The 9 Best Dairy-Free Protein Powders of 2024 – Fitnessnacks

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If you’re looking to increase strength, support muscular hypertrophy, and boost your immunity to keep you healthy, the best protein powders can be a handy elixir to keep up with your fitness goals. (1)(2) However, if your insides don’t take too kindly to dairy products like whey and casein protein, the best dairy-free protein powders will be your light in the darkness. With plant-based protein sources like peas, brown rice, soy, hemp, and more, you won’t need to suckle from the teet of a cow to build Hulk-like shoulders.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or have milk sensitivities, there are a number of dairy-free options to support your protein goals. Just take a peek into any vitamin store and you’ll be inundated with large tubs filled with fine powder (and even finer print). The BarBend team has tried and tested more than 100 protein powders to point you in the right direction of the best options out there. With the help of registered dietitians, we’ve compiled our picks for the best dairy-free protein powders on the market.

The 9 Best Dairy-Free Protein Powders of 2024

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

About Our Expert 

This article has been reviewed by Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., a registered dietitian with 10 years of experience in the clinical setting. She looked into the research we cite and the efficacy/quality of the products we list to help ensure we’re providing advice that’s safe. However, everyone’s body is different, so before you try any new products, it’s best to consult your doctor.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Dairy-Free Protein Powders

We love our protein shakes here at BarBend, and our roster of personal trainers, CrossFit athletes, and certified nutrition coaches have tried out more than 100 of the most popular protein powders on the market. To convey our findings on the best dairy-free protein powders, we’ve utilized BarBend’s supplement testing methodology, rating categories such as formulation, transparency, and taste on a scale of 1 (not good) to 5 (we love it).

• Protein Source: All of the protein powders on this list use an alternative source of protein in place of dairy ingredients such as casein and whey protein. We looked for options with pea protein, rice protein, egg whites, and more.
• Price: Dairy-free protein powders tend to be more expensive per serving than whey protein powders — averaging between $2 and $2.50 per serving, as compared to whey protein, which tends to cost between $1 and $2 per serving. When our choices exceeded this average, we made sure to note it and explain why it was worth the added cash.
• Protein Per Serving: The recommended daily protein intake is 0.36 grams per pound and can increase depending on your training and needs. (3) As such, we looked for options that provided at least 20 grams of protein per serving to help you reach your daily needs.
• Calories Per Serving: We sought to choose options with between 100 and 140 calories per serving, though some options with a wider range of macros exceed that.
• Third-Party Testing: Knowing what you’re putting in your body is important, so we looked for protein powders with third-party testing to provide peace of mind and transparency about what exactly is in the protein powder. This is especially important for competitive athletes who follow governing agencies rules regarding what they can and can’t put in their bodies.
• Taste: While palates and preferences will vary from person to person, our team sought to select some of the best-tasting protein powders for this list based on their personal tasting experience.

Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder Overall: Legion Plant+

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Legion Plant+

Legion’s Plant+ has 25 grams of protein per serving, just four grams of carbs, and is packed with vitamins and minerals that plant-based eaters may want more of. Use code “BARBEND” for 20% off!

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $2.49
• Protein Source: Pea protein and rice protein 
• Protein Per Serving: 24g-25g
• Calories Per Serving: 130-140
• Third-Party Testing: Yes 
• Available Flavors: Chocolate, Mocha Cappuccino, Vanilla, Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Cereal, Apple Pie

Pros

• Plant-based protein formulated with pea and rice protein
• 24-25 grams of protein per serving
• Unique, sweet flavors like Apple Pie and Mocha Cappuccino

Cons

• High sodium content in some flavors
• Produced in a facility that processes common allergen ingredients
• $2.49 per serving cost is higher than other options

We think Legion Plant+ is one of the best vegan protein powders, as it utilizes pea and rice protein in place of whey or casein, and it’s our choice for the best dairy-free protein powder overall. “I really like Legion Plant+ as a vegan protein powder,” says BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois.

Formulation scored a 5 out of 5 with our tester, who felt satiated after consuming this 140-calorie protein shake. “You get 24 to 25 grams of protein per scoop, all from high-quality, plant-based sources,” says Bourgeois. That’s more protein per serving than the typical dairy-free protein powder which tends to provide 20 grams per serving. “Plus, there’s no added sugar, and the fat and carb content are controlled so you can boost your protein intake without skewing your other macros much.”

