Choosing an organic over conventional protein powder is a personal choice. Organic protein powders differ from other protein powders because they don’t contain synthetic pesticides or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Some evidence also suggests that organic foods may be lower in heavy metals. Organic protein powders can be helpful if you have increased protein needs, such as if you exercise regularly, are vegan or vegetarian, or find it challenging to get enough protein from food alone.
When choosing an organic protein powder, our experts recommend looking for a minimal ingredient list, around 20 grams of protein, and independent verification labels, like NSF Certified for Sport or Informed-Choice for Sport Certified. Independent verification ensures the product contains what it says on the label without unsafe levels of contaminants. To determine the best organic protein powders on the market, our registered dietitians reviewed research, interviewed experts, and used their clinical expertise to evaluate for quality and nutritional content. We also taste-test protein powders on an ongoing basis to make sure we are giving the best tasting and nutritionally sound recommendations available.
Verywell Fit FYI
According to a recent Consumer Reports (CR) investigation of 23 protein powders and shakes, some protein supplements may have higher lead levels than what CR food safety experts say is safe to consume in a day. The report highlighted that plant protein powders have higher lead levels than those derived from dairy proteins, such as whey or beef-based products. Naked Nutrition’s Vegan Mass Gainer powder was the worst offender, having the highest lead levels of all products tested. While we don’t include this particular protein powder in our list of top recommendations, we do include other powders from the brand, which were not singled out by the report. To ensure the protein powder you choose is safe to consume and doesn’t have harmful levels of lead, it’s important to opt for brands that are third-party tested. Many of the brands on our list are third-party tested.
Editor’s Note
Our team of registered dietitians reviews and evaluates every single supplement we recommend according to our dietary supplement methodology.
Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs, and to find out what dosage to take.
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Independently verified
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Complete protein and good source of BCAAs
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Sustainably sourced from grass-fed cow’s milk
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Great taste, smooth texture, and dissolves easily
Key Specs
Protein Source: Organic whey protein isolate, organic milk protein | Vegan: No | Gluten-Free: Yes | Protein Per Serving: 24 grams | Independently verified: Yes, NSF Certifed for Sport and Informed Choice Certified
Why We Recommend It
Garden of Life SPORT Certified Grass Fed Whey is our top pick because it’s NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Choice Certified and provides 24 grams of high-quality whey protein. It’s also sustainably sourced—the whey comes from milk produced by grass-fed cows on sustainable Irish farms. Our testers loved the rich chocolate flavor and appreciated the smooth texture and how easily it dissolved.
One serving delivers 24 grams of protein from a combination of whey protein isolate and milk protein. There is an abundance of research on the benefits of whey as a protein source for muscle protein synthesis. In addition, the milk protein provides beneficial immunoglobulins—antibodies that produce an immune response in the body.
Garden of Life SPORT Certified Grass Fed Whey delivers all the essential amino acids, with 6 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and 4 grams of glutamine, both of which aid in muscle recovery and repair. In addition, the two billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of the probiotic B.lactis BL-04 may support immune health.
Things To Consider
Because this product is derived from milk, it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance. However. the amount of lactose found in whey isolate is very low, so typically is only an issue if you have an allergy or high sensitivity to lactose. Also, it does contain some emulsifiers, including sunflower lecithin and gums, which some may prefer to avoid because they are more processed ingredients.
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Key Specs
Protein Source: Organic whey protein concentrate | Vegan: No | Gluten-Free: No | Protein Per Serving: 19 grams | Independently verified: Yes, NSF Certified for Sport
Why We Recommend It
NOW Certified Organic Whey Protein is an unflavored whey protein made from organic milk. The milk used to create the powder is free of synthetic growth hormones (rBGH), antibiotics, and pesticides. “Whey protein is highly bioavailable and easily digested, making it an ideal choice in the post-workout time frame,” says Chrissy Carroll, MPH, RD, LDN, ACSM-cPT, USAT Level I Triathlon Coach, and RRCA Certified Running Coach. Whey protein also contains all the BCAAs, and Carroll notes that it’s a particularly good source of the amino acid leucine, which plays a role in recovery after exercise.
