Legumes are strong sources of protein, and pea (Pisum sativum L.), a popular legume, is no exception to this. Pea protein powders are made from dried yellow or green field peas which make them a good source of protein and amino acids.
Dried peas are popular in many cuisines and are commonly consumed for their unique taste and nutritive qualities. Made by isolating the protein content of peas, these powders can deliver potent doses of protein to provide good health benefits (1), (2).
Pea protein scores over whey protein as it is plant-based and contains all 9 essential amino acids as whey, not prone to induce allergies, and is suitable for everyone including vegans.
Supplements can be used when your daily intake of protein is inadequate and you need a protein that is free of lactose, soy, or animal products.
Pea protein powders are available in many brands and can be bought online without a prescription. Listed here are our top 6 pea protein powders in different categories, Explore them and choose the product that fits your needs the best.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall Pea Protein Supplement: Naked Nutrition Naked Pea
2. Best Budget Pea Protein Supplement: BulkSupplements Pea Protein Isolate Powder
3. Best Flavored Pea Protein Supplement: Now Sports Pea Protein
4. Best Pea Protein Blend: Sunwarrior-Warrior Blend Protein
5. Best Organic Pea Protein Supplement: Nutricost Organic Pea Protein
6. Best Fermented Pea Protein Supplement: Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein
Now let’s look at each of these Pea Protein supplements in detail to find out why they are considered the best in their categories.
1. Best Overall Pea Protein Supplement – Naked Nutrition Naked Pea
The brand reputation, ingredient quality, manufacturing processes, suitability, pricing, and certifications, are the primary factors that qualify a pea protein powder as the Overall Best among other brands.
About Naked Nutrition Naked Pea
Naked Nutrition Naked Pea is a top-quality supplement from one of the reliable brands in the industry. Formulated from yellow split peas to deliver pure protein, this product can support good muscle gain and weight loss for all.
An excellent alternative to whey, Naked Pea is easily absorbed by the body. The amino acids in the powder are complete and intact as Naked Nutrition used a mechanical process devoid of chemicals to extract the pea protein.
Naked Nutrition makes its Naked Pea from non-GMO peas sourced from US and Canadian farms. The product is manufactured at an FDA-approved, GMP-certified facility and is subject to third-party testing for quality assurance.
What it Contains:
Every serving of 2 scoops (30 g) has:
- Calories – 120
- Protein – 27 g
- Total Fat – 0.5 g
- Total Carbohydrates (sugar) – 2 g
The supplement also has Potassium – 100 mg, Calcium – 95 mg, Iron – 2.85 mg, Phosphorous – 75 mg, Magnesium – 23 mg, and zero cholesterol.
Every container of 1 LB or 454 g of Naked Pea can suffice for 15 days. The suggested dosage is 2 scoops totaling 30 g daily for receiving good health benefits.
The powder has no added flavors or colors and can be mixed into smoothies, shakes, or even while baking your favorite dishes. It can also be stacked along with Naked PB (powdered peanut butter) or Naked Rice to make healthier combos.
Naked Pea is a vegan protein powder that is free from soy, dairy and is certified gluten-free. With zero additives or artificial sweeteners, it is also tested for banned substances and heavy metal toxicity to rank as the best overall pea protein available.
The Pros:
- Nourishing 27 gs of protein per serving
- Two scoops a day for good health benefits
- No chemicals used in the protein extraction process
- Certified gluten-free and tested for banned substances
Summary: Naked Nutrition Naked Pea is a top-rated supplement with pure pea protein for many health benefits. With no additives or artificial ingredients, and third-party tested, it sure can be the overall best product in its category.
2. Best Budget Pea Protein Supplement – BulkSupplements Pea Protein Isolate Powder
Supplements with exorbitant prices do not find regular buyers, and very low-cost ones create doubts about the efficiency of the product. Reputed brands with less manufacturing costs can offer affordable pricing as well as top quality products for the customer.
About BulkSupplements Pea Protein Isolate Powder
BulkSupplements Pea Protein Isolate Powder is a well-known dietary supplement with the goodness of pea protein extracts that can support muscle growth as well as muscle recovery after physical training routines.
With pea protein isolates in every scoop, this supplement with adequate protein and other nutrients can meet up to 42% of your daily protein requirement.
BulkSupplements sources the ingredients from China. It then produces and packages it in an FDA inspected cGMP facility in the USA. Independent third-party validation assures top quality and safety in consumption.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 4 tbsp provides:
- Protein – 21 g
- Total Fat – 1 g
- Total Carbohydrate – <2 g
- Sodium – 180 mg
- Iron – 7 mg
Pea Protein Isolate Powder is available in different quantities ranging from 100 g to 5 Kilos. A 100 g pack can provide 3 servings and users can buy in bulk to save more on this cost-effective product.