However, it’s worth pointing out that Plant+ is produced in a facility that processes ingredients like milk, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, eggs, wheat, soybeans, and peanuts. If you have any sensitivities to these ingredients, take note. 

Barbend tester trying Legion Plant Protein.

According to Bourgeois, “The sodium content in Plant+ is worth noting, as it’s pretty high in some flavors — up to a whopping 450 milligrams in the vanilla flavor.” The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day, so this serving would account for almost 20 percent of your daily recommended max. (4)

In addition to typical Chocolate and Vanilla protein flavors, you can choose Mocha Cappuccino, Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Cereal, and Apple Pie to treat your protein shake like a sweet treat. “I had the Apple Pie flavor and while I liked the cinnamon flavor in it, I think some athletes may find it too sweet,” said our tester, who scored taste a 4 out of 5.

While Legion Plant+ took home an overall 4.24 out of 5 score, it is on the pricier side of the average dairy-free protein powder, which costs around $2 to $2.50 per serving.

Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder Formula: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein

A surprisingly delicious vegan protein powder that’s totally free from artificial ingredients and soy, Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein contains  a 2:1 ratio of rice to pea protein powder, and four grams of fiber. 

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $1.67
• Protein Source: Organic rice protein, organic pea protein
• Protein Per Serving: 24g
• Calories Per Serving: 130-140
• Third-Party Testing: Yes (Informed Protein)
• Available Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla

Pros

• Organic ingredients free from gluten, GMOs, and artificial flavors
• Thirty percent of your daily iron needs per serving
• Transparent labeling

Cons

• Only Chocolate or French Vanilla flavor
• Some athletes may be sensitive to stevia
• Per our tester, the powder has a weird smell

According to BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, “Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein scores 4 out of 5 for its formulation, with high marks for its short list of ingredients and deductions for the sodium content and lack of flavors.” Utilizing organic pea and rice protein, all the ingredients in this protein powder are organic — in fact, it’s one of the best organic protein powders we’ve tested — and free from gluten, GMOs, and artificial sweeteners. 

“They get really specific with their ingredients,” mentions BarBend tester Nick English in the video review below. “This contains 9.411 grams of pea protein isolate per serving — it’s very unusual to see anyone get this specific with their ingredients.” 

Each serving size is between 130 and 140 calories, and you’ll get 3 to 7 grams of carbs and 2 to 2.5 grams of fat. “I love that Transparent Labs keeps the ingredients list short with their Organic Vegan protein powder. You get 24 grams of high-quality, plant-based protein without any unnecessary fluff. Plus, you get 30 percent of your daily iron needs,” says Bourgeois.

However, our tester gave the Vanilla flavor a try and wasn’t a big fan of the taste or smell. “It tasted artificially sweet, and I wouldn’t want to drink this without adding it to a smoothie,” they said. “It also had a bad smell and worst of all, I think the stevia in it or the Vanilla flavor upset my stomach.” Flavor scored a 2 out of 5. 

Our tester grabbing a scoop of Transparent Labs Organic Vegan.

While the powder’s formulation and transparency get top marks, we do wish that there were more options besides Chocolate and French Vanilla flavors. 

Read our full Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Review.

Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder for Athletes: Ka’Chava The Whole Body Meal

Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal

This vegan meal replacement offers various superfood blends that include organic fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, enzymes and probiotics. It totals 240 calories, 25 grams of plant-based protein, 25 grams of carbohydrates (including seven grams of fiber), and seven grams of fat. 

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $4.66
• Protein Source: Yellow pea protein, brown rice, sacha inchi, amaranth, quinoa
• Protein Per Serving: 25g
• Calories Per Serving: 240
• Third-Party Testing: Yes
• Available Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Coconut Acai, Chai, Matcha

Pros

• 24 grams of carbs can support long training sessions (5)
• Included micronutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin D
• Included prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes

Cons

• $4.66 cost per serving is expensive
• Formulation includes proprietary blends, added sugar, and sodium
• Only 15 servings per package

The balanced macronutrients in Ka’Chava’s Whole Body Meal makes it our choice for the best dairy-free protein powder for athletes. The 25 grams of protein per serving can help repair achy muscles, while the 24 grams of carbohydrates and 7 grams of fat per serving can help fuel longer training sessions. (5) This spread of macronutrients also makes it one of the best meal replacements we’ve tried. “Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal really packs a lot into each serving. It’s costly, but you get what you pay for,” says BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois.

