Best Organic Protein Powder, According to Nutrition Experts (2025): No Artificial Claims

When you embark on your quest to find the best protein powder, you might consider whether or not it’s casein, whey, pea, soy, and [insert all of the other types of proteins]-based. You might also consider whether it’s organic—but what does that even mean?

The best organic protein powders aren’t nutritionally better for you than non-organic protein powders. Rather, the term refers to how the ingredients were processed and manufactured, along with how the animals were treated (for dairy-based proteins) or what’s in the soil (for plant-based protein powders).

RELATED: Best Protein Bars

These protein powders can help athletes, bodybuilders, and everyday people fill nutritional gaps and make sure they hit their daily protein goals while giving them peace of mind that they’re ingesting only the best ingredients.

We’re a team of certified personal trainers, registered dietitians, competitive triathletes, and weightlifters who know the importance of high-quality ingredients. On top of scanning the ingredients lists for more than 100 protein powders and trying more than 75, our GGR supplement testing methodology looks at important factors such as:

• Formulation: Analyzing protein, carb, and fat content, plus total calories per serving. This can also include considerations around other ingredients, like flavorings or additives.
• Solubility: How well does this product dissolve in the suggested amount of liquid?
• Transparency: Since dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA, having an independent third-party lab verify that what’s on the label is what’s in the protein powder is super important, especially for athletes.
• Price per serving: Price per serving can range from $1.25 on the low end to upwards of $2 on the high end.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Best Organic Protein Powder for 2025

• Best Organic Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder
• Best Vegan Organic Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
• Best Grass-Fed Organic Protein Powder: Legion Whey+
• Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Gain: Organifi Complete Protein
• Best Organic Protein for Weight Loss: Ora Organic Vegan Protein Powder
• Best Gut-Friendly Organic Protein Powder: 1st Phorm Vegan Power Pro
• Best Tasting Organic Protein Powder: Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein
• Best Gluten-Free Organic Protein Powder: Vega Organic All-in-One Vegan Protein Powder

Compare Side By Side

	Transparent Labs Vegan Protein	Ritual Protein	Legion Whey+	Organifi Complete Protein	Ora Organic Plant-Based	1st Phorm Vegan Power Pro	Truvani Plant Protein	Vega Organic All-in-One Vegan Protein Powder
Rating Our expert product testers, who include certified personal trainers and coaches, use a multi-point testing methodology to determine average ratings out of 5 stars.						Coming Soon		Coming Soon
Price Per Serving	$1.67	$2.66	$2.00	$2.67	$2.50	$1.83	$3.00
Protein Per Serving	24 g	20 g	22 g		21 g		20 g	20 g
Type	Rice and pea isolate	Pea protein	Whey protein		Pea and rice protein		Pea, chia, and pumpkin seed
Third-party Tested?				—		—		—
Calories Per Serving	130	115	100		120		130
Flavors	2 flavors	1 flavor	17 flavors	Chocolate\, Vanilla	4 flavors	French Toast\, Key Lime Pie\, Iced Oatmeal Cookie\, Chocolate Mint Cookie\, Chocolate Frost\, Vanilla Creme	5 flavors
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Organic Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Good for: Those searching for an all-around, high-quality organic protein powder

Best Overall

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• A rice and pea protein powder 
• Rated with 4.3 stars on their website
• Comes in 2 flavors 
• 24 g of protein per serving
• Organic product with minimal ingredients

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives
• Organic and vegan
• Only 5-7 ingredients
• Reviewers love the taste
• 24 g of protein per serving
• Subscribe and save
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Only 2 flavors
• Stevia can cause GI issues for some
• Expensive

Bottom Line

This organic rice and pea protein powder is a good choice for people who want a clean plant-based protein option with minimal ingredients.

While Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder is our best all-around organic protein powder for vegan gym-goers, athletes, bodybuilders, and even non-vegan dieters largely because it sports the certified USDA Organic seal.

