Written by Gaby McPherson, MS, RDN, LDN
Slapping a “clean” badge of approval on a product may seem impressive, but what does it actually mean? By our standards, the term “clean” indicates there are minimal ingredients, zero artificial ingredients or sweeteners such as sucralose, and no fillers or thickeners like gums (with the exception of ready-to-drink shakes). This is especially important when it comes to the items you rely on for your health and wellbeing, like the best clean protein powder.
Protein comes from a variety of different animal and plant sources. If you want to lose fat but build muscle while intermittent fasting or calorie counting, whey protein isolate powder is the gold standard. If you’re following a gluten-free or vegan diet, or allergic to dairy, then plant protein may be a better choice.
To help you narrow down which is the best protein powder for you, our team tested dozens of options, evaluating them for price, ingredients, protein source, mixability, nutrition, taste, side effects and customer reviews.
Editor’s choice
The Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate offers a clean, protein-packed mix with less lactose and no sugar. This powder’s nutrient profile isn’t limited to just protein, either. It’s also rich in calcium, iron, and potassium, making it our team’s top pick for best clean protein powder.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best clean protein powder
- Best whey: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
- Best casein: Legion Casein+
- Best for weight loss: Gainful Lose Weight Plant Based Protein Powder
- Best organic: Nutricost Organic Pea Protein
- Best keto: Sports Research Collagen Peptides
- Best vanilla: Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean
- Best vegan: Promix Nutrition Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder
- Best tasting: Ascent Whey Protein Vanilla Bean
- Best plant-based: Cymbiotika Plant Protein
- Best for muscle gain: Vital Proteins Vital Performance Protein Powder
Compare clean protein powders
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| Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate | Legion Casein+ | Gainful Lose Weight Plant Based Protein Powder | Nutricost Organic Pea Protein | Sports Research Collagen Peptides | Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean | Promix Nutrition Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder | Ascent Whey Protein Vanilla Bean | Cymbiotika Plant Protein | Vital Proteins Vital Performance Protein Powder | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Servings | 30 | 30 | 14 | 38 or 95 | 10-82 | 20 servigngs | 38 | 29 | 24 | 21 |
| Cost per serving | $2.00 | $2.00 | $3.21 | $0.47-$0.65 | $0.87-$1.30 | $2.12 | $1.04 | $1.16–$1.70 | $3.67 | $1.43 |
| Flavor options | 15 | 4 | 8 | 1 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 7 | 1 | 4 |
| Protein source | Whey protein isolate | Casein | Organic pea protein and organic brown rice protein | Organic pea protein isolate | Hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides | Organic Pea & Rice Protein | Organic Canadian yellow pea protein isolate | Whey Protein Isolate Blend | Hemp, spirulina, and pea protein | Bovine collagen and milk protein isolate |
| Third-party tested | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Best clean whey protein powder: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Key product features
What you should know
At 28 grams of protein per serving, the Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate provides the highest protein per serving on our list, with no additional additives or fillers.
- Our testers found no issues with product mixing.
- Each serving costs about $2, which is on the more expensive end of the market.
- This protein powder is best for those focusing on building muscle, shedding fat, and post-workout recovery.
- This whey protein isolate contains highly absorbable protein. (1)
Best clean casein protein powder: Legion Casein+
Key product features
What you should know
The Legion Casein+ nutrition label provides one of the highest grams of protein per serving we reviewed, from ingredients we trust.
- Casein is thick in texture and may take extra effort (or liquid) to mix.
- At about $2.00 per serving, Legion’s Casein+ protein powder costs right around average compared to others on the market.
- Might be a good choice for those who workout in the evenings, since data suggests a serving of casein protein in the evening may help with recovery and growth. (4)
- Legion Athletics offers great customer service and refund policies.
Best clean protein powder for weight loss: Gainful Lose Weight Plant Based Protein Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Gainful Lose Weight Plant Based Protein Powder is a natural, unflavored option with a high-protein, low-carb formula oriented to helping promote weight loss.
- This product comes unflavored, but you can choose to add one of eight flavor “boosts”—two of which come with your purchase.
- Gainful Protein Powder costs above average, at $3.21 per serving, and only contains 14 servings total.
- Our testers enjoyed the taste and liked that they could customize the flavor, though they noted the powder didn’t blend well in a shaker bottle.
Best clean organic protein powder: Nutricost Organic Pea Protein
Key product features
What you should know
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein contains 20 grams of protein and absolutely no additives. Here’s what else you should know before purchasing it.
- This product only comes in an unflavored option, meaning you can easily mix it with whichever beverage you’d like.
- You’ll spend only $0.47 to $0.65 per serving, depending on the size of the container purchased, making it the most affordable protein powder featured here.
- This is a great option for those following a vegan diet or those with an allergy or intolerance to dairy, soy, or egg.