A BarBend tester opening a bag of Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal.

There are more than 85 superfood and plant-based ingredients in this supp, including prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes, which can help aid in digestion. (7) We also like that each serving is packed with micronutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin D, which studies have shown can aid in injury prevention and recovery. (6) 

Bourgeois scored the formulation a 4.5 out of 5, dinging it slightly for “the proprietary blends, sodium content, and added sugar.” The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day, so this 400-milligram serving would account for almost 17 percent of your daily recommended max. (8)

Our tester trying the Ka’Chava shake.

The biggest sticking point for Ka’Chava The Whole Body Meal is its $4.66 cost per serving — well above other dairy-free protein powders. Additionally, you’ll only get 15 servings in a pack, so if you’re looking to consume this meal replacement daily, you’ll need at least two packs per month. This being a meal replacement with a wider spread of macronutrients, though, a higher cost is to be expected. 

Read our full Ka’Chava Meal Replacement Review.

Best Tasting Dairy-Free Protein Powder: Onnit Plant-Based Protein

Onnit Plant-Based Protein

Onnit Plant-Based Protein

This plant-based protein powder is dairy, soy, and gluten-free, with 20 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 3 grams of carb in each 100-calorie serving

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $2.25
• Protein Source: Pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, watermelon seed protein
• Protein Per Serving: 20g
• Calories Per Serving: 100-110
• Third-Party Testing: Yes (Informed Sport)
• Available Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate

Pros

• Chocolate flavor is reminiscent of chocolate milk
• This powder blends easily
• Informed Sport certified

Cons

• Limited Chocolate and Vanilla flavors
• Only 20 servings per container
• Calories per serving may be too low for those bulking

Onnit Plant-Based Protein is our choice for the best tasting dairy-free protein powder because, well, our tester thought it tasted great. While there are only two flavors, Vanilla and Chocolate, the Chocolate flavor left a lasting impression. “It reminds me of dairy-free chocolate milk that I’ve had,” they said, scoring the taste a 4 out of 5. 

When comparing whey protein vs. plant protein, many plant-based protein powders can be chalky or clump up when you try to mix them, which can impact the flavor. However, our tester appreciated how well this powder mixed with water, giving solubility a 4 out of 5 score. “It blended really well in my water and I didn’t have any clumps floating around,” they said. 

This profile’s protein content comes via peas, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and watermelon seeds, and it’s rounded out by 1 gram of fat, 3 grams of carbohydrates, and 100 calories per serving. 

Our tester holding a container of Onnit Plant-Based Protein.

The addition of avocado powder helps to provide healthy fats that improve flavor and mouthfeel, while monk fruit extract adds a natural sweetness to the beverage. Plus, it includes eight essential amino acids that plant-based dieters need but don’t typically get from plant-protein supplements, and a range of 18 total amino acids, which studies suggest can support muscle recovery and endurance efforts. (9) 

What’s more, this product is third-party tested by Informed Sport, so what’s listed on the label is what you’re getting in the product.

Priced at $2.25 per serving, this is smack dab in the middle of the average dairy-free protein powder cost of $2 to $2.50 per serving. However, you’ll only get 20 servings in a container, which may not be enough for a full month’s supply depending on your protein shake habits. Personally, I like to have two protein shakes a day, so I’d work through this entire package in about a week and a half.

Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

This clean, transparent protein powder relies on organic, non-GMO yellow peas for its 20-gram protein dosage. Additionally, the subscription-based model helps ensure you’re always stocked up to help you meet your nutritional goals day in and day out.

