Introduction

Labeling a product as “clean” might sound impressive, but what does it really signify? In our view, a “clean” protein powder should have minimal ingredients, contain no artificial additives or sweeteners like sucralose, and avoid fillers or thickeners such as gums (with the exception of ready-to-drink shakes). This is crucial when selecting products that impact your health and wellbeing, like high-quality clean protein powder.

Protein comes from various animal and plant sources. For those looking to lose fat while building muscle during intermittent fasting or calorie counting, whey protein isolate is often considered the top choice. On the other hand, if you’re following a gluten-free or vegan diet, or have a dairy allergy, plant-based protein might be more suitable.

To help you find the best protein powder for your needs, our team tested numerous options. We assessed each one based on price, ingredients, protein source, mixability, nutritional value, taste, potential side effects, and customer reviews.

Our Top Picks for Clean Protein Powders

• Best Whey Protein: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

• Best Casein Protein: Legion Casein+

• Best Organic Option: Nutricost Organic Pea Protein

• Best for Weight Loss: Gainful Lose Weight Plant-Based Protein Powder

• Best Collagen Supplement: Sports Research Collagen Peptides

• Best Vegan Protein: Promix Nutrition Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder

• Best Goat Protein: Naked Nutrition Goat Whey Protein Powder

• Best Keto-Friendly Protein: Orgain Keto Collagen Protein Powder

• Best for Muscle Gain: Vital Proteins Vital Performance Protein Powder

• Best Protein Shake: Slate Milk High Protein Shake

Why We Recommend Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate as the Best Whey Protein

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is our top choice for clean whey protein powder. This premium supplement, derived from high-quality whey protein isolate, delivers excellent benefits for muscle gain and recovery.

Whey protein isolate stands out due to its minimal fat and carbohydrate content, including reduced lactose, making it a highly concentrated protein source. It offers an advantage over casein, another milk protein, by providing a higher amount of leucine, a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) crucial for muscle-building.

Priced around $2 per serving, this protein powder offers great value. We appreciate the straightforward ingredient list, which excludes common additives like sucralose, aspartame, and fillers.

Transparent Labs excels in flavor variety, with options ranging from blueberry pancake to chocolate peanut butter. Our testers particularly enjoyed the peppermint hot chocolate flavor, which can be enhanced with whipped cream and marshmallows for a post-workout treat. The unflavored version is also versatile, blending seamlessly into any beverage.

While this protein powder does have a slightly higher sodium content compared to others, choosing the unflavored or vanilla varieties can help manage sodium levels if that’s a concern.

Additionally, Transparent Labs ensures transparency by making their third-party testing results accessible on their website. As Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, points out, “The Transparent Labs Whey Protein is Informed Choice Certified, an important standard that guarantees the product contains exactly what’s on the label—and nothing more.”

Why We Love Legion Casein+ as the Best Casein Protein

Legion Casein+ stands out as our top choice for casein protein due to its impressive nutritional profile. Each serving delivers 24 to 26 grams of high-quality micellar casein protein, sourced from Irish dairy cows, all while keeping calories low at around 110 per serving depending on the flavor. This makes it a superior option compared to other casein proteins that often have higher calorie counts and less protein content. Although it comes with a higher price of about $2 per serving, the quality justifies the cost.

Casein protein digests more slowly than other proteins, such as whey, which can be beneficial for those who train later in the day. This slower digestion helps promote muscle growth even while you sleep. Additionally, Casein+ is a complete protein, providing all essential amino acids necessary for muscle recovery and synthesis. Each scoop also offers 50% to 60% of your daily calcium needs, addressing a common nutritional shortfall in many diets.

However, it’s important to note that casein protein can cause gastrointestinal distress in some individuals, particularly those who are lactose intolerant. **Jen Roper, Ph.D., CSCS**, points out that this may make casein protein less suitable for those with lactose sensitivity.

Our testers found that Casein+ has a thick texture, which requires a bit more effort to blend smoothly into shakes. Using a blender ball alone might not suffice; a full-sized blender is recommended for best results. Despite this, the thick consistency can help you feel more satisfied, making it a good option for curbing post-workout hunger.

The flavors of Legion Casein+ are pleasantly sweet without added sugars, thanks to natural sweeteners like monk fruit, stevia, and/or erythritol. We particularly enjoyed the banana cream pie flavor, which offers a rich, creamy texture with a subtle banana taste.

While Legion asserts that all its products undergo third-party testing to ensure purity, we couldn’t independently verify this for Casein+. We do appreciate Legion’s customer-friendly “no returns necessary” policy, which allows for a full refund without the need to return the product. However, navigating their website can be challenging due to excessive ads and email prompts.