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Certified personal trainer and GGR writer Lauren Strong tried the chocolate flavor and said it’s not too bad for a vegan protein powder, scoring it a 4 out of 5. “It tastes like a dark chocolate drink (not milk chocolate) but with an earthy hint because of the rice and pea protein. I wouldn’t suggest this for people who like sweet protein drinks, though, as there isn’t that much sugar and you can really taste the cocoa powder.”

Lauren also scored the solubility a 4 out of 5 because there was a noticeable residue in the bottle and in her mouth. “It’s kind of like you can feel the cocoa powder,” she says.

Each scoop provides 24 grams of an organic protein blend of rice protein and pea protein powders, which Transparent Labs claims to offer a complete essential amino acid profile. And, of course, we fully appreciate how they evaluated and cited research studies to support their ingredients!

And if you’re worried about a vegan protein lacking protein integrity, let’s debunk why you shouldn’t be. Yes, vegan proteins are often deficient in lysine—an essential and branched-chain amino acid—but rice protein has some of the highest lysine contents. Research⁶ also tells us organic brown rice protein isolate can be used in place of animal and dairy-based options without losing essential nutrient value. 

When compared to other animal-derived and commercially available proteins, a study in the Nutrition Journal⁷ suggests whey and rice protein isolate can improve body composition and exercise performance. Additional research⁸ supports that pea and rice proteins are promising allergen-friendly proteins. 

The protein powder is also a good source of vegan-friendly iron and free of GMOs, added sugar, soy, and “artificial junk” like artificial sweeteners, coloring, and preservatives. It also comes in two classic chocolate and french vanilla flavors with a subscribe and save option for 10% off and free shipping. 

Transparent Labs makes some of the best protein powder for men, women, and anyone else trying to increase their protein intake, and the fact that all their flavors are pretty good.

And last, but certainly not least, Transparent Labs is, well, totally transparent. If you’re curious about the fine details, you can view its Certificate of Analysis—conducted by a third-party lab—by simply searching for the lot number denoted on your selected product. 

Protein Source(s)	Organic rice protein and organic pea protein isolate
Nutrition Info	Calories: 130-140 (Chocoalte/Vanilla) Carbs: 3-5 g (Vanilla/Chocolate) Sugars: 2g Fiber: 3 g Fat: 2.5-3 g (Vanilla/Chocolate)
Key ingredients	Organic rice protein, organic pea protein isolate, organic stevia extract
Protein Content	24 g per 1 scoop (32 g) serving
Flavor Option(s)	French Vanilla and Chocolate
Cost	$49.99/30 servings = $1.67/serving

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Best Vegan Organic Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

Good for: Plant-based connoisseurs who’d be delighted with a decked-out organic vegan protein powder

Best Vegan

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

GGR Score: 4.4

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Product Highlights

• Organic pea protein powder
• 20 g of protein per serving
• Formulated to support adults 18-49
• Third-party tested
• 150 mg of choline per serving 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly
• No artificial sweeteners
• Complete amino acid profile
• Non-GMO
• USA-grown peas

Cons

• Only comes in one flavor
• Price per serving is on the high end
• Velcro bag closure ineffective

Bottom Line

Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake has 20 grams of protein per serving and 150 milligrams of chlorine (to support brain and nervous system function). This protein powder from Ritual is third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified, which means this formula has been screened for over 250 banned substances.

Ritual is one of the best plant-based protein powders we’ve tested to-date. But the plant-based protein is not its only highlight: All of its ingredients, down to the fermented sugarcane used to sweeten the powder, are organic and it has great taste, according to certified personal trainer and competitive weightlifter Kate Meier, who’s GGR’s head of content.

“Even just with water, this has a nice taste. It’s not super plant-y or hemp-y like some plant-based proteins are,” Kate says in our Ritual Protein Powder review. “There is a very slight chalky aftertaste with water, but I could drink this with water alone and be fine with it.” The taste landed at a 4 out of 5 but the solubility was a 5 out of 5. “This has a shockingly great consistency. Mixed in water, it dissolves, and it also has a really smooth texture. It’s not thick, but it’s not watery like some proteins are.”