The recommended dosage is 4 tablespoons or 30 g of powder as a daily dose for gaining muscle or to promote faster recovery post-workout. The powder is unflavored and hence works great for mixing into porridges, soups, and smoothies.
BulkSupplements uses only pure pea protein extracts and can provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the product, on request. The supplement is tested for the presence of heavy metals, microbial contamination, and purity before final distribution making it a budget-friendly and safe product.
The Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- Available in different quantities
- Third-party tested
- Free of heavy metals and other contaminants
Summary: BulkSupplements Pea Protein Isolate Powder is an affordable supplement with concentrated pea protein extracts. Free from contaminants and third-party tests, it can support muscle growth and recovery effectively.
3. Best Flavored Pea Protein Supplement – Now Sports Pea Protein
Flavored protein powders present a better choice for those who need that extra addition of protein in a convenient and delectable manner. Natural flavors, colors, and sweeteners make flavored pea protein powders safe and healthier.
About Now Sports Pea Protein
Now Sports Pea Protein is a high-quality dietary supplement filled with the goodness of pea protein to support athletes and sportspersons with their fitness goals.
A vegetarian alternative, this supplement can help everyone in bridging protein deficiencies. It is highly suitable for vegan athletes who do not use dairy or animal-based products but require additional protein post-workouts to recover from muscle strains or damage.
Now Foods, a family-owned business, has a reputation for its sports-oriented supplements since they are certified by 2 global quality assurance programs, Informed Choice and Informed Sport. Made from non-GMO peas, it is produced and packaged in an NPA A-rated GMP-certified facility in the USA.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 level scoop of 44 g consists of:
- Protein – 24 g
- Total fat – 2.5 g
- Total Carbohydrate – 9 g
- Dietary Fiber – 2 g
- Total sugar including added sugars – 2 g
- Xylitol – 3 g
- Sodium – 570 mg
- Iron – 8 mg
- Potassium – 322 mg
- Calcium – 40 mg
Now Sports Pea Protein contains cocoa powder for natural color and flavor and organic stevia extracts and xylitol as natural sweeteners. Every scoop has over 4,200 mg of BCAAs necessary for muscle support.
Packaged in 2 Lb containers, this supplement is formulated to provide 21 servings of 44 g each. The manufacturer suggests taking one level scoop of the powder and mixing in 10 oz cold water for a shake or with other beverages of one’s choice.
Now Sports Pea Protein is a Vegan, Kosher dietary supplement and does not contain soy or dairy. It has been tested for banned substances and this rich creamy chocolate-flavored protein powder is extremely safe for consumption.
The Pros:
- Delicious chocolate flavor for easy consumption
- Provides 24 g protein per serving
- No soy or dairy
- Certified by Informed Sport quality assurance program
Summary: Now Sports Pea Protein is a quality supplement filled with chocolate-flavored pea protein. Free of soy and dairy and tested for banned substances, this product assures muscle support and good health for sportspersons always.
4. Best Pea Protein Blend – Sunwarrior-Warrior Blend Protein
Pea protein blends contain more than just pea protein to provide added benefits. The multiple ingredients can help make the supplement more powerful and nutritious.
About Sunwarrior-Warrior Blend Protein
Sunwarrior-Warrior Blend Protein is a popular dietary supplement with multiple ingredients for additional protein and other nutrients required by people with an active lifestyle.
Loaded with a powerful combination of natural, organic ingredients, this vegan supplement can help gain strong muscles and lend support to achieve desired fitness goals.
Made in a certified GMP facility in the USA, Sunwarrior uses certified organic, non-GMO ingredients in its Warrior Blend Protein powder to make it safe and healthy. The tub containing the powder is also recyclable, making it an environment-friendly product.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 and 1.5 scoop holds:
- Calories – 90, 130
- Protein – 16 g, 24 g
- Total fat – 2.5 g, 3.5 g
- Total Carbohydrate – 5 g, 8 g
- Sodium – 372 mg, 558 mg
- Iron – 6 mg, 9 mg
- Calcium – 27 mg, 41 mg
- Potassium – 77 mg, 115 mg
The proprietary blend has fermented pea protein, goji berry, and hemp as the primary ingredients. The addition of MCTs ensures fat-burning and adequate energy, while stevia provides the natural sweetness to make it palatable.
Sunwarrior-Warrior Blend Protein is available in tubs of 375 g providing 10-15 servings and 750 g that can provide between 20-30 servings.
The recommended dosage is 1-1.5 scoops of the powder mixed in 10-16 oz of water or your favorite beverage for consumption. Free from gluten, soy, dairy, and added sugar, the berry flavor and color are natural making it a healthy protein supplement.