There are different types of whey to look out for on product packaging. Whey concentrate is 25 to 89 percent protein and has some lactose and fat. In comparison, whey isolate is made up of at least 90 percent protein, with less lactose and fat. “This powder’s only ingredient is organic whey protein concentrate (concentrated from organic milk), with no flavors, sweeteners, or additional added ingredients—making it a great product to mix into smoothies or add to baked goods,” says Carroll. It’s also NSF Certified for Sport, meaning that athletes routinely drug-tested can feel extra safe using this product.
It is sweetened with stevia and contains no added sugars. It’s also free of artificial flavorings and colorings, made with cocoa and other natural flavors.
Things To Consider
We noted that it tasted like watered-down milk when mixed with just plain water, so it would be a better option to blend into a smoothie or mixed with milk.
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Key Specs
Protein Source: Grass-fed Organic whey protein concentrate | Vegan: No | Gluten-Free: Yes | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Independently verified: Yes
Why We Recommend It
Natural Force Organic Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder is USDA Organic, Certified Gluten-Free, and independently verified for heavy metals and other contaminants. It is a single-ingredient, unflavored protein powder containing just whey protein concentrate. The unflavored version is versatile, but if you are looking for a flavored option, they also have chocolate and vanilla flavors with minimal ingredients.
Like the other whey protein powders on our list, this product is a highly bioavailable protein source with all essential amino acids and BCAAs. It’s a great option for athletes, as well as anyone looking to incorporate a convenient, quality protein into their diet.
Things To Consider
We like that the unflavored version is versatile, but we recommend mixing it into smoothies to get the best texture and taste. Mixed with just plain water, it does not fully dissolve, leaving a grainy texture and some clumps, and we also noticed a slight aftertaste.
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Smooth and creamy texture
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Complete vegan protein source
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Good source of iron and fiber
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No independent verification
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More processed, containing sugar alcohols and emulsifiers
Key Specs
Protein Source: Organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, organic chia seed | Vegan: Yes | Gluten-Free: Yes | Protein Per Serving: 21 grams | Independently verified: No
Why We Recommend It
Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is a great choice for those who can’t have dairy. “I prefer plant protein blends, like this one made of peas, brown rice, and chia seeds, since you tend to get a better variety of amino acids compared to one plant protein ingredient alone,” says Carroll. Amino acids are what makeup proteins, and some amino acids are limited in certain plant-based proteins. For example, lysine is present in very small amounts in grains, and methionine and cysteine are low in legumes. That’s why Carroll recommends plant-based proteins that come from a variety of food sources.
This organic plant-based protein powder has 21 grams of vegan protein and no added sugar. It’s also a good source of iron with 6.4 milligrams (35% Daily Value) and contains 7 grams of fiber per serving. Our testers liked how easily this powder dissolves in water and the smooth and creamy texture.
Things To Consider
This protein powder is slightly more processed than others on our list. It contains sugar alcohols (erythritol) and emulsifiers, including sunflower lecithin and oil, guar gum, and xantham gum. It also does not have any independent verification certifications.
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Key Specs
Protein Source: Organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, organic chia seed | Vegan: Yes | Gluten-Free: Yes | Protein Per Serving: 30 grams | Independently verified: Yes, NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Choice Certified
Why We Recommend It
Garden of Life SPORT Organic Plant-Based Protein is a vegan version of the top overall pick. Again, it is NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Choice for Sport Certified, ensuring there are no banned athletic substances or other potential contaminants in the powder. Our testers liked the smooth and creamy texture of this protein powder and noted it dissolved well when mixed with just water.