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Third-party tested and committed to using “clean” ingredients, the protein is Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s been tested for banned substances and is safe for us by all athletes. Plus, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it out before committing.

Speaking of commitment, Ritual is a subscription-based company so you can’t just order a single pack (though you can cancel future deliveries if you don’t think it’s right for you).

Protein Source(s)	Organic pea protein
Nutrition Info	Calories: 115 Carbs: 3 g Sugars: 0g Fiber: 3 g Fat: 2 g
Key ingredients	Organic pea protein, methionine, organic monk fruit extract
Protein Content	20 g protein per 1-scoop serving (30g)
Flavor Option(s)	Vanilla
Cost	$40/15 servings

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Best Grass-Fed Organic Protein Powder: Legion Whey+

Good for: Those who want to reap the benefits of grass-fed dairy

Best Organic

Legion Whey+

GGR Score: 4

Check Price Use code GARAGEGYM to save 20%

Product Highlights

• Sourced from small dairy farms in Ireland
• Over 5 g of BCAAs per serving
• Non-GMO and animal welfare approved
• Third-party tested for banned substances

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Low in carbs and fat but high in protein
• Natural ingredients
• Money-back guarantee
• Made with ethically-sourced milk
• Lots of flavor options
• Subscribe and save 10%

Cons

• Comparably high cost per serving
• May be clumpy when mixed
• Some customers thought flavor was too sweet, or in some cases lacked flavor

Bottom Line

Legion Whey+ is a clean, sustainable protein powder that also is macro-friendly and a great option for anyone looking for a clean protein supplement. Many of our testers have bought this with their own money because they love the taste and easy mixability.

Legion Whey+ bears a Truly Grass Fed certification, meaning the cows that produced the dairy lived as nature intended — eating a diet of mostly grass and being free of artificial ingredients, growth hormones, or antibiotics.

And yes, grass-fed dairy does make a difference. According to studies, grass-fed dairy contains more nutrients and a more optimal omega-3/omega-6 ratio than milk from conventionally raised cows.

Additionally, Legion’s protein powders are tested by third-party lab Labdoor to make sure it’s free of heavy metals and toxins, giving it a 5 out of 5 for transparency.

Certified personal trainer and nutrition coach Anthony O’Reilly rates the Cinnamon Cereal a 4.5 out of 5, saying it tastes like the bottom of a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

Learn more about why this is one of our top picks for best organic whey protein powder in our Legion whey protein review.

Protein Source(s)	Whey protein isolate
Nutrition info	Calories: 100-110 (varies by flavor) Carbs: 2-6 g (varies by flavor) Sugars: 0 g Fiber: 0-1 g (varies by flavor) Fat: 0-3 g (varies by flavor)
Key ingredients	Whey protein isolate, stevia
Protein Content	19-22 g (varies by flavor)
Flavor Option(s)	15+
Cost	$59.99/30

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Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Gain: Organifi Complete Protein

Good for: Those who want to increase their caloric intake without eating artificial ingredients

Best for Weight Gain

Organifi Complete Protein

GGR Score: 3.75

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Product Highlights

• 20 g of plant-based protein per serving
• Contains whole food vitamins and minerals
• Certified organic ingredients
• Soy-free, gluten-free, and whey-free
• Available in chocolate and vanilla flavors

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Certified organic
• Minimal ingredients
• Whole food vitamins and minerals
• Money-back guarantee
• Soy-free, gluten-free, and whey-free

Cons

• Only available in two flavors
• Pricier protein

Bottom Line

Made with certified organic ingredients, Organifi Complete Protein is a plant-based protein blend with 20 grams of protein per serving. Available in chocolate and vanilla flavors, this protein is soy-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it great for people avoiding certain allergens—although it does contain tree nuts (coconuts).