The Pros:
- Powerful proprietary blend from plant sources
- USDA Organic Certified ingredients
- Natural berry flavor
- Free from soy, gluten, dairy, and added sugars
Summary: Sunwarrior-Warrior Blend Protein is a proprietary blend with plant-based ingredients to provide protein and other nutrients. Free from added sugars, this product aids in strong physical health for active people.
5. Best Organic Pea Protein Supplement – Nutricost Organic Pea Protein
Organic supplements have taken the supplement industry by storm. Organically produced ingredients without the use of pesticides or hormones ensure safety, purity, and overall well-being.
About Nutricost Organic Pea Protein
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein is a top-quality supplement with nourishing pea protein powder to fulfill protein requirements that may arise with age, diet deficiencies, or that extra protein that athletes might require for being physically active.
Made with organic pea protein, this supplement is a great alternative to whey protein and suits everyone including vegans.
Nutricost, based in Utah, USA, makes its Organic Pea Protein in an FDA registered GMP facility. The peas are USDA Organic and certified by CCOF.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 scoop (24 g) offers:
- Protein – 20 g
- Total Fat – 1.5 g
- Total Carbohydrate – 1 g
- Dietary Fiber – 1 g
- Sodium – 300 mg
- Iron – 5 mg
- Calcium – 53 mg
Available in options of 2 LB and 5 LB containers, users can get 38 servings and 95 servings respectively. A scoop for easy measurement is also included with the product.
The manufacturer’s recommended dosage is 1 scoop (24 g) mixed in 8-12 oz of water or any other beverages for consumption. Since it is unflavored, it blends well into beverages, soups, etc. easily.
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein contains only pure organic pea protein isolates that have no GMOs. It is vegan-friendly and free from gluten too. Subject to third-party testing, this product ensures safety and health all the way.
The Pros:
- Certified Organic by CCOF and USDA
- Two purchase options of 2 LB and 5 LB containers with scoop
- Unflavored powder that dissolves easily
- Non-GMO and free from gluten
Summary: Nutricost Organic Pea Protein is an ideal pea protein supplement with 100% organic protein isolates from peas. Free from gluten and added sugars, this product can help fill protein gaps in diets in an efficient manner.
6. Best Fermented Pea Protein Supplement – Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein
Pea protein falls into the legume category. Increased consumption of legumes can lead to digestive issues. Fermentation of legumes is a natural process that can eliminate such problems.
Scientific studies show that fermentation can enhance the nutritive aspects of legumes. They can improve protein digestibility too as complex nutrients are broken down into simple ones during a fermentation process. This also helps in the better release of beneficial peptides and amino acids for increased health benefits (3).
About Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein
Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein is a beneficial dietary supplement that contains fermented pea protein to amplify the protein content your body requires for good physical health.
The pea protein is fermented naturally without any use of chemicals which makes it easy on the digestive system. The fermentation process makes the pea protein more bioavailable for lasting health benefits.
Nutrasumma sources its peas from Canada, processes them in an FDA-approved facility in China, and then does the testing and packaging in the USA. The product is tested at raw material and finished stages for GMOs, heavy metals, etc., to ensure complete purity and safety.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 scoop (25.5 g) gives:
- Calories – 100
- Protein – 20 g
- Total Fat – 2 g
- Saturated Fat – 0.5 g
- Total Carbohydrates (sugar) – 3 g
- Dietary Fiber – 1 g
- Iron – 7 mg
- Calcium – 43 mg
Consumers can purchase Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein in packs of 1.12 lbs to get 20 servings or 2.14 lbs to get 38 servings.
The suggested daily dose is 1 scoop mixed in water or any favorite beverage. This unflavored powder is suitable for baking too. Flavored options of vanilla and chocolate are available, where the calorie and sugar content may be slightly upwards.
Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein has no other ingredient and is vegan friendly. It does not contain any artificial ingredients and is free from gluten, soy, and dairy.
The Pros:
- Naturally fermented pea protein
- High bioavailability
- Can be mixed into water, beverages, or used in baking
- No artificial ingredients or added sugars
Summary: Nutrasumma Fermented Pea Protein is a top-quality supplement loaded with pea protein goodness. Free from artificial ingredients and sugars, the versatility and high digestibility makes this product great for maintaining physical well-being.
Dosage for Pea Protein Powders
Pea protein powders are vegan, rich in amino acids, and studies prove that plant-based protein provides adequate nutrition as much as animal proteins (4).
Most of these supplement powders aim to offer protein doses that are acceptable and fall into the RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) limits.
The RDA of protein is established at 0.8 g/ per kg for a healthy adult which would mean 46 – 56 g a day for women and men. Those requiring more for lean muscle gain or physical activities may increase their protein intake up to 1.6 g depending on physical activity (5).