Why We Recommend Nutricost Organic Pea Protein as the Best Organic Option

Nutricost Organic Pea Protein stands out as the top choice for a clean organic protein powder. Each serving delivers 20 grams of protein and 90 calories, with zero additives. The formula is unflavored and contains only one ingredient: organic pea protein isolate.

Superior Protein Quality

Pea protein isolate, used in Nutricost’s formula, is derived from yellow split peas and is known for its higher protein content and lower carbohydrate levels compared to pea protein concentrate . It boasts excellent protein digestibility, comparable to casein, making it a high-quality nutritional choice .

Essential Amino Acids and BCAAs

Pea protein contains all nine essential amino acids crucial for protein synthesis in the body . While it’s low in methionine, which aids in digestion and DNA damage reduction, it should not be the sole protein source . Additionally, pea protein is rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which support muscle maintenance and growth .

Nutrient-Rich Profile

This protein powder is a good source of iron, providing 30% of the daily value per serving, which is vital for oxygen transport and overall organ function . It also offers 6% of the daily value for calcium, contributing to bone health and muscle contraction.

Considerations for Sodium Content

Although the formula has a slightly higher sodium content than average (220 milligrams or 10% of the daily value per serving), this may not be ideal for those on a low-sodium diet.

Versatile and Pure

Nutricost Organic Pea Protein’s unflavored option allows for easy mixing into any beverage of your choice. This vegan, non-GMO protein powder is produced in a GMP-compliant facility, ensuring that the manufacturing process adheres to FDA regulations for a high-quality, pure product.

Consistent Protein Content

Note that the iron, sodium, calcium, potassium, fiber, and overall calorie content may vary slightly by container size for the unflavored option. However, the protein content remains consistent at 20 grams per serving.

Nutricost Organic Pea Protein is a top-notch choice for those seeking a clean, organic, and reliable source of protein.

Why We Like Gainful Lose Weight Plant Based Protein Powder for Weight Loss

Gainful’s Lose Weight Plant Based Protein Powder stands out as our top pick for the best clean protein powder for weight loss, thanks to its high-protein, low-fat, and low-carb formula that is free of artificial additives.

This formula offers 24 grams of protein per serving, sourced from organic pea protein and organic brown rice protein. Each serving contains only 1.5 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fiber.

Combining pea and rice proteins provides a complete and balanced source of essential amino acids (EAAs). Pea protein is rich in lysine but low in methionine, while rice protein is the opposite. This combination ensures that you get all the necessary EAAs in your diet .

A study comparing the effectiveness of rice protein versus whey protein supplementation in men over eight weeks of resistance training found similar changes in body composition and performance with both protein sources, whether taken at a 24-gram or 48-gram dose .

Gainful’s formula also provides essential minerals: 3.3 milligrams of iron (20% of the daily value), 250 milligrams of phosphorus (20% of the daily value), 80 milligrams of calcium (6% of the daily value), and 60 milligrams of potassium (2% of the daily value).

The inclusion of green tea extract, although the exact amount is unspecified, adds a potential weight loss benefit. A study on 115 women found that a daily high dose (856.8 mg) of green tea extract over 12 weeks resulted in weight loss (approximately 2.4 pounds) and decreased total cholesterol .

The protein powder is unflavored but comes with eight “flavor boost” options, naturally sweetened with stevia extract and monk fruit extract: strawberry cream, Madagascar vanilla, rich chocolate, caffe mocha, cookies & cream, chocolate peanut butter, cinnamon toast, and sea salt caramel. Each flavor boost packet adds five to 10 calories from carbohydrates.

Our testers appreciated the customizable flavors and enjoyed the variety. However, they noted that the powder tends to remain clumpy when mixed in a shaker bottle.

Despite Gainful’s commitment to using “clean” ingredients, their protein powder is not third-party tested or made in a GMP-compliant facility.

Purchasing this product also grants you access to Gainful’s team of registered dietitians, providing personalized guidance for your nutrition needs.

Why We Like Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars as the Best Protein Bars

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars offer a convenient alternative to blending shakes, making it easier to increase your protein intake on the go. However, this convenience comes at a higher price point, with the only flavor, peanut butter chocolate chip, sold in a 12-pack at $3.33 per bar.

Transparent Labs provides high-quality protein from grass-fed cattle, offering an impressive amino acid profile that complements fitness and overall wellness. Unlike protein bars made with refined sugars and natural flavors, these bars use naturally sweet ingredients like tapioca syrup (from cassava root), honey, and dates. Transparent Labs explains every ingredient used in the bars on their website, maintaining their commitment to transparency.

Our testers noted the bars have a distinct peanut butter and chocolate taste, with real pieces of chocolate that melt in your mouth. If you typically find protein bars hard to stomach, consider giving these a try. They avoid the usual chalky texture and overly sweet aftertaste common in other brands, providing a soft and chewy texture with some dryness.

