formulated with premium quality pea protein isolate and white hemp protein, it also contains key nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support hormone balance, mood, and energy. All of the shakes are free from gluten, soy, dairy, GMO ingredients, artificial flavourings, colours, added sugar, and preservatives, making them a natural whole food source. With a clean formulation, this protein powder can support effective digestion without bloating. Read our review here.
Pros
- Soy free made with hemp isolate protein
- It contains vitamins and minerals that support hormone balance, such as the entire B Vitamin Complex, Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, L-Carnitine and Omega-3.
- Two flavours
Cons
- No unflavoured powder
Best vegan mass gainer
Best vegan mass gainer
ProteinWorks' Mass Gainer Extreme is a top-tier vegan muscle mass builder that boasts 50g of protein, 740 calories, and a good amount of carbohydrates, making it a great choice for vegan gymgoers looking to build muscle. While it is a little more expensive than other brands, this 2kg bag may not last long, with only about ten servings, but those who prioritise the ultimate muscular physique won't be disappointed.
Pros
- Highest protein in any vegan mass gainer
- Great flavour
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients
Cons
- Expensive compared to other products for ten servings
Best bulk size vegan mass gainer
www.bulk.com
Bulk's Vegan Mass gainer is a sustainable, high-protein supplement with natural ingredients and great flavours, making it an excellent alternative for vegans. Although some users have experienced graininess, this is a typical trade-off for the high protein content. However, vegan mass gainers cannot pack in as much protein compared to whey alternatives, so expect to use it up quickly. Overall, Bulk's Vegan Mass gainer offers a delicious and affordable option for those seeking a plant-based protein supplement.
Pros
- Perfect vegan alternative
- High in protein
- Great flavours to choose from
Cons
- Not as high protein as non-vegan alternatives
Best mass gainer snack
Suplex's Heavyweight Mass Gainer flapjack bars are the perfect on-the-go snack for gymgoers who prefer eating over drinking their supplements. With 30g of protein and over 500 calories, these bars are a great alternative to standard mass gainers and protein shakes. They come in delicious flavours and are perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.
Pros
- An incredible amount of protein
- Fantastic 500-calorie bar
- Delicious flavour
Cons
- Not as calorie-rich as mass-gainer drinks
Best high-protein vegan snacks
Best high-fibre low-sugar vegan protein snack bar
Looking for a delicious and indulgent plant-powered protein bar that's high in protein and low in sugar? The Misfits white chocolate salted peanut bar has you covered. With 15g of protein, less than 3g of sugar, and less than 200 calories per bar, this triple-layered, chocolate-coated snack is perfect for pre and post-workout or on-the-go. Dairy-free, gluten-free, and plant-powered, this delicious bar is packed with protein for you to get up and go. There are ten tasty flavours to choose from - if you want to try them all, you can find the variety pack here.
Pros
- This bar is high-fibre and low-sugar
- 12 pack is a good value
- Ten delicious flavours
- Less than 200 calories per bar
Cons
- Some reviews say the texture takes some getting used to
Best vegan protein snack bar for flavours
This tasty and satisfying bar from Ridiculous is a plant-based, palm oil-free bar that's as delicious as it is nutritious. With its low sugar content, high protein and high fibre, this bar will keep you feeling full for longer, all while packing no more than 200 calories per serving. It comes in five fun and delicious flavours, from triple chocolate brownie to wild chocolate peanut. Plus, it's free from gluten, preservatives, and artificial flavours and colours, using only natural sweeteners.
Pros
- Winner of the Women’s Running 2020 Editor’s Choice award in the Vegan Nutrition category
- Less than 1g of sugar, high in protein and high in fibre
- Palm oil free
Cons
- More expensive than other options on our list
Best vegan protein dessert
If you're looking for a dense, high-quality snack that fits your plant-based lifestyle, then these Vegan Protein Brownies fit the bill. Made with 15g of protein and 3g of fibre per brownie - this dairy-free treat is made primarily from pea protein. It boasts an authentic confectionary flavour and consistency, thanks to the use of real dark chocolate. Whether hitting the gym or leading an active and healthy lifestyle, these brownies are the perfect way to fuel your body and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Pros
- Soft-baked texture
- Individually wrapped for on the go
- Good taste
Cons
- Not gluten-free
Best savoury vegan protein snack
Not only does this snack contain an intense punchy flavour, but it is also loaded with plant-based protein, essential minerals like phosphorus and magnesium, and immune-boosting vitamin E. Plus, with its high fibre content, this snack is the perfect addition to any meal or workout routine. Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthier alternative to crisps, Punchy Protein Power is the ideal snack for savoury food lovers. This flavour pack has 174 kcals per portion.