Based on this data, pea protein powders normally offer protein quantities ranging between 16 g to 30 g taken once or split into two doses daily. Individuals can check with a practitioner regarding the appropriate dosage to achieve desired benefits.
The inclusion of pea protein powders in sufficient doses and combined with a daily protein intake from food can help prevent protein deficiencies and support physical good health in adults.
Summary: Pea protein powders are formulated to deliver protein doses of 16 g to 30 g. Appropriate doses of pea protein supplements recommended by a practitioner can bridge diet deficiencies and support physical fitness.
How to Select the Right Pea Protein Powder
Pea protein powders are available either as pure pea protein powders or as a blend with other plant-based ingredients. With many products available, choosing a good pea protein powder can be a confusing task.
Here are some guidelines you can follow in choosing the right supplement:
- Requirements: The best way to select is to base it on your requirement. Choose pure pea powder for an effective dose of protein, sugar-free or low-carb powders for weight loss, and a blend of added nutrients for sports or building muscle mass.
- Allergen-free: Pea protein is considered hypoallergenic, meaning it is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. If using a blended powder, check that the other plant-based ingredients also do not cause allergies. Always read the product label to check for allergen information and to avoid undesirable reactions.
- Added Ingredients: Pea protein blends may contain other plant-based ingredients such as brown rice, hemp, berries, or amino acids especially methionine, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are beneficial. One only needs to ensure that added nutrients are within regulated daily limits to avoid overdosing.
- Added Sugars: Maltodextrins, cane sugar, monk fruits, etc are common additions in pea protein powders to make it more palatable. While a gram or so is acceptable, more of it can increase the glycemic load and lead to fat accumulation which is unhealthy. Hence, low carb or zero sugar would make great choices if you are diabetic or looking for weight loss.
- Artificial Ingredients: Protein supplements may contain artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors, and pea protein is no exception. Choosing unflavored versions or ensuring the products contain only natural substances for taste and color can ensure good health.
- Fillers/preservatives: Preservatives are added to keep microorganisms outs and for longer shelf life. Fillers are used as a cheaper alternative to bulk up powder supplements. Both may be harmful in the long run and bring down the purity and effectiveness of the product.
Summary: Choosing the right pea protein supplement can be a difficult task. Keeping pointers such as need, artificial ingredients, sugars, can make it easier to choose the right supplement.
Risks and Side Effects in Using Pea Protein Powders
Pea protein powders are plant-based and hence generally well-tolerated by most people. Side-effects are minimal or rare but can occur in some individuals.
Digestive issues such as bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea are some of the few known side effects. Since pea protein powders have a higher concentration, starting with smaller doses to allow your body to accept that extra protein may help minimize digestive problems.
Individuals allergic to soy and other legumes are advised caution in using pea protein powders to avoid adverse reactions.
Pea protein contains purines which are organic compounds that get converted into uric acid in the body. Purines are natural and essential, but excess amounts can be harmful. Hence, individuals with reduced kidney functions may consult a practitioner before using pea protein powders.
Summary: Pea protein is generally considered safe for use. Minor digestive troubles can initially occur with use. People with kidney issues or prone to legume allergy can check with a practitioner before using these supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do I need to use a pea protein powder?
Pea protein powder is a healthy addition to one’s daily diet and here are a few reasons to use it:
- Use pea protein powders if the protein you get from your daily diet is inadequate.
- Athletes and sportspersons can benefit from using pea protein as they require larger amounts of protein.
- If you want to lose weight, including more protein helps with weight loss as it keeps you full for a longer time.
- Pea protein is a great alternative for those who are sensitive to lactose, dairy or do not consume animal proteins.
Is pea protein powder suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Vegans are those who refrain from using any animal-based products such as dairy. Since pea protein and even the blended versions contain plant-based ingredients, vegans can enjoy the same benefits that one gets from using whey.
What is the difference between pea protein and whey?
Whey protein is derived from milk. Hence, it is not suitable for individuals who have lactose intolerance or are allergic to dairy. Pea protein is plant-based, free of allergens, and completely safe.
Though both whey and pea protein powders contain all 9 essential amino acids, pea protein is known to contain three times the L-arginine present in whey, which is useful to induce weight loss, build more muscle mass, and maintain cardiovascular health (6).
The Final Note
Pea protein powder is an excellent vegetarian option to get those additional proteins one may need to build and maintain good physical health. Pea protein powders are hypoallergenic, and being plant-based, it is ideal for vegans.
Pea isolates have all 9 essential amino acids and more arginine than whey protein. Pea protein blends are popular and may contain other plant-based ingredients that increase the nutritive value for better benefits.
Side effects are minimal and can be avoided by consulting a practitioner for the correct dosage and suitability. But, keep in mind that a pea protein supplement cannot act as meal replacements. They should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet to make your nutrition complete and healthy.