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $2.67
• Protein Source: Organic pea protein
• Protein Per Serving: 20g
• Calories Per Serving: 115
• Third-Party Testing: Yes (Informed Sport, Informed Protein)
• Available Flavors: Vanilla

Pros

• 115 calories per serving can help keep you in a caloric deficit (10)
• Used by Angel City Football Club athletes
• L-methionine helps create a complete amino acid profile (11)

Cons

• Only available in Vanilla
• Only 15 servings in a container
• The $2.67 per serving price is costly

If you’re curious about how to maintain muscle while losing weight, be like the Angel City Football Club team whose athletes use Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ as part of their everyday training. According to studies, maintaining your protein intake paired with physical fitness and a caloric deficit can help you preserve your muscles as you drop pounds. (12) The Daily Shake 18+ provides 20 grams of protein and only 115 calories per serving, so you can maintain a caloric deficit without losing out on the protein you need. (10)

This protein powder utilizes organic pea protein as its main ingredient to keep you satiated while in a caloric deficit for weight loss, and vanilla bean extract, fermented sugarcane, and monk fruit for flavoring. “Ritual Essential Protein scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formulation,” according to our expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois. 

Our tester using Ritual Essential protein powder.

“And because it includes methionine, it’s a complete protein,” she says. The L-methionine in this formulation helps create a complete amino acid profile for boosted protein synthesis and muscle growth. (11) “Methionine is an essential amino acid, meaning our bodies need it but can’t produce it, so it’s super convenient to get it in your protein powder,” concludes Bourgeois.

There are some limitations with Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+, one being that you won’t find a range of flavors to choose from since there’s only Vanilla. 

At $2.67 per serving, this protein powder is more expensive than average dairy-free protein powders which can cost between $2 and $2.50 per serving. You’ll also only be getting 15 servings per container, so most users will need two bags for a month’s supply. However, for the cost, you’re getting one of the best clean protein powders we’ve tried. 

Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder for Building Muscle: Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein

Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein

Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein

Improve muscle recovery, strength, and endurance with 20 grams of protein, 10 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of fat in this plant-based protein.

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $2.50
• Protein Source: Pea protein and rice protein
• Protein Per Serving: 20g
• Calories Per Serving: 140
• Third-Party Testing: Yes
• Available Flavors: Vanilla Chai, Chocolate

Pros

• Complete amino acid profile to help build muscle
• Doesn’t have artificial sweeteners or colors
• Gluten-free and vegan-friendly

Cons

• Only 20 servings per package
• The powder has an “earthy” taste
• Sandy texture to the drink

Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein — one of the best low-carb protein powders we’ve tested — is our choice for the best dairy-free protein powder for building muscle due to its combo of 20 grams of protein and a complete amino acid profile, which is required for a variety of processes that take place within your body, like protein synthesis, building muscle, and making hormones. (13)(14)

This gluten-free and vegan-friendly protein powder utilizes pea protein isolate and rice protein concentrate that’s free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and other fluff. This formula is third-party tested, too, so you can be sure what’s listed is what you’re getting. Our tester scored its formulation a 5 out of 5.

If you’re needing to up your protein, there’s nothing worse than tossing back gross-tasting protein drinks with your nose plugged. Our tester gave the Chocolate flavor a try, and while there was an “earthy” note to it, which some consumers may not have the palate for, they liked the muted flavor. “I imagine not everyone will like this, but I liked that it was mild and not super sweet,” They said, giving flavor a 5 out of 5.

While solubility also scored a 5 out of 5, the texture of this drink was different than other protein shakes we’ve tried. “It was sorta sandy. Very fine, but definitely sand-like, which gave it a bit of a thick texture,” they said. “Still, I had no trouble getting it down.”

If you’re like me and struggle to find good vegan protein sources — how much tofu can one gal eat in a day, amiright? — it’s nice to come across vegan-friendly protein powders with complete amino acid profiles. However, there are only 20 servings in a container and the cost per serving is $2.50, which is on the high end of the average cost of a dairy-free protein powder. 

Best Low Carb Dairy-Free Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Organic Pea Protein Isolate Powder

Organic Pea Protein Isolate Power

Organic Pea Protein Isolate Power

Vegan, organic, and lactose-free, this protein powder provides 21 grams of protein, 2.6 grams of fat, and 0 carbs per serving.

Specs

• Price Per Serving: Starting at $0.70
• Protein Source: Pea protein
• Protein Per Serving: 21g
• Calories Per Serving: 100
• Third-Party Testing: Yes
• Available Flavors: Unflavored

Pros

• Suitable for low-carb diets and diabetics
• Gluten-free, soy-free, additive-free, and dairy-free
• You can buy in bulk to save money

Cons

• You may want to add your own flavoring
• Bag can make a mess when opening
• Doesn’t include a scoop

Our choice of the best low-carb, dairy-free protein powder is Bulk Supplements Organic Pea Protein Isolate Powder, which contains no carbs at all. High-protein, low-carb foods are often most helpful for those managing diabetes or with insulin resistance looking for glycemic control, but they can also help assist with weight loss. (15) 

While low-carb (and dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and additive-free), you’ll still get 21 grams of protein, 2.6 grams of fat, and 100 calories per serving.

