Grain-free protein powder is not always easy to come by, especially if you’re seeking vegan or plant-based options. But there are some good options out there.
Aside from whey or animal-based protein, a lot of vegan protein powder contains some form of grain like brown rice, quinoa, or amaranth.
To help narrow your search, below we delve into the world of grain-free protein powder and what products to look for.
What is gain-free protein powder?
Grain-free protein powder is a type of protein supplement that is free from grains, such as rice, wheat, corn, or millet. Rice is one of the most popular grains found in protein powder, but it’s also one of the most problematic for some individuals.
Grain-free products are often made from seed and legume-based sources, like pea protein, hemp protein, pumpkin seed protein, and chia seed protein. When appropriately combined, these protein powders provide a diverse blend of amino acids, antioxidants, fibers, and omega-3 fatty acids.
The absence of grains can be vital for individuals looking to minimize potential negative effects they may experience with grain consumption, such as digestive problems and inflammation.[1]
What are the benefits of grain-free protein powder?
Grain-free protein powder often contains high fiber, which regulates digestion, lowers cholesterol levels and maintains stable blood sugar levels. This can contribute to improved gut health, better weight management, and reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.[2]
Because they’re often made with quality-sourced seeds and legumes, grain-free protein powders are often allergen-friendly and certified vegan, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
Grain-free protein powders are also great for individuals following gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free diets, such as the paleo diet. However, not all grain-free options are considered true paleo protein powders, as they may contain legumes or other processed ingredients that aren’t entirely paleo.
Best grain-free vegan protein powders worth trying
I’ve tried a lot of different vegan protein powders that fall into the grain-free category. Some are certainly better than others, both from a taste and nutritional point of view. Below I highlight a few products I find to be the best options worth trying.
Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein
Garden of Life Sport is a well-rounded option made from pea, navy bean, lentil, garbanzo bean, and cranberry. I purchase this protein powder regularly, not only because it’s grain-free but because it offers a comprehensive amino acid profile that’s well-suited for muscle recovery.
It contains 5.5 grams of branched-chain amino acids, 5 grams of glutamine and glutamic acid, and 30 grams of protein per serving. Topped off with an anti-inflammatory recovery blend, Garden of Life Sport is a protein powerhouse that’s designed with athletes in mind.
Read my review of Garden of Life Sport.
Orgain Simple Protein Powder
One of the best vegan protein powders in terms of taste and nutrition, Orgain Simple Protein offers an all-organic blend of pea, peanut, pumpkin seed, almond, and chia seed. It packs 20 grams of protein per serving and is sweetened with organic coconut sugar, providing a naturally delicious flavor.
In addition to being grain-free, Orgain Simple Protein is non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free protein powder. It’s a good option that offers clean nutrition with a simple and natural ingredient list, making it ideal for individuals looking for a straightforward and high-quality plant-based protein powder.
Read my review of Orgain Simple Protein.
Vega Sport Protein
Another sport protein powder that rivals any whey or animal-based options, Vega Sport Protein is loaded with 30 grams of plant-based protein per serving and 5 grams of BCAAs. The protein blend includes pea, organic pumpkin seed, organic sunflower seed, and alfalfa protein.
It contains tart cherry, which is known for its potential benefits in post-workout recovery, and probiotics to support immune health during intense workouts. Vega Sport Protein is a bit sweeter than Garden of Life Sport, but it’s generally more affordable.
Read my review of Vega Sport Protein.
Sunwarrior Warrior Blend
Sunwarrior Warrior Blend is a proper grain-free protein blend that’s made of organic fermented pea, organic goji berry, and organic hemp seed. It’s a digestion-friendly product that provides a complete amino acid profile and is rich in BCAAs.
Free of sugar and extremely low in carbs, Sunwarrior contains medium-chain triglycerides from coconut, making it one of the best keto vegan protein powders on the market. It’s available in various flavors, including a Natural option that’s stevia-free.
Read my review of Sunwarrior Warrior Blend.
No Grains, No Worries
Grain-free protein powder offers a wide range of benefits, from supporting muscle repair and healthy digestion to providing a safe protein source for individuals with gluten sensitivities or following a paleo diet.
Do you have a favorite grain-free protein powder that’s not mentioned above? Let me know!
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About the Author
This article was written by Tyler Tafelsky, the lead editor here at VeganProteinPowder.reviews. Tyler is an experienced writer in the health and athletic space who has tried hundreds of different plant-based nutritional products and writes about his favorites here on this blog. Learn more about Tyler by viewing his full author bio or by following him on social platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram. You can also visit his personal site TylerTafelsky.com to learn more about what he’s up to.
Scientific References
- Masters RC, Liese AD, Haffner SM, Wagenknecht LE, Hanley AJ. Whole and refined grain intakes are related to inflammatory protein concentrations in human plasma. J Nutr. 2010 Mar;140(3):587-94. doi: 10.3945/jn.109.116640. Epub 2010 Jan 20. PMID: 20089789; PMCID: PMC2821887.
- Barber TM, Kabisch S, Pfeiffer AFH, Weickert MO. The Health Benefits of Dietary Fibre. Nutrients. 2020 Oct 21;12(10):3209. doi: 10.3390/nu12103209. PMID: 33096647; PMCID: PMC7589116.