Best clean keto protein powder: Sports Research Collagen Peptides
Key product features
What you should know
Sports Research Collagen Peptides contains 10 grams of protein and only one ingredient: hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides. Here’s what else you should know before purchasing it.
- This product only comes in an unflavored option, meaning you can easily mix it with whichever beverage you’d like.
- You’ll spend less per serving than average, from $0.87 to $1.30, but you’ll also get a lower amount of protein.
- May be good for those who are endurance athletes or experience joint pain.
Best clean vanilla protein powder: Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean Vanilla
Key product features
What you should know
Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean delivers 21 grams of protein from organic pea and rice proteins, providing a clean, easily digestible source of plant-based nutrition. Its organic vanilla flavor is derived from natural sources, offering a smooth and enjoyable taste without any artificial additives or sweeteners.
- The plant-based protein powder features an added boost of antioxidants from its Superfood & Greens blend, which includes organic acai, blueberry, broccoli, and kale, delivering a more comprehensive nutritional profile.
- At about $2.12 per serving, it is slightly more expensive than some other options, but the high-quality ingredients and certifications justify the cost. It’s also third-party tested, ensuring that you’re getting a product that meets the highest quality and safety standards.
- This powder is also USDA Organic, non-GMO, soy-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and completely vegan, making it ideal for those with specific dietary preferences or allergies.
Best clean vegan protein powder: Promix Nutrition Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Completely free of additives, Orgain Keto Collagen Protein Powder supplies 10 grams of protein in each 90-calorie scoop.
- This is an excellent option for people following a keto diet.
- At $2.10 per serving, this costs slightly above average compared to other protein powders on the market.
- It’s naturally sweetened with stevia extract.
Best tasting clean protein powder: Ascent Whey Protein Vanilla Bean
Key product features
What you should know
Ascent Whey Protein Vanilla Bean comes from native whey protein, which is less processed and contains more leucine, one of the most critical amino acid for muscle building. (25)
- Our product tester noted that this protein only took a few seconds to dissolve after he mixed it in his shaker cup, and left no sludge at the bottom. Although he is not usually a fan of vanilla-flavored products, he enjoyed Ascent’s vanilla bean protein powder.
- Priced at up to $1.70 per serving, with price ranging from size and flavor, this protein powder is priced competitively compared to other options on the market.
- Ascent Native Whey has multiple size options on Amazon: two pounds, four pounds, and 25 servings. Some flavors even come in single-size packets, so you can test them out before you commit to a full tub.
Best clean plant-based protein powder: Cymbiotika Plant Protein
Key product features
What you should know
Cymbiotika’s formula supplies 20 grams of protein from organic hemp, organic spirulina, and organic pea protein.
- Our testers found the initial flavor to be smooth, but followed by an earthy aftertaste.
- It’s more expensive than average, at $3.67 per serving.
- It’s good for those who want more than protein, but plant nutrients and digestive support too.
- It provides fiber, digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics to support gut health.
- The formula is made up of proprietary blends.
Best clean protein powder for muscle gain: Vital Proteins Vital Performance Protein Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Vital Proteins stands out above the rest thanks to an ingredient list that provides 25 grams of protein without any unnecessary fillers.
- At about $1.43 per serving, Vital Proteins is a more affordable option than many others on the market.
- This is best for people looking to build muscle and promote healthy tendons, bones, and joints.
- For those looking for an energy boost, the cold brew coffee flavor has 100mg of caffeine.
How we score clean protein powder
Finding the right supplement that meets health goals and delivers on promised claims requires time and research. On top of that, you need to consider product safety and price.
Dedicated to helping you find the best clean protein powder, we do the leg work for you. Our team tested, evaluated, and fact-checked dozens of protein powders on the market, taking many key factors into consideration, including effectiveness, quality, safety, and price, looking for supplements that rank high in several key areas to create our list of recommendations. Learn more about our whey protein powder scoring methodology and plant-based protein powder methodology here.
We used the following criteria to score each protein powder:
Testing criteria
Protein source—40%
The protein source is important because it affects the product’s digestibility, nutrient profile, and environmental impact. We consider the origin of the protein to ensure it meets vegan standards and provides a high-quality, sustainable option.
Here’s what we look for:
- Whey
- Casein
- Soy
- Pea
- Brown rice
- Hemp
- lentil
- Chia
- Pumpkin Seed
- Blend
Complete protein—20%
Whether the protein is complete is crucial for determining if it provides all nine essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and overall health. We consider this to ensure that the product can serve as a reliable, sole protein source without requiring additional supplementation.