It’s made from a blend of organic pea protein, organic sprouted navy bean, organic sprouted lentil bean, organic sprouted garbanzo bean, and organic cranberry protein, making it a complete protein with all essential amino acids. It contains the highest amount of protein on our list, with 30 grams of protein per 2 scoops. It is sweetened with stevia and contains no added sugars. It’s also a good source of iron, with 6.7 milligrams (40% Daily Value) per serving.
It also includes an organic recovery blend with multiple antioxidant sources, such as organic tart cherries, apples, turmeric, goji berries, and blueberries. Antioxidants help prevent the inflammation associated with exercise, which may aid in recovery. Lastly, this protein powder contains probiotics that may support immune and digestive health.
Things To Consider
Our testers noted that this protein powder tasted very sweet, with a slight artificial taste that some may not enjoy.
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Contains a greens powder blend providing added nutrients and antioxidants
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Complete vegan protein source
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Good source of iron and vitamin K
Key Specs
Protein Source: Organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, organic sacha inchi powder | Vegan: Yes | Gluten-Free: Yes | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams
Why We Recommend It
Vega Protein & Greens Plant-Based Protein Powder is a protein powder with a wide variety of plant-based ingredients. The protein comes from organic peas, brown rice, and a seed called sacha inchi, containing 20 grams of protein per 1 scoop serving. It also contains a greens powder blend with organic alfalfa, spinach, broccoli, and organic kale, providing a nutrient and antioxidant boost. At 25% Daily Value each, it’s a good source of vitamin K and iron.
This powder is sweetened with stevia and contains no added sugar, artificial flavorings, or colorings. Our testers noted that it blended relatively well with an overall smooth texture but slight grittiness when mixed with just water.
Things To Consider
Our testers found this protein powder to have a relatively strong sweetness level (from stevia) and an artificial taste. However, if you have a sweet tooth, you may enjoy it. To mute the artificial sweet taste, it may be best blended into a smoothie. It also does not have any independent verification certifications.
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Great flavor and smooth texture
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Good source of vitamins and minerals
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Complete vegan protein source
Key Specs
Protein Source: Organic pea protein, organic flax seed, organic quinoa, organic pumpkin seed, organic chia seed | Vegan: Yes | Gluten-Free: Yes | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Independently verified: No
Why We Recommend It
Kos Organic Plant Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter has a delicious flavor that isn’t overpowering, so it works well mixed into water alone or blended into smoothies. It’s made with Peruvian cacao, Himalayan salt, organic coconut milk, a dash of stevia, and monk fruit, as well as five plant-based protein sources, including pea, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds. It contains 20 grams of protein per serving, including all essential amino acids, making it a complete vegan protein option.
The ingredients also include a fruit and veggie blend with apple, carrot, orange, cranberry, mushroom, and tomato, providing a boost of antioxidants. In addition, the powder has a vitamin and mineral blend that creates an impressive nutrient profile. One serving of Kos Organic Plant Protein has 30 percent Daily Value (DV) of iron, 45 percent DV of vitamin E, 35 percent DV of manganese, 45 percent DV of vitamin B12, 20 percent DV of zinc, 90 percent DV of copper, 60 percent DV chromium, and 70 percent DV molybdenum.
We love that this protein powder mixes well into smoothies and plain water, with a smooth texture and no grittiness or unpleasant aftertaste. Add it to water in a shaker bottle for a simple protein shake, or try it blended with your milk of choice and a frozen banana for a dessert-like, nutrient-dense smoothie.
Things To Consider
It contains a digestive enzyme blend that may improve digestion for some but lacks scientific evidence to prove the benefits of regular everyday use. It also does not have independent verification certifications and is not suitable for those with peanut or tree nut allergies. Note that because it contains added vitamins and minerals, if you are taking other supplements, such as a multivitamin, be sure you arent exceeding the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for any nutrients.
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.
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 products reduces 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.
Verywell Fit
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 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.
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.
For this article, the authors looked over the test results to help compile our top picks.
