Types of Plant Based Protein Powders

Vegan protein powders can be an excellent addition to your nutrition routine, whether you follow a strict plant-based diet or want to diversify your protein sources. They are made from a variety of plant-based sources and offer concentrated doses of protein and nutrients. There are a myriad of plant-based protein powder options available in India. In this post, we will delve into the types of vegan protein powder options and what considerations you should make when making a purchase. 

About Vegan Protein Powders

Traditionally, protein powders are derived from animal sources like casein or whey. However, vegan protein powders are made from a variety of plant sources. The most common bases for vegan protein powders are brown rice, peas, soy, hemp, and other varieties of seeds and grains. If you plan to buy plant-based protein powder in India, let us see what options you have.

Types of vegan protein powder

Soy Protein

This is a highly processed vegan protein powder made from soybeans. Soy protein isolate is made from dehydrated, ground and chemically treated soybeans. It contains all the nine essential amino acids and is one of the most affordable protein powders available. Soy contains a naturally occurring plant compound called phytoestrogen, which mimics the effect of oestrogen in the body. However, it is suggested that you test for food allergies before consuming soy protein since it is a food allergen. It contains complete protein, is smooth and tasteless, inexpensive, heavily processed, and is a common food allergen. 

Pea Protein

As the name suggests, it is made from peas, but not the green ones. Pea protein is extracted from dried yellow split peas through water filtration. It  contains all essential amino acids and is a great natural source of iron and fibre. It is a complete protein, is easily digestible, tastes like peas and has an earthy taste. It is a rich source of zinc and iron. When looking for a safe pea protein powder, look for the one with no use of nitrogen fertilisers or chemical solvents and a higher yield. Go for 100% plant-based protein powder that can provide the highest protein content.

Rice Protein

Rice protein powder is usually made by grinding down brown rice. It is treated with an enzyme to separate carbohydrates from the protein. However, since it does not contain the sufficient amounts of the essential amino acid lysine, it does not qualify as a complete protein source. Rice protein powder is easily digestible, high in fibre, and hypoallergenic. It is easily processed and can be gritty.

Hemp Protein

Cold-pressed raw, peeled and ground hemp seeds provide hemp protein. It is a complete protein source and a powerhouse of nutrients. Hemp protein is a highly sustainable product since hemp plants replenish the soil they are grown in, capture carbon dioxide to purify the air, and do not require pesticides to grow.  So, hemp is a protein powerhouse and an ecological hero. 

Hemp protein is a complete protein, minimally processed source of Fiber and omega 3, extremely eco-friendly, a great source of Vitamin Bs and magnesium, and has an earthy taste. Hemp protein powder is 100% plant-based, rich in heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats and Fiber, and hypoallergenic. 

Sunflower Protein

Though not as well-known as pea, hemp, and soy, sunflower protein is a great protein punch. The same cold-pressing method as hemp protein makes it. Sunflower protein offers a complete source of protein along with a wide range of naturally occurring essential vitamins and minerals. It is a complete protein that is also a source of fibre, magnesium, and calcium. It is easily digestible, allergen-friendly, and minimally processed. Look for sunflower protein powders that use organic sunflower seeds. They are planet and easy to digest, are high in fibre and magnesium, and support your gut health. 

Mixed Plant Protein

Sometimes, plant-based protein powder brands combine multiple plant sources, such as rice and pea protein, to create a complete protein with a balanced amino acid profile. 

Choose the Right Vegan Protein Powder

There are several factors to consider when choosing a vegan protein powder:

• Amino acid profile: Look for a plant-based protein powder that offers a complete amino acid profile and contains all nine essential amino acids.
• Protein content: make sure you check the protein content per serving, which should ideally be 15-20 grams of protein.
• Ingredients: Look for artificial sweeteners, added sugars, and additives. Choose a product with minimal and recognizable ingredients.
• Taste and texture: Some vegan protein powders have a gritty texture and strong flavour. You may want to try a small amount before buying a large tub.
• Allergens: This is important if you have any sensitivities or food allergies. So make sure the vegan protein powder you buy is safe for you to consume.

To Sum Up

Vegan protein powder brands offer an impressive array of options to suit the dietary preferences or requirements of many people. So, if you are looking to have a complete plant-based lifestyle, wish to diversify your protein sources or have specific dietary restrictions, vegan protein powders can be an excellent fit for you.