Macronutrient calories per serving—15%
The balance of macronutrients per serving is important for managing energy levels, weight, and overall nutrition. We consider these calories to evaluate if the product supports specific dietary goals, such as high-protein or low-carb diets.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Calories from protein
- Calories from carbs
- Calories from fats
Total protein per serving—15%
The amount of protein per serving is a key factor in determining the product’s effectiveness in meeting daily protein needs.
Our factors in this rating include:
- 20 grams of protein or less per serving
- 21 to 30 grams of protein per serving
- Over 30 grams of protein per serving
Price per gram of protein—5%
Understanding the cost efficiency is important for those who want to manage their budget while meeting their nutritional needs. We consider the price per gram of protein to compare the value of different products.
These are the ranges we consider:
- $0.30 to $0.50 per gram
- $0.60 to $0.80 per gram
- $0.90+ per gram
Sweeteners—5%
Sweeteners play a significant role in the taste, caloric content, and health impact of the product. We consider the type and amount of sweeteners used to evaluate their impact on flavor, their suitability for low-sugar diets, and any potential health implications.
Here are the common ones we evaluate:
- Sugar
- Dextrose
- Honey, agave
- Stevia
- Maltodextrin
- Erythritol
- Monk fruit
- Sucralose
- Aspartame
- Xylitol, acesulfame
About our chemical lab analysis
Our dedicated team of product testers have hands-on experience using the protein powders we evaluate. In this article, we incorporate their insightful feedback, including both the positive and less favorable aspects of each supplement. However, our commitment to transparency doesn’t end there.
To guarantee the products we recommend are from reputable brands adhering to industry best practices for quality and safety, we took the extra step of subjecting them to independent, third-party testing through ISO 17025 accredited lab Ellipse Analytics. Many of the products underwent thorough analysis for safety, purity, and ingredient accuracy. The testing confirms the accuracy of ingredient amounts and ensures the absence of harmful levels of contaminants, pesticides, heavy metals, bisphenols, and phthalates.
The results of these assessments are incorporated into the individual reviews.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
What is clean protein powder?
A clean protein powder is a subjective term that doesn’t have a true definition, according to Alyssa Pacheco, RD, from The PCOS Nutritionist Alyssa.
“Typically, it refers to protein powders that have simple, minimally processed ingredients and don’t use “extra” ingredients like fillers and artificial sweeteners,” she said.
Benefits of clean protein powder
Clean protein powders help you build lean muscle during workouts and repair muscle during recovery rest days. These protein powders may also aid in weight loss because they tend to have less extra calories and sugars. Studies show that grass-fed cows, which are generally where clean protein powder comes from, produce milk higher in antioxidants and proteins than cows with other diets. (34)
How we chose the best clean protein powder
Price
High-quality protein powders have a reputation for being high-ticket. Because budget is a concern for many, we’ve outlined the protein powder’s cost per serving for each category. In our list, protein powders range between $1.43 to $3.67 per serving; therefore, many protein powders cost around $2.00 on average. Some companies offer discounts when you subscribe or sign up for the first time. But price is something important to consider, because more often than not, you’re looking for a protein supplement for the long-haul.
Protein per serving
On average, protein powders pack around 20 grams of protein per serving. Some may want more protein while others might look for a different balance of carbohydrates to protein, depending on their overall goal. That’s why protein per serving played into our top choices. While one of our selections contains less than 20 grams of protein, it is specific to those following a keto diet who have to closely monitor protein intake. Also, because it is collagen, which is supplemented to deliver collagen peptides, total protein content is less important than how much peptides are provided.
Ingredients
We prioritized brands making formulas with the fewest ingredients possible, or formulas with natural ingredients such as whole foods. Artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, aspartame, and sugar alcohols are non-nutritive but common in protein powder supplements on the market. Here, we’ve only included those with natural sweeteners such as stevia and monk fruit. We also limited our selection to those without any fillers or thickeners like gums; however ready-to-drink shakes, such as the Slate Milk High Protein Shake, require a gum to stabilize the mixture of ingredients.
What to look for in clean protein powder
The growing number of available protein powders can be overwhelming. But, the truth is, choosing the best clean protein powder comes down to several factors: the protein source, your fitness goals, cost, and taste.
Protein source
Your dietary needs drive what source of protein is best for you. If you’re lactose intolerant, you could choose either a lactose-free whey protein or a plant-based protein. However, if you’re following a dairy-free diet, your options are limited to plant-based proteins only. Moreover, if you’re a person living with digestive issues, you may consider options that include probiotics and/or digestive enzymes to help relieve gas and stomach pain.
Fitness goals
Whether you want to lose weight and preserve muscle mass, or you’re training to bulk up, you’ll be focused on the nutrition a certain protein powder provides. For weight loss and retaining muscle, you may seek a lower calorie, high protein option. However, if you’re wanting to add mass, you might be after a higher calorie formula. A moderate amount of calories and protein in a supplement may be fit for you if you are simply trying to increase your protein intake while exercising.