Pros
- Share pack
- 11 savoury flavours
Cons
- Sweet flavours, not vegan
Best biscuit vegan protein snack
Their innovative bites contain a fraction of the sugar found in most snack bars and biscuits, without any added junk. The bites are sweetened with a low glycemic index using coconut sugar or nectar instead of stomach-upsetting alternatives. If you are looking to try different flavours to find a good fit for you, this multipack is a great place to start.
Pros
- Biscuit flavours
- Doesn't use refined sugar
Cons
- Small bags
Best hot savoury vegan protein snack
www.theproteinworks.com
If you want a hot meal or snack, this vegan 'Super Meal' from Protein Works contains the perfect balance of protein, fibre, fats and carbs and delivers 26 essential vitamins and minerals in every bowl. These savoury SuperMeals work out to roughly £5 per meal, so a little bit on the pricy side, but they offer a healthy and convenient solution to maintaining a balanced diet when you're on the go. Each meal is designed to keep you feeling full and satisfied. With various tasty options available, including reduced calorie options, and all meals suitable for vegans, you'll never run out of healthy and delicious meal choices. For an approximately 345-calorie meal, use three scoops (90g) with 200 ml of boiling water. For a 230-calorie meal, use two scoops (60g) with 130 ml of boiling water.
Pros
- Lots of different savoury flavours
- Great for bringing to the office or camping
- High rated
Cons
- Not gluten-free
Best vegan protein cereals
www.hollandandbarrett.com
Feed your inner child with these grown-up protein cereals from Surreal. They are high-protein, keto-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free cereal made from so and are a tasty and healthy twist on your childhood favourite breakfast. With 12g of protein per bowl and zero sugar per serving, this cereal is the perfect way to start your day or satisfy your midnight cravings. You can also buy the variety pack with all four flavours here.
Pros
- Easy high-protein snack or breakfast
- Gluten-free
- Nice flavours
Cons
- Expensive compared to other cereal products
Vegan protein FAQs
What are the benefits of eating plant-based foods?
One of the main concerns people have when transitioning to a plant-based diet is whether they will be able to get enough protein. But the truth is, there are plenty of vegan protein sources that can provide all the essential amino acids our bodies need to function efficiently. Reema Patel, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist for Dietitian Fit & Co, states that a vegan diet can help reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
"A vegan diet can help with reducing blood sugar levels, as well as improving insulin sensitivity.' Reema tells us. 'It can also reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as bowel cancer, as well as reducing blood pressure and heart disease risk. Largely due to the intake of plant-based foods, which are higher in fibre, and known to benefit bowel health.
"Plant-based foods are also great sources of phytochemicals, which include antioxidants. These have been linked with reduced risk of heart disease and other health concerns.
"As vegan foods are generally lower in calories overall than animal foods, a vegan diet can help with weight loss if that is a goal," says Reema. Though this also depends on the quality of vegan food, especially if it is fresh or the meals are highly processed. To ensure you are getting sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals, you can look to vegan supplements that help support your diet.
What are the different sources of vegan protein?
When choosing vegan protein, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to look for products that contain the highest vegetable protein sources, such as legumes, nuts, soy, quinoa and so on. These plant-based protein sources are rich in essential amino acids and are easily digestible by the body.
For a quick and easy snack, try high-protein vegan snacks such as protein bars, nuts, and seeds. These snacks are packed with protein and other nutrients that will keep you feeling full and energised throughout the day.
A high-protein vegan mass gainer can help you achieve your goals if you want to build muscle. These supplements are designed to provide the nutrients you need to build muscle mass and recover quickly after a workout.
