Protein powders aren’t just for bodybuilders. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, gain muscle, or simply boost your nutrition, adding protein powder to your routine can work wonders. And for those wanting to go plant-based, pea protein has quickly risen as a top contender.
But how do you choose the best pea protein powder? What should you look out for, and why is it such a brilliant option?
Why pea protein is a great choice
Pea protein is a powerhouse for plant-based nutrition. Made from yellow split peas, it’s packed with essential amino acids (the ones your body can’t produce on its own), making it comparable to animal-derived proteins like whey. It’s also completely free from common allergens such as dairy, soy and gluten, which is a win for anyone with dietary sensitivities.
But the benefits don’t stop there. According to Riya Lakhani-Kanji, expert nutritionist from Nutravita, pea protein is particularly great for those looking to lose weight.
“Studies indicate that pea protein can lower the secretion of ghrelin, the hunger-stimulating hormone. By reducing levels of this hormone, it helps curb cravings, making it a great option for weight loss goals. Simply wholesome nutrition that supports your health journey,” she told the ES Best Shopping team.
It’s also been shown to support muscle growth just as effectively as whey protein, with research suggesting that plant-based proteins can be just as beneficial for strength and recovery.
What to look for in a pea protein powder
With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know what makes a good pea protein powder. Here’s what to consider:
Pea protein vs whey protein
While whey protein has long been the go-to for fitness enthusiasts, more people are making the switch to pea protein - and for good reason. Lakhani-Kanj explains that, as a dairy-based product, whey can sometimes come with unwanted extras.
“In the case of whey protein, as it is derived from dairy, it may contain growth hormones given to cows to boost milk production. In such cases, it is better to opt for organic alternatives,” she reveals.
Pea protein, on the other hand, is naturally hormone-free and offers the added benefit of being completely plant-based. It’s also lactose-free, so you can sidestep the bloating or digestive discomfort some people experience with whey.
How to make the most of your pea protein powder
Once you’ve chosen the right powder, incorporating it into your daily routine is easy. Blend it into a smoothie with almond milk and a handful of berries for a post-workout boost, stir it into your morning porridge for a creamy protein kick, or even bake it into muffins for a healthy snack.
For weight loss, consider having a shake with pea protein between meals to curb cravings and keep hunger in check. For muscle growth, add it to your post-workout routine to support recovery and repair.
Choosing the best pea protein powder comes down to quality, simplicity, and your individual goals. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle or simply up your protein intake, pea protein is a fantastic, plant-based alternative to traditional options like whey. As Lakhani-Kanji says, it’s “simply wholesome nutrition that supports your health journey.”
How we tested
As a bodybuilder, I know the discomfort that can come from traditional protein powders, which often leave me feeling bloated. So, I decided to try another option and got the verdict from my friends at Muscleworks Gym, home to some of the UK’s top athletes who rely on protein powders daily.
At the ES Best Shopping team, we put pea protein powders to the test by evaluating taste, mixability and nutritional content. From morning smoothies to post-workout shakes, we assessed how well they performed so that only the best make the cut.
Read on for the best pea protein powder.
Hermosa Vegan Protein Powder
This bulk buy is perfect for those of us who need a steady supply of high-quality plant-based protein. With 20g of protein per serving, this blend of pea and hemp protein provides all nine essential amino acids to support muscle recovery and overall wellness.
The ingredients are sustainably sourced, which is a big plus for me too. Plus, it’s halal-certified, making it suitable for more dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a clean, reliable protein source that’s kind to both your body and the planet, this is the one.
Buy now £67.00, Hermosa
Welle Co Nourishing Protein
Unlike many plant-based options, this one delivers the full spectrum of all nine essential amino acids, which is great for post-workout recovery. It’s perfect for supporting lean muscle, keeping energy levels high, and even helping balance blood sugar – ideal for those mid-afternoon slumps.
The taste is another win – mixed with the right milk and frothed up, it is just like a shake.
Buy now £29.00, Welle Co
Nutravita Vegan Vanilla Protein Powder
This vegan protein powder combines pea, hemp and brown rice proteins, offering a balanced 21g of protein per serving. It’s rich in essential amino acids and enhanced with a blend of five digestive enzymes to support nutrient absorption, so your body gets the most out of each scoop.
Flavour-wise, it’s made with Madagascan vanilla seeds for a subtle, natural taste.
Buy now £16.99, Amazon
Bio Energy Lean and Green
As someone who values clean, effective nutrition, the Bio-Synergy Lean and Green Raw Vegan Protein is a good option. It’s packed with 22g of high-quality protein per serving, derived from pea protein isolate and brown rice protein, making it ideal for muscle growth and recovery. The added bonus? It’s free from sugar, hemp, soya, gluten and dairy.
Buy now £34.99, Sweatband
Nutristrength Pea Protein Roasted Cocoa
The first thing I noticed about the Nutristrength Pea Protein Roasted Cocoa was the rich, natural chocolate taste - it’s indulgent without being overly sweet, making it perfect for everything from smoothies to morning porridge.
Unlike so many other pea proteins that are sandy or grainy, this powder mixes beautifully, leaving no unpleasant texture behind. Whether I combine it with coconut milk or water or even blend it into recipes, it’s consistently smooth. Plus, it’s made from natural ingredients, so I know I’m fuelling my body with something clean and healthy.
Buy now £19.99, Amazon
Purition Wholefood Plant Nutrition
Purition offers a wholefood protein powder and shake made from real ingredients, blending European golden pea protein and British fava bean protein. Designed as a natural alternative to traditional protein supplements and meal replacement shakes, it also includes added fibre and is suitable for keto diets. Another major highlight for me is that it is naturally low in sugar and plays its part in supporting good gut health, unlike some traditional whey proteins I have used in the past.
Buy now £24.00, Amazon
Myprotein Impact Pea Protein
This pea protein supplement from Myprotein is low in fat and only 116 calories per serving, making it a great option for anyone focused on their fitness goals without compromising on flavour.
Unlike many protein powders, it contains no added sugar, which I really appreciate. The flavour options, such as sweet strawberry and salted caramel, blend well into smoothies and shakes and offer variety if you fancy trying out a few different flavour options.
Buy now £31.00, Myprotein
Arbonne Feel Fit Pea Protein Shake
Prefer to gulp down your protein shake first thing to set you up for the day? This banana pancake-flavoured protein shake means you can – sort of – pretend you’re tucking into a stack of freshly made pancakes, without the hassle of cooking them first.
Containing 20g of protein derived from peas, cranberries and rice, the shake blends very easily without leaving any grittiness and packs in over 20 vitamins and minerals including methylated forms of vitamin B12 and folate.
Buy now £78.00, Arbonne
