16 Best-Tasting Protein Powders of 2024: Expert Tested Flavors and Nutrition
Discover the top-rated protein powders for every taste and dietary need, reviewed by editors and dietitians.
16 Best-Tasting Protein Powders of 2024
Protein powders have evolved from gritty, chalky supplements to genuinely delicious and versatile options designed to suit diverse dietary needs and palates. After taste-testing forty different protein powders, editors and nutrition experts selected the top sixteen that deliver both outstanding flavor and strong nutritional benefits. Whether you seek plant-based, whey, or innovative blends, this comprehensive guide will help you find the ideal option for your taste preference, lifestyle, and fitness goals.
Our Selection Criteria
- Flavor quality: Does it taste enjoyable with water or milk?
- Mixability: Does it blend easily and achieve a smooth consistency?
- Protein content per serving: Is it suitable for daily intake and recovery?
- Sweeteners and additives: Are artificial ingredients minimized?
- Third-party testing and transparency: Are products certified and contaminants-free?
The Best-Tasting Protein Powders in 2024
Below, find our expert reviews and highlights of top protein powders, organized by key attributes, source, and dietary suitability.
1. Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+
- Type: Plant-Based (Pea Protein)
- Protein per Serving: 20g
- Flavor Notes: Vanilla cake batter, mildly sweet
- Sweeteners: reb-m (fermented sugarcane), monk fruit
- Additional Benefits: Contains MCT oil for energy
- Mixability: Smooth blending, superior to most plant proteins
This shake garnered praise for its subtle, dessert-like vanilla flavor and balanced sweetness. Thanks to modern sweeteners reb-m and monk fruit, it delivers pleasant taste without excess sugar. MCT oil inclusion provides a pre-workout energy boost, making this an excellent choice for active lifestyles.
2. Cellucor Whey Sport Vanilla Protein Powder
- Type: Whey (Isolate & Concentrate)
- Protein per Serving: 30g
- Flavor Notes: Vanilla milkshake, smooth and not overly sweet
- Sweetener: Sucralose
- Mixability: Easy, blends into milk well
This protein powder stands out for its impressive protein content and flavor reminiscent of vanilla cupcakes or milkshake. It blends smoothly without bitterness or the artificial edge that sometimes mars vanilla options.
3. Legion Whey+
- Type: Whey Isolate (Grass-Fed)
- Protein per Serving: 22g
- Flavor Options: French Vanilla, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Hazelnut (20+ in total)
- Sweetener: Stevia, OvaSweet
- Mixability: Best via blender
- Certification: Truly Grass Fed™, third-party lab tested
Praised for its natural flavor profile and absence of artificial ingredients, Legion Whey+ offers a creamy taste, best enjoyed when blended. The brand guarantees transparency and purity, with lab certifications backing the product’s quality.
4. Orgain Vegan Protein Powder
- Type: Plant-Based (Pea, Brown Rice, Chia Seed)
- Protein per Serving: 21g
- Flavor Notes: Creamy, chocolate and vanilla variants
- Sweetener: Stevia, erythritol
- Mixability: Smooth, less gritty than most vegan powders
- Certifications: Organic, non-GMO
Orgain’s plant protein excels in taste and texture, earning top endorsements from dietitians for its creaminess and versatility. It blends well into shakes and smoothies, overcoming the gritty mouthfeel common among vegan powders.
What others are reading
5. Momentous Vegan Protein Powder
- Type: Plant-Based (Pea & Rice)
- Protein per Serving: 20g
- Flavor Options: Vanilla spice, chocolate
- Certification: NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Sport
- Mixability: Creamy, free of grit
Designed for athletes, Momentous delivers on taste and nutritional rigor with robust certifications and enjoyable, creamy flavors.
6. Vega Sport Protein Powder
- Type: Plant-Based (Pea, Pumpkin Seed, Sunflower Seed)
- Protein per Serving: 30g
- Flavor Options: Vanilla, mocha, chocolate
- Additional Ingredients: Bromelain, tart cherry, turmeric, probiotics
- Certifications: NSF Certified Sport
This powder provides an exceptionally high protein amount and includes functional ingredients for recovery, drawing praise for its clean, not overly sweet flavors and ease of mixing.
7. Clean Simple Eats Protein Powder
- Type: Whey-Based
- Protein per Serving: 20g
- Flavor Options: Chocolate brownie batter, coconut cream, mint chocolate cookie, vanilla
- Additional Nutrition: Calcium, iron, potassium
Clean Simple Eats stands out for its creative, dessert-inspired flavors and user-friendliness, consistently described as “tasting like an actual mint cookie.” Its easy digestibility makes it popular among sensitive stomachs, despite a tricky-to-reseal bag.
8. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
- Type: Whey (Blend of Isolate, Concentrate, Peptides)
- Protein per Serving: 24g
- Flavor Options: Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, more
- Certification: Informed Choice
- Mixability: Creamy, available in multiple sizes
Favored for its vanilla flavor and creamy texture, this classic powder packs plenty of protein without excess carbs. It does use artificial sweeteners, making it less suitable for certain dietary needs.
