The 7 Best Organic Protein Powders, Tested and Reviewed

Organic Protein Powders We Also Tested

While not a top pick for any category, we also tested these organic protein powders and think they are still worth highlighting.

Sunwarrior Classic Protein Powder: We like that this organic protein powder contains 20 grams of protein from fermented brown rice, and that it is independently verified for heavy metals and other potential contaminants. We tested the chocolate flavor, which has a strong artificial sweetness and aftertaste from the stevia. This powder does dissolve well in water, creating a thick and creamy texture without clumps that is smooth to drink.

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Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean: This protein powder contains a plant-based protein blend, with 21 grams of protein per serving. We like that this product is independently verified for purity and potency, with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) available for each batch. We love the taste of the vanilla chai flavor, which contains natural flavorings, as well as stevia and monk fruit for sweetness. It dissolves well with water in a shaker bottle, but it would also be a great choice to mix with a milk base of your choice. We chose not to include this product on our list because of the digestive enzyme blend it contains, which does not have sufficient scientific backing for regular use, and may not be suitable for all.

The Benefits of Organic Protein Powders

Organic protein powders vary in their composition depending on the product, and they are not inherently superior nutritionally compared to conventional protein powders. However, consuming organic productsreduces your exposure to synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Organic agriculture cultivates better soil quality and is better for biodiversity.

Protein powders (organic or not) can be particularly beneficial for the following people:

• Athletes or very active individuals: According to Chrissy Carroll, MPH, RD, LDN, ACSM-cPT, USAT Level I Triathlon Coach, and RRCA Certified Running Coach, protein powders can be useful for active individuals, particularly in the post-workout time frame. “Protein plays a role in muscle repair and recovery, and folks undergoing intense workouts or two-a-day workouts may benefit from eating something with protein (and carbohydrate) after their sweat session,” says Carroll.
• Those with dietary restrictions, such as vegans or vegetarians: “[Protein powders] can absolutely be beneficial for people who struggle to meet protein needs daily through food sources alone,” says Angie Asche MS, RD, CSSD. Those on a plant-based diet with limited protein options may find protein powders a quick and convenient way to take in protein.
• Those trying to lose weight: Carroll notes that a higher protein intake may be beneficial for people trying to lose weight, as protein helps to keep you fuller for longer. “If an individual is struggling to achieve a higher protein intake through food alone, protein powders can be a good adjunct strategy alongside a balanced diet,” says Carroll.

Our dietitians and experts note that protein powder can be a healthful addition to the diet but emphasize the importance of consuming a balanced diet incorporating various food-based sources of protein like chicken, fish, meat, dairy, soy, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

How We Select and Test Supplements

Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products.

In addition to our research, we tested 25 of the top protein powders in the Verywell Testing Lab to rate each product for taste, texture, smell, and value. We tested the products by mixing a serving of each powder into cold water in a shaker bottle, noting how long it took to dissolve (and if it dissolved completely), and then tasted the product, evaluating flavor, texture, and smell. We then combined these ratings with a nutrition and independent verification score from our nutrition editor to get an overall rating for each pick.

What to Look for in an Organic Protein Powder

Independent Verification

Public concern has been expressed about protein powder and heavy metal contamination. However, this is only a risk if the heavy metal levels exceed certain thresholds. Choosing an organic protein powder that has been independently verified helps ensure heavy metals do not exceed the FDA-established safety levels for contamination.

Studies have shown that consuming one to three servings of protein powder per day is unlikely to cause adverse health outcomes. It’s also important to understand that trace amounts of heavy metals are naturally found in many foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes.

Ingredients & Potential Interactions

It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient. Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking.

• Additives: Some organic protein powders include other ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, probiotics, digestive enzymes, herbal blends. and BCAAs. While some of these may be beneficial, they may not be suitable for all, particularly those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or with a preexisting medical condition.
• Potential Allergens: If you are lactose intolerant or have a milk allergy, avoid whey protein and opt for plant-based protein powders. Some protein powders can contain other food allergens, like nuts, or can be produced in a facility with other common allergens.
• Alternative Sweeteners: While artificial and other non-nutritive sweeteners can help reduce added sugar intake, they can have some potential downsides. These sweeteners have a more intense sweetness compared to regular sugar, which can cause increased sweet cravings, leading to eating more sugar later on. They may also impact the gut microbiome and cause gas and bloating in some. Non-nutritive sweeteners found in commercial protein powders are considered safe by the FDA, but their potential health impacts are still an emerging area of research, so some people may prefer to avoid them. In general, plant-derived artificial sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit appear to be better options compared to sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose.
• Medication Interactions: Whey protein may reduce the absorption of certain drugs, like Albenza, Fosamex, and certain antibiotics. Additionally, some protein powders may contain additives (like herbs, enzymes, and probiotics) that can interact with certain medications. If you are taking medications, check with your doctor before starting a protein powder regimen.

How Much Protein Do I Need?

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram (0.36 grams per pound) of body weight per day. However, research indicates that athletes engaging in intense training may benefit from ingesting anywhere from 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram (0.45 to 0.9 grams per pound) of body weight per day to maintain muscle mass. Although each athlete is different, higher intakes are generally recommended for shorter periods of intense training. A recent review found that most athletes benefit from a protein intake of around 1.6 grams per kilogram (0.72 grams per pound) per day.

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There is no set upper limit for protein intake. Some research indicates that healthy adults can consume as much as 2.0 to 3.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight without any negative side effects. However, those who consume excessive amounts of protein for a long period of time may experience digestive, renal, and vascular issues.

Consider how much protein you consume from food, and supplement with protein powder as needed to meet your individual needs.

Our Experts

We spoke with the following experts to get insight into who would best benefit from organic protein powder and their personal recommendations.

• Angie Asche MS, RD, CSSD author of “Fuel Your Body: How to Cook & Eat for Peak Performance”
• Chrissy Carroll, MPH, RD, LDN, ACSM-cPT, USAT Level I Triathlon Coach, and RRCA Certified Running Coach

Frequently Asked Questions

Will organic protein powder help me lose weight?

“For some people, protein powders may also be helpful during efforts to lose weight,” says Carroll. “A recent review concluded that higher protein intake may be beneficial in preserving lean muscle mass during periods of weight loss, particularly when combined with resistance training.” That said, weight loss also requires a well-balanced, healthy diet, exercise, and adequate sleep. Consuming protein powder, whether organic or not, is not necessary for weight loss, but it may be beneficial.

Does organic protein powder help you build muscle?

Organic protein powder can help you get enough protein to support muscle growth, especially when paired with resistance exercise. Most research suggests getting about 20-30 grams of protein after resistance exercise and 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight throughout the day can best support muscle growth.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Natalie Rizzo, MS, RD, is an NYC-based media Dietitian, Verywell Fit nutrition writer, national spokesperson, and owner of Greenletes, a successful plant-based sports nutrition blog and podcast.

Anne Cook Carroll, MS, RD, CDN is a Registered Dietitian with a master’s degree in clinical nutrition and a Verywell Fit nutrition writer. She works with patients on dietary and lifestyle modifications, incorporating the latest science on nutritional interventions. She also specializes in supplement research, analyzing quality, efficacy, safety, and optimal utilization of supplements to improve health outcomes.

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