If you're on the go, dairy-free protein shakes are an excellent way to get the protein you need. Opt for shakes made with plant-based protein sources, such as pea, hemp, or soy protein. These shakes are perfect for post-workout recovery or as a meal replacement.
What to consider when buying vegan protein products?
When choosing a high-quality vegan protein snack bar or powder, it's essential to look for products made from quality ingredients that will provide your body with the essential amino acids it needs. Here are a few things to consider when selecting vegan protein sources:
Digestibility: Some vegan protein powders can be harder to digest than others, leading to bloating or discomfort. Look for powders that are labelled as easily digestible or have added digestive enzymes to help your body break down the protein more efficiently.
Protein source: Look for powders that are made from high-quality plant-based sources such as peas, hemp, soy, or rice. These sources are considered complete proteins, meaning they contain all of the essential amino acids your body needs.
Additives: Many vegan protein powders contain additives like sugar, artificial flavours, or preservatives. Try to choose products that are free from these ingredients and made from whole food sources.
Additional vitamins and minerals: Also, you can look for a mix that contains other essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Some powders may also include superfoods like spirulina or chia seeds to increase the product's nutritional value.
So with that in mind, let's take a look at the best vegan protein - from snacks and protein shakes to mass gainers.
How to start eating more vegan
Whether you have just started eating plant-based, have been vegan for a while and don't like cooking or want to cut back on animal products; Reema Patel, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist for Dietitan Fit & Co, shares her tips for going vegan.
"Start small with a few swaps – for example, opt for plant-based milk in cereals or coffee or try a soy yoghurt with your granola instead of Greek yoghurt. How about going for a vegetarian chilli with beans and lentils instead of the mince?"
"Have a few vegan meals up your sleeve for quick prep – when you are hungry and want something fast, be sure to think of a few meals that are vegan and easy to put together. For example, a simple pesto pasta but use vegan pesto instead, and add in some vegan cheese. Maybe even try a high-protein pasta to boost the protein content. Or how about scrambled tofu on toast, instead of scrambled eggs? You can buy this ready-prepared, all you need to do is heat and enjoy."
What are the best vegan protein sources?
There are plenty of vegan protein sources to choose from, including lentils, beans, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, nuts, and seeds. Plant-based protein powders, such as pea protein, hemp protein, and soy protein, are also excellent options.
How much protein do I need as a vegan?
According to the British Heart Foundation, the recommended protein intake for adults is around 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight per day (for the average woman, this is 45g or 55g for men). That's about two portions of meat, fish, nuts or tofu per day. However, this differs for athletes, and those looking to build muscle may require more protein. As a vegan, it's important to make sure you're getting enough protein from plant-based sources to meet your nutritional needs.
Can I build muscle on a vegan diet?
With the right vegan protein sources and a well-planned diet, it's possible to build muscle on vegan diet. Plant-based protein powders and high-protein vegan foods can provide the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and recovery.
What are the benefits of choosing vegan protein sources?
Vegan protein sources are often rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. They are also typically lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than animal-based protein sources. Choosing plant-based protein can contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing the environmental impact of animal agriculture.
Are there any downsides to a vegan protein diet?
It's possible to get all the necessary nutrients on a vegan diet, but it does require careful planning. Vegans may need to supplement with vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. It's also important to make sure you're getting enough iron, calcium, and zinc from plant-based sources.
Can I get enough protein without eating meat?
Yes! There are plenty of vegan protein sources that can provide all the essential amino acids our bodies need to function properly. It's important to eat a variety of plant-based protein sources to ensure you're getting all the necessary nutrients.
About the expert
Reena Patel is a Registered Dietitian and member of the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Dietetic Association (BDA). Since completing a Masters in Science in Sports and Exercise Nutrition from Loughborough University, Reena has worked with people to better their relationship with food, as well as working to improve their overall health and wellbeing. She aims to empower people so they themselves can opt for making the most informed choices for self-improvement in whatever area necessary, whether that be managing diabetes or following a plant-based diet.
Ellen Kinsey is a health and wellness product writer for What's The Best, and also writes for Yours, A Modern Kitchen, Modern Gardens, Heat, Closer and Grazia. She has a passion for cooking, health and wellness.
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