Increasing your caloric intake to gain weight doesn’t have to involve “dirty bulks” or consuming artificial ingredients. Organifi Complete Protein packs 170 total calories with 20 grams of protein while using all-natural ingredients and providing a digestive enzyme blend to help with the larger caloric intake (anyone who’s gone on a “bulk” will tell you that eating more could cause some stomach issues).

Our expert tester scored the formulation 4 out of 5 stars. A point was docked because we’d ideally like to see the protein content a bit higher (25 grams or more would warrant a 5-star rating from us).

Additionally, it contains whole food sources to help ensure you meet your micronutrient intake.

It’s on the expensive side, at $3.05 per serving. However, we’ve seen it go on sale and there are subscribe and save options to get that price per serving number under $3. Either way, you’ll still be paying over $2 per serving. For this reason, we scored this category 1 out of 5 stars.

We have more details on the formulation, taste, and solubility in our in-depth Organifi Complete Protein review.

Protein Source(s)	Organic pea protein, organic flax seed, organic quinoa, organic pumpkin seed protein
Nutrition info	Calories: 160-170 (varies by flavor) Carbs: 8 g Sugars: 2 g Fiber: 3 g Fat: 6 g
Key ingredients	Organic pea protein, organic flax seed, organic quinoa, organic pumpkin seed protein, digestive blend, organic coconut sugar
Protein Content	18-20 g protein (varies by flavor) per 1-scoop serving (39g)
Flavor Option(s)	Vanilla, Chocolate
Cost	$79.95/30 servings

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Best Organic Protein for Weight Loss: Ora Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Good for: Those who have weight-loss goals and care about organic products

Best for Weight Loss

Ora Organic Daily Superfood Plant Protein

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Plant-based superfood protein
• Comes in 4 delicious flavors
• 4.2 stars on Amazon with 5,000 reviews
• Free of dairy, gluten, and soy
• Vegan and paleo
• Includes 19 organic superfoods

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Non-GMO, vegan, paleo, and organic
• Plant-based product
• Third-party tested
• Contains 19 organic superfoods
• Free of many common allergens

Cons

• Contains coconut
• A little pricey
• Stevia can cause GI distress in some people
• Some reviewers do not enjoy the taste

Bottom Line

Ora is a well-known brand with positive reviews. It's a good option for those looking for a very clean, organic vegan protein powder.

Besides bearing a USDA Organic mark and having a good macronutrient profile, Ora Organic Vegan Protein can be a useful weight loss tool due to its protein, superfood, and greens blend. This blend contains multiple whole food ingredients that help boost the amount of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Researchers have found that obese individuals consume fewer vitamins and minerals, and people who tried to lose weight had a better chance if they focused on reaching their micronutrient goals.

Of course, protein powders shouldn’t replace whole foods entirely but from a weight loss perspective it couldn’t hurt to take care of two nutritional needs with one product. In terms of calories, you get 130 calories and 22 grams of protein per scoop (for the Vanilla Chai flavor we tested). There’s 3 grams of fat, and 3 grams of carbohydrates, which is a little more than we typically like to see in a protein powder but we’ll still rate the formulation a 4 out of 5.

In addition to pea protein, Ora Organic uses rice protein, sprouted quinoa, and other plant-based complementary proteins ensure a complete amino acid profile, which is important, especially for plant-based eaters. 

On taste, certified nutrition coach and GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly rated the Vanilla Chai flavor a 4 out of 5. “I’d say it’s more chia-flavored than actual chai,” Anthony says. “It’s still very good, I just like my chai to have a little more spice to it. I would drink this again.”

The solubility, he says, is a 5 out of 5 and mixed easily with a shaker ball. They’re also third-party tested with certificates of analysis available online.

Protein Source(s)	Organic Pea Protein, Organic Rice Protein, Organic Cranberry, Organic Sacha Inchi, Organic Sprouted Quinoa, Organic Amaranth
Nutrition info	Calories: 120-130 (varies by flavor) Carbs: 2-5 g (varies by flavor) Sugars: 0 Fiber: 1.8-2 g (varies by flavor) Fat: 3 g
Key ingredients	Organic