Tester using Bulk Supplements Soy Protein.

Bulk Supplements provides a simple, low-carb product with only one listed ingredient: organic pea protein isolate. It’s unflavored, so consumers may want to mix it with something else to infuse a bit of flavor. “If you’ve never tried pea protein powder before, be prepared that it might taste funny if you drink it on its own,” noted our tester who scored taste a 3 out of 5. “I used this in some baked goods and it worked well, I couldn’t even taste the protein powder.”

My favorite part about Bulk Supplements is that you can buy as little or as much as you want, from 3.5 ounces for $14 to 11 pounds for $119. The more you buy, the cheaper the cost per serving becomes, with the price per serving going as low as $0.70. 

However, unlike hard plastic containers with lids that screw on, it comes in a bag with a press seal resealable closure, so the bag can be difficult to close and make a mess when opening. Lastly, and this is by no means a dealbreaker, but it’s annoying that there’s no scoop included in the package. 

Best Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition Naked Egg

Naked Egg

Naked Egg White Protein Powder only has two ingredients, and provides 25 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbs, and 110 calories per serving.

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $1.55
• Protein Source: Egg whites
• Protein Per Serving: 25g
• Calories Per Serving: 240
• Third-Party Testing: Yes
• Available Flavors: Unflavored

Pros

• Protein powder for gluten-free and dairy-free diets
• Can be used for baking and in shakes
• Paleo-friendly

Cons

• Each serving is actually two scoops
• It can taste “eggy”
• Doesn’t whip like other egg-white powders

While Naked Nutrition Naked Egg protein powder won’t be suitable for those following a vegan diet — it’s sourced from non-GMO chicken eggs — it is ideal for those looking for a gluten-free and lactose-free protein powder. “If you’re looking for an alternative to whey or casein, this is worth some consideration,” says BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1.

Thanks to egg health benefits, adding them into your daily diet can help you reach your daily protein goals. Meier tossed this protein powder into a smoothie and in her morning coffee while testing it out. “When I put it in a smoothie with banana, strawberry, and Lactaid, I could taste some of that eggy flavor,” she mentioned, “But when I mixed it in the blender with some black coffee, it got a little frothy and I actually really liked it this way.” Taste scored a 3 out of 5.

I follow a gluten-free diet and I’ve also used this egg white protein powder when baking. While it works as an egg substitute for some dishes, it doesn’t work as well as some other powdered egg white brands I’ve tried. 

Our tester shakes up some Naked Egg protein powder.

When I tried making the viral TikTok keto cloud bread, I couldn’t get this powder to whip up and form large peaks, which I blame on the fact that in addition to egg whites, there’s also sunflower lecithin in the ingredients. Regardless, there’s still a lot you can do with this paleo-friendly, gluten-free, non-dairy protein powder.

Each serving is 110 calories, with 25 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 0 grams of fat. You’ll also find a variety of essential and nonessential amino acids, as well as BCAAs, which may optimize performance, support recovery, and benefit body composition — although the studies are mixed on how effective BCAA supplementation really is. (16) 

While we wouldn’t recommend the restrictive all-egg diet that you may have seen on social media, adding some egg white powder to your morning coffee may be a great way to start your day.

Best Budget Dairy-Free Protein Powder: Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein

Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein

Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein

This unflavored protein powder is gluten-free and vegan and packs 8 grams of protein in each 40-calorie serving.

Specs

• Price Per Serving: $0.26
• Protein Source: Pea protein
• Protein Per Serving: 8g
• Calories Per Serving: 40
• Third-Party Testing: Yes
• Available Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Coconut Acai, Chai, Matcha

Pros

• Only $0.26 per serving
• Verified gluten-free
• It has only one ingredient

Cons

• Only available in a 2-pound bag
• Low 8 grams of protein per serving
• Bag can be difficult to close after each use

Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein is our choice for the best budget dairy-free protein powder because it’s easily one of the most affordable protein powders on the market. Whether you’re looking to add some protein after your workout or want to sneak a protein shake before bed, the $0.26 per serving cost of this pea protein — less than the $2 to $2.50 cost per serving seen on the average dairy-free protein powder — gives you the freedom to go hog-wild with a protein shake whenever you see fit. Price scored a 5 out of 5 with our tester.