Each bar contains 16 grams of fat, 23 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of protein, along with 3 grams of fiber, which may support gut health. For those monitoring macros, it’s important to note that each bar also has 25% of the daily value of saturated fat, which the American Heart Association advises reducing to protect heart health. Additionally, the bars have a higher sodium content, at 12% of your daily value per bar. These factors make the bars better suited as a complement to a balanced diet rather than a regular staple.

It’s also worth noting that these bars contain common allergens and are not suitable for individuals with allergies to peanuts, eggs, or dairy.

Why We Like Sports Research Collagen Peptides as Best Collagen

Sports Research Collagen Peptides stands out as our top pick for clean collagen protein powder. Each serving offers 10 grams of protein and just 40 calories, with no artificial additives. Unlike many other protein powders that have extensive ingredient lists, this formula is straightforward, containing only cow-derived hydrolyzed collagen peptides, natural flavors, and natural sweeteners.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and integrity of bones, tendons, and cartilage. A comprehensive review in 2021 indicated that collagen supplementation may enhance muscle recovery, improve body composition, and reduce joint pain and enhance joint function, though it doesn’t significantly support muscle protein synthesis.

This formula is also low in sodium, containing just 3% of the daily value per serving, making it suitable for those on low-sodium diets. Our reviewers appreciated the smooth texture of this protein powder.

Sports Research Collagen Peptides comes in various sizes, ranging from 10 to 82 servings, depending on the chosen flavor. Flavor options include unflavored, dark chocolate, matcha green tea, vanilla, organic chocolate, and organic unflavored.

Additionally, this product is NSF Certified gluten-free, ensuring it is tested and verified to be free from gluten. It is also Informed Choice Certified, meaning it has been tested for banned substances, guaranteeing a safe product that meets its label claims.

Why we like Promix Nutrition Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder as best vegan

For those on a vegan diet, iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies can be a concern. Promix Nutrition Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder stands out as our top pick for clean vegan protein because it helps address these concerns while providing a high-quality protein source.

This protein powder delivers 25 grams of protein per serving from Canadian yellow peas, with zero fat and just 2 grams of carbohydrates. It’s also a rich source of iron, offering 23% of the daily value per serving, and provides 10% of the daily value of calcium and 3% of the daily value of potassium.

Promix goes a step further by including vitamin B12, which is often lacking in vegan diets. This makes it easier for those following a vegan lifestyle to meet their nutritional needs.

The powder contains all essential amino acids, crucial for protein synthesis, and 5.2 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which may aid in muscle recovery and growth. Although pea protein is low in methionine, making it less ideal as a sole protein source, it remains a strong addition to a balanced diet.

“Research has shown that individuals not consuming animal protein may require more protein to meet all essential amino acid needs,” says Mohr. “Adding a quality vegan protein powder, such as this one, can effectively boost protein intake.”

The unflavored option is the purest and least likely to contain contaminants like heavy metals. Promix also provides third-party testing results on their website, ensuring transparency and product safety.

For those monitoring sodium intake, this pea protein powder has half the sodium of Nutricost’s Organic Pea Protein, making it a better choice for a low-sodium diet.

Why We Like Naked Nutrition Goat Whey Protein Powder as the Best Goat Protein

Naked Nutrition Goat Whey Protein Powder stands out as the best clean goat protein powder thanks to its simple, one-ingredient formula: goat whey concentrate. Unlike whey protein isolate, which undergoes more processing, whey concentrate retains more of the natural fat and lactose. While this doesn’t necessarily make whey concentrate inferior, it’s worth noting that it typically has higher lactose and fat content compared to isolate.

Goat milk, though nutritionally similar to cow’s milk, is often cited for its superior digestibility, making it a better option for those who may have trouble with dairy from cows.

Naked Nutrition’s goat whey powder impresses with its balanced nutrient profile. Each two-scoop serving delivers 110 calories, 23 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and just 0.5 grams of fat, making it comparable to whey protein isolate in terms of protein content.

This product is a complete protein source, offering all essential amino acids (EAAs), including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which can help reduce muscle soreness after workouts—especially if your overall protein intake is lacking.

Naked Nutrition Goat Protein is also third-party tested and boasts a transparency ethos with “nothing to hide.” It is free from soy and gluten, and certified gluten-free, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Additionally, the company provides excellent customer service. They offer easy access via live chat and have been notably responsive, addressing inquiries promptly even outside regular business hours.

Why We Like Orgain Keto Collagen Protein Powder as the Best Keto Protein

For those following a keto diet, which emphasizes low carbs and higher fats, finding a clean protein powder that fits these criteria is essential. Orgain Keto Collagen Protein Powder stands out as a top choice due to its grass-fed bovine collagen and minimal ingredient list, featuring only six components and no additives.