Cost
Protein powders can get costly, and if you’re supplementing daily, you may be replacing your container every month. That said, you want to make sure your protein choice fits your monthly budget.
Taste
Flavors matter when it comes to protein because if it doesn’t taste good, you’re not going to drink it. Some brands make sample packs so you can try out their products without buying a full tub, while others will let you have a refund solely from being dissatisfied with the taste. If sampling the protein powder beforehand isn’t possible, customer reviews can be helpful in guiding your path to the best tasting protein powders.
Other clean protein powders we reviewed
During our evaluation of clean protein powders, we also assessed the following. While they didn’t make our list, they may be good options for some consumers.
- Momentous Essential Grass-Fed Whey Protein: At $2.70 per serving, this protein powder is a little pricier than some of the other supplements we tried and the non-flavored one clumped up a bit in the shaker bottle.
- Naked Micellar Casein: We like that this clean protein powder only contains one ingredient, but the lactose in casein is high, which, for people with lactose sensitivities may experience G.I. upset. Our team put together a full Naked protein review for more insights.
- Gainful Vegan: This protein powder isn’t third-party tested, which gives us pause. You’re also likely to find another protein powder for less than $3 per serving.
- Huel Black Edition: We like being able to try protein powders without having to sign up for a subscription, which is why Huel’s Black Edition didn’t make the cut. Additionally, our tester noted a slight aftertaste from this plant-based protein powder.
FAQs
What is the cleanest form of protein powder?
The “cleanest” form of protein powder is one with minimal ingredients that does not contain artificial colors, flavors, additives, or sugars. The label should say the product has been third-party tested to ensure only the ingredients in the nutrition list are in there.
How do I know if my protein powder is clean?
When looking for a clean protein powder, it all comes down to what’s on the nutrition label. Third-party testing and minimal ingredients are the main things you’ll want to assess. If you’re still not sure, reach out to your doctor or a licensed nutritionist or dietitian.
How do I choose a clean protein powder?
Choosing a clean protein powder depends on your goals. If you want to gain lean muscle, you’ll want to prioritize an option that’s high in protein. If you are looking to lose weight, a fiber-rich protein powder may be more of what you’re looking for.
Choosing a clean protein powder depends on your goals. If you want to gain lean muscle, you’ll want to prioritize an option that’s high in protein. If you are looking to lose weight, a fiber-rich protein powder may be more of what you’re looking for.
After careful consideration of quality, nutritional value, protein content, and available flavor options, our top pick is Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate. Perfect for people on the path to building lean muscle and gaining strength, the protein powder is jam-packed with 28 grams of protein per serving. Moreover, it provides low amounts of fats and carbs, and provides just 120–150 calories per scoop. Sourced from grass-fed cows on hormone- and antibiotic-free American farms, its clean blend has no gluten, added sugars, or artificial flavors. Lastly, you’ll have plenty of flavors to entice your taste buds given their selection of 15 appealing flavors.
Is whey or plant protein better?
The right answer depends on your lifestyle and goals. If you can tolerate dairy and are looking to build muscle, then whey protein would benefit you. If you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, or have a dairy allergy, then your best choice would be plant protein.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD
Dr. Christopher Mohr is an internationally recognized subject matter expert and speaker and performance coach. He works closely with some of the largest corporations in the world including Deloitte, Delta Airlines, Johnson & Johnson, and more to help busy executives develop the energy to thrive personally and professionally. Chris was a member of the Men’s Health Magazine advisory board for 10 years, co-authored a NY Times Bestseller with LL Cool J, called LL Cool J’s Platinum Workout, and worked as the sports nutritionist for the Cincinnati Bengals and select WWE wrestlers.
Jennifer Roper, Ph.D., CSCS
Dr. Jen Roper is an associate professor of Health and Human Sciences at Loyola Marymount University. She received her Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science in 2015 from the University of New Mexico, with a specialization in Exercise Science and Biomechanics. She has been a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist from the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 2014.
Robert Wildman, Ph.D., RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN
Dr Robert Wildman (“Dr Rob”) is a globally renowned exercise, fitness, and nutrition expert who speaks around the world on exercise and sport nutrition, and continues to work with professional and elite athletes to achieve their highest level of performance as well as health and fitness. Rob received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, earned his M.S. from Florida State University, and earned his B.S. from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a registered and licensed dietitian.
Lily Moe
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is an editor and writer who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. These days, you can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Gaby McPherson
MS, RDN, LDN
About Author
Gaby McPherson, MS, RDN, LDN, is a freelance health and nutrition writer. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics and a master’s degree in medical dietetics with a pediatric nutrition emphasis. She’s spent several years educating and helping families boost their nutrition in practical, simple, and realistic ways.
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