While the serving size of this protein powder only provides 8 grams of protein — between 12 and 17 grams less than other options we’ve tested — you can always double up your serving size to get yourself closer to the amount of protein you’re looking to consume. However, keep in mind that if you intend on doubling or even tripling your serving size, that cost per serving will go up from $0.26 to $0.52 or $0.78, respectively.

There’s only one ingredient in this protein powder: gluten-free pea protein isolate sourced from Canadian yellow peas. Since there isn’t any flavoring added, you’ll want to consider adding this to flavored smoothies and baked goods if you’re not accustomed to the taste of pea protein. Our tester agreed, “If you’re not used to the taste of pea protein, you might think it’s a little intense.” Taste scored a 3 out of 5.

As of this writing, you’ll only find 2-pound bags of this protein powder available, so there isn’t much wiggle room if you want to try this out with a small serving or buy in bulk. Additionally, the 2-pound package comes in a plastic bag with a resealable closure that some customers have mentioned can be difficult to close.

How Much Do Dairy-Free Protein Powders Cost?

Dairy-free protein powders average around $2 to $2.50 per serving, unlike the best whey protein powders, which tend to cost between $1 and $2 per serving. Our list includes options between $0.26 and $4.66 per serving.

Our tester mixing a shake of Transparent Labs Organic Vegan.

Lower-priced options tend to include fewer ingredients while higher-priced powders pack in a wider range of nutrients, providing a more well-rounded pre- or post-workout snack (and sometimes a full meal replacement).

Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder Overall	Legion Plant+	$2.49/serving
Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder Formula	Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder	$1.67/serving
Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder for Athletes	Ka’Chava The Whole Body Meal	$4.66/serving
Best Tasting Dairy-Free Protein Powder	Onnit Plant-Based Protein	$2.25/serving
Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Ritual Essential Protein Daily	$2.67/serving
Best Dairy-Free Protein Powder for Building Muscle	Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein	$2.50/serving
Best Low Carb Dairy-Free Protein Powder	Bulk Supplements Organic Pea Protein Isolate Powder	Starting at $0.70/serving
Best Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Protein Powder	Naked Nutrition Naked Egg	$1.55/serving
Best Budget Dairy-Free Protein Powder	Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein	$0.26/serving

What To Consider Before Buying a Dairy-Free Protein Powder

If you’re following a plant-based diet or dairy products cause some rumblin’ in the tummy, there are several dairy-free protein options on the market, from hemp protein, soy protein, egg whites, and pea protein to chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. Before you pick up your next gains-boosting fuel, consider your fitness routine, budget, and taste preferences to help you dial in on the perfect protein powder for you.

Your Protein Needs

How much protein do you need? We know that protein is essential for building muscle, but how much of it do you need for your body to do its job properly? “Consume protein with all of your meals and have one or two protein shakes a day, that’s going to be enough for most people to produce a measurable effect on body composition, especially people who don’t want to think of it that much,” says BarBend tester Nick English in the video review below. 

However, if you’re looking to track your protein more closely, the International Society of Sports Nutrition recommends 1.4 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. (17)

Calories Per Serving

Most dairy-free protein powders provide between 100 and 140 calories per serving, which is an easy way to keep you satiated between meals without ruining your appetite. Take stock of your fitness goals and how many calories would best suit you.

If you’re in a loading phase and working on adding muscle, consider a protein powder with more calories to support your energy levels and make sure you have enough fuel in your body to build more muscle. If you’re in a cutting phase, consider a protein powder with fewer calories so you can remain in a caloric deficit while still hitting your protein goals.

[Related: Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss]

What Ingredients Suit Your System

While you may be here because you know you want to avoid dairy and lactose in your protein — casein and whey protein are out of the equation — consider what other dietary needs or restrictions suit your body and lifestyle. Do you prefer how pea protein makes you feel versus egg whites? Maybe a protein blend that includes brown rice protein sits best post-workout. There are tons of options out there, carefully curated to suit all types of bodies and needs.

A BarBend tester reading the Ka’Chava ingredient label.