This protein powder is ideal for keto enthusiasts who are also mindful of their calorie intake. With just 90 calories per scoop, it aligns well with keto goals. The fat content comes from medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which research suggests might help alleviate some symptoms associated with starting a keto diet.

Orgain Keto Collagen Protein Powder is allergen-friendly, being soy-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free. It also provides 25% of the daily value of iron per serving. However, it does have some limitations. Each serving contains only 10 grams of protein, which is lower than the typical 20 to 30 grams preferred by many protein powder users. This lower protein content is tailored to fit the keto 2:1 ratio, but it may not meet the needs of those looking for higher protein intake.

It’s important to note that while collagen is beneficial for supporting connective tissue health, it does not contribute significantly to protein synthesis or overall protein requirements. “Collagen is a less effective protein source for muscle protein synthesis compared to high-quality proteins like whey isolate,” says Mohr.

Priced around $2.10 per serving, Orgain Keto Collagen Protein Powder is reasonably priced, but with only 20 servings per container, it might run out quickly. Orgain offers a subscribe-and-save option for 15% off, which can be a great way to keep your supply stocked.

Why we like Cymbiotika Plant Protein as the best plant-based option

Cymbiotika Plant Protein stands out as the best clean plant-based protein powder due to its impressive blend of 20 grams of protein combined with organic ingredients, including greens, prebiotics, and probiotics. This protein powder also provides significant amounts of essential nutrients like fiber, iron, and vitamin E. Additionally, it features L-glutamine, which may support weight loss and reduce performance fatigue, potentially enhancing workout endurance. Alpha-GPC is included in small amounts to help maintain choline levels, which could benefit athletic performance and muscle protein synthesis.

Our testers appreciated the nutrient profile, with 130 calories, 10 grams of carbohydrates, and 2.5 grams of fat per serving. The formula offers 100% of the daily value for vitamins E and K and 25% of the daily value for iron. However, the sodium content is 17% of the recommended daily intake, which is something to watch if you’re monitoring sodium for heart health.

Mixability was generally good, although the powder has a slightly grainy texture and an unexpected earthy aftertaste, likely due to its range of raw greens, adaptogenic mushrooms, and fiber-rich ingredients.

A notable consideration is the use of proprietary blends, which group ingredients under one title on the supplement facts label, potentially obscuring the specific amounts of each ingredient. There was also no indication of third-party testing for this product.

Digestibility was mixed, with one tester experiencing gas and bloating the day after consumption, highlighting potential digestive sensitivities.

What is clean protein powder?

The term “clean protein powder” is somewhat subjective and lacks a strict definition, according to Alyssa Pacheco, RD, from The PCOS Nutritionist.

“Generally, it describes protein powders with simple, minimally processed ingredients, without the addition of fillers or artificial sweeteners,” she explained.

Benefits of Clean Protein Powder

Clean protein powders are designed to support muscle growth and recovery. They typically offer benefits like aiding muscle repair and supporting weight loss, due to their lower calorie and sugar content. Research suggests that protein powders from grass-fed sources may have higher levels of antioxidants and proteins compared to those from conventionally fed cows. (36)

How We Chose the Best Clean Protein Powder

Price

High-quality protein powders often come with a higher price tag. To accommodate various budgets, we provided the cost per serving for each protein powder on our list, ranging from $1.43 to $3.67 per serving, with an average around $2.00. Some brands offer discounts for subscriptions or first-time purchases. Since protein supplements are usually a long-term commitment, cost is an important consideration.

Protein per Serving

Most protein powders offer around 20 grams of protein per serving. Depending on individual fitness goals, some may require more or less protein, or a specific balance of carbs and protein. Our selections account for these needs, including options for those following a keto diet or focusing on collagen benefits, where total protein content is less critical than peptide amounts.

Ingredients

We favored protein powders with minimal and natural ingredients, avoiding artificial sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame, and opting for natural alternatives such as stevia and monk fruit. We also excluded products with fillers or thickeners, though ready-to-drink shakes may require stabilizers.

What to Look for in Clean Protein Powder

Protein Source

Choose a protein source based on your dietary needs. For those lactose-intolerant, lactose-free whey or plant-based proteins are suitable. Dairy-free individuals should opt for plant-based options. If you have digestive issues, look for proteins with added probiotics or digestive enzymes.

Fitness Goals

Align the protein powder with your fitness goals. For weight loss, select a low-calorie, high-protein powder. For muscle gain, a higher-calorie formula may be better. A balanced protein powder may suffice for general protein supplementation.

Cost

Since protein powders can be expensive and used daily, it’s important to find one that fits your budget, especially if you need to replace it regularly.

Taste

Taste is crucial for consistency. Brands offering sample packs or money-back guarantees can help you find a palatable option. If sampling isn’t possible, customer reviews can provide insights into flavor preferences.