Understanding what we put on our plate: How to Evaluate the Value of Vegan Protein Powders

Are you considering adding vegan protein powder to your diet but feeling overwhelmed by the many options available? Don't worry; you're not alone! With the growing popularity of plant-based diets, the market for vegan protein powders has expanded significantly. To make an informed choice, it's crucial to understand protein quality and how to assess the value of these products. 

In this article, we'll dive into the different measures of protein quality and guide you on how to evaluate vegan protein powders based on these criteria.

The Importance of Protein Quality

Before we jump into evaluating vegan protein powders, let's discuss why protein quality matters. Proteins are essential macronutrients that are crucial in various bodily functions, including muscle building, tissue repair, and enzyme production. The quality of a protein source can impact its effectiveness in meeting these nutritional needs.

Protein quality is typically evaluated based on three key factors:

1. Amino Acid Profile: Proteins are made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of life. There are nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own, so they must be obtained from the diet. A high-quality protein source provides all essential amino acids in the right proportions.

2. Digestibility: A protein's digestibility determines how efficiently the body can break it down and absorb its amino acids. Protein sources with high digestibility are more effective at providing the necessary nutrients.

3. Biological Value (BV): BV measures how well the body can utilize a protein source. A higher BV indicates a protein source that is more readily absorbed and utilized, making it a better choice for supporting various bodily functions.

Assessing Vegan Protein Powders

Now that we understand the importance of protein quality let's explore how to assess the value of vegan protein powders.

1. Amino Acid Profile: One of the common misconceptions about plant-based proteins is that they lack essential amino acids. While some vegan protein sources may be deficient in certain amino acids, you can easily overcome this by combining different plant-based protein sources. Look for vegan protein powders that incorporate a variety of plant proteins, such as pea, rice, hemp, and quinoa. This combination ensures you're getting a well-rounded amino acid profile.

Our Vegan Pro is a pure plant-based protein powder designed with a unique formula and completely organic ingredients, such as yellow pea protein, amino acids and BCAA.

2. Digestibility: The digestibility of vegan protein powders can vary depending on the source and processing methods. Look for products that use enzymatic processing or other techniques that enhance digestibility. Additionally, reading product reviews and seeking recommendations from trusted sources can give you insights into how well individuals tolerate a specific vegan protein powder.

Compared to animal-based protein (like whey), our unique Vegan Pro formula made with pea protein is much easier to digest, non-bloating and smooth on sensitive guts. 

3. Biological Value (BV): While BV is often used to assess animal-based protein sources, it can still be a valuable guideline for evaluating vegan protein powders. Protein blends that incorporate multiple plant sources tend to have a higher BV, as they provide a more comprehensive amino acid profile. Keep an eye out for products that specifically mention their BV, although it's less commonly reported for plant-based proteins.

4. Additional Nutrients: Vegan protein powders often contain other beneficial nutrients, such as fibre, vitamins, and minerals. These can add extra value to your protein source. Be sure to check the product label for information on these nutrients and consider how they align with your overall dietary goals.

5. Allergen Information: If you have food allergies or sensitivities, check the allergen information on the product label. Some vegan protein powders may contain common allergens like soy or nuts, so it's essential to choose a product that suits your dietary needs.

Our Vegan Pro does not contain any nuts or peanuts. However, they are manufactured in a facility that processes nuts and peanuts.

Understanding protein quality is the key to making informed choices when selecting vegan protein powders. By evaluating the amino acid profile, digestibility, biological value, additional nutrients, and allergen information, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your nutritional goals. 

Remember that the best vegan protein powder for you may vary depending on your individual preferences and dietary restrictions, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the one that suits you best. 

Happy protein powder shopping, and here's to your health!


By Marie-Pier Deschênes
Writer for RAW Nutritional