Those managing celiac disease may need a protein powder that’s verified gluten-free, since cross contamination with gluten during manufacturing can occur. (18) Additionally, some individuals managing IBS or autoimmune diseases such as Hashimotos may also be interested in cutting out gluten in an effort to nail down if certain foods are causing inflammation. (19) 

However, studies about gluten and its effect on certain illnesses are conflicting, so you’ll want to consult with your doctor or take your gluten-free protein shake with a grain of salt. (Not literally with salt, just don’t expect a gluten-free diet to solve all of your woes)

[Related: Foods for Fighting Inflammation]

If you’ve noticed digestive issues with other dairy-free protein powders, here are some additional ingredients to keep your eye on when trying to figure out the tummy-rumbling culprit: artificial sweeteners like erythritol and sorbitol can be hard to digest and cause gas and bloating; inulin can cause bloating and gas; and xanthan gum can swell in the intestine, which can cause abdominal discomfort. (20)(21)(22)

Kidney Disease

While a high-protein diet can be great for healthy individuals, those with kidney disease will want to take extra precautions when introducing protein shakes into their routine. As recommended by The National Kidney Foundation, people with chronic kidney disease should limit their protein intake to between 0.6 and 0.75 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. (23)

Price

Price is dictated by several factors, including the type and quality of ingredients used, the macro split, the amount of protein included, and taste and solubility. The average dairy-free protein powder will cost between $2 and $2.50 per serving, but our list provides options ranging from as low as $0.26 to as high as $4.66 per serving. Products with a lower price point often include only one or two ingredients, while higher-priced options feature a wider range of micronutrients and balanced macros for a more satiating drinky drink. 

Some of the additions that can raise the cost of dairy-free protein powders include essential and non-essential amino acids, BCAAs, and protein blends that incorporate a mixture of more than one protein source.

While the average protein powder tends to cost between $1 and $2 per serving, dairy-free protein powders tend to be more expensive because they may require more rigorous testing to certify that they’re providing what’s being promised: vegan, gluten-free, organic, non-GMO, etc.

Benefits of Dairy-Free Protein Powders

Protein powder benefits are wide and expansive, from aiding in building muscle to helping keep consumers satiated. Dairy-free protein powders don’t include dairy or lactose ingredients, so here are some specific benefits you can expect from them as well.

BarBend testers trying the Ka’Chava meal replacement shake.

• Can Help Support Weight Loss: Protein is scientifically shown to aid in weight loss and weight maintenance thanks to its ability to help keep you feeling fuller for longer than fats or carbohydrates can. (24)(25) 
• Easier to Digest: One of the most common side effects of whey protein powder is an upset stomach or digestive issues. Cutting out whey and casein in favor of plant-based proteins tends to be easier on the digestive system, allowing your body to more easily digest and utilize the protein you’ve ingested. 
• Good For Animals and The Planet: By avoiding dairy in your protein shake, you’re helping to avoid factory-farmed animal products. This can help limit animal cruelty and environmental impact. While there’s environmental impact from both animal products and plant-based products, factory-farmed animal products can cause greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity loss, and disease, as well as excessive consumption of food and water. (26)

Dairy-Free Protein Powders FAQs

What is the best dairy-free protein powder?

We’ve tasted more than 100 different protein powders in our quest for the best of the best, and when it comes to our choice of the best dairy-free protein powder we think Legion Plant+ comes out on top. With 24 to 25 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, 5 grams of carbs, and 140 calories per serving, you can treat your sweet tooth with flavors like Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Cereal, and Apple Pie without any added sugar.

How much do dairy-free protein powders cost?

While the average dairy-free protein powder costs between $2 and $2.50 per serving, dairy-free protein powders on our list range in price from $0.26 to $4.66 per serving. More cost-friendly options have fewer ingredients, while higher priced options often include complete amino acid profiles, BCAAs, and additional high-quality ingredients to support your fitness goals.

Is dairy-free protein powder good for you?

Yes! There are loads of benefits associated with dairy-free protein powders, including less abdominal discomfort and gastrointestinal issues which some people may experience with whey and casein protein sources. For individuals who are lactose intolerant or have milk allergies, a dairy-free protein powder is a great way to have easy access to added protein in their diets without the side effects that dairy products may cause them. (27)

References

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