9. Orgain Organic Protein + Superfoods
- Type: Plant-Based
- Protein per Serving: 21g
- Added Nutrition: Greens & superfoods for antioxidants
This protein blend adds extra nutrition from organic greens and superfoods, supporting overall health while maintaining a enjoyable taste and clean ingredient profile.
10. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- Type: Collagen-Based
- Protein per Serving: 18g
- Flavor Options: Unflavored, vanilla, chocolate
- Mixability: Dissolves easily, versatile
- Benefits: Supports skin, joints, hair, and nails
This powder is ideal for those who prioritize joint and skin health, providing a low-flavor, easily dissolvable alternative to ordinary whey or plant protein.
How to Choose the Best Protein Powder
- Flavor Preferences: Classic (vanilla, chocolate), dessert-inspired, or fruit blends?
- Dietary Restrictions: Isolate (less lactose), fully plant-based, or collagen-specific?
- Protein Quantity: Most products offer 18–30g per serving. Choose higher for building muscle or post-workout recovery.
- Sweeteners and Additives: Seek natural sweeteners for fewer calories and no artificial aftertaste.
- Mixability: Powders that blend easily reduce texture complaints and improve usability.
- Third-Party Testing: NSF, Informed Choice, and other certifications can guarantee quality and purity.
Best Protein Powder Types Compared
| Type | Top Benefits | Best For | Sample Brands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whey Isolate | High protein, fast absorption, often lactose free | Post-workout, muscle recovery, low carb diets | Legion Whey+, Optimum Nutrition |
| Plant-Based (Pea, Brown Rice) | Dairy free, high fiber, often suitable for vegan diets | Plant-based diets, sensitive stomachs | Orgain, Vega Sport, Ritual |
| Collagen-Based | Joint and skin health, lightly flavored | Wellness support, mixing into hot/cold drinks | Vital Proteins |
| Blend/Novelty | Unique flavors, added vitamins/minerals | Taste variety, added functional nutrition | Clean Simple Eats |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there any clean, third-party certified protein powders?
A: Yes. Many brands such as Momentous, Vega Sport, and Legion Whey+ offer NSF or Informed Sport certifications, demonstrating rigorous third-party testing for quality and safety.
Q: Which protein powder is best for sensitive stomachs?
A: Plant-based options like Orgain Vegan Protein and Clean Simple Eats (whey-based) are popular with individuals who experience stomach discomfort from other powders. Always check for additives or allergens.
Q: Can I use protein powder for meal replacement?
A: While protein powder can supplement a meal, for balanced nutrition include fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Powders with superfoods or fiber (like Orgain + Superfoods) can help emulate meal profiles.
Q: How do I avoid the gritty texture of plant protein powders?
A: Select brands that use advanced blending techniques or specific plant proteins, such as Ritual Essential Protein and Momentous, which are praised for their creamy consistency.
Q: Are flavored protein powders healthy?
A: Flavored powders can be part of a balanced diet. Look for products free from excessive artificial sweeteners and additives, and choose naturally sweetened or certified organic brands for cleaner nutrition.
Tips for Maximizing Taste and Texture
- Always mix with cold milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative to enhance flavor and reduce grittiness.
- Use a blender for harder-to-dissolve powders (especially whey isolates or plant-based).
- Try creative recipes: Add powder to oatmeal, pancakes, smoothies, or baked goods.
- If novel flavors appeal to you, experiment with options like mint chocolate cookie or pumpkin pie inspired blends.
- Read reviews and certifications; user feedback is invaluable for reporting digestibility and taste authenticity.
Expert Insights: Why Taste Matters
Delicious protein powders encourage consistent use, supporting protein intake goals for muscle growth, recovery, and overall health. Recent advances in natural sweeteners, improved protein sources, and flavor science mean you no longer have to compromise on taste or texture. Dietitians and expert tasters recommend avoiding excessive sugar while prioritizing product purity and certification for performance and wellness.
Ingredient Guide: What Sets Top Powders Apart
- Protein Source: Consider your dietary needs—whey for fast absorption, plant-based for allergies or vegan diets.
- Sweeteners: Modern options like monk fruit, stevia, and reb-m provide clean sweetness with minimal calories.
- Additives: Look for powders fortified with vitamins, minerals, or functional foods (MCT oil, superfoods).
- Certifications: NSF, Informed Sport, Labdoor ensure transparent, safe production.
In Summary: Find Your Best Protein Powder
The protein powder market offers a delicious variety for every preference and lifestyle. This tested list lets you confidently browse options across plant-based, whey, and collagen categories, all scored for flavor, mixability, and nutrient profile. With clear labels, clean ingredients, and creative tastes, the right protein powder can elevate your nutrition—and your enjoyment.
References
- https://fortune.com/article/best-protein-powders/
- https://www.prevention.com/health/g64816772/best-protein-supplements-for-women/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/g61142786/best-tasting-protein-powder/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/g27044014/best-vegan-protein-powders/
- https://www.prevention.com/weight-loss/g27375782/best-protein-powder-for-weight-loss/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/g65189373/best-tasting-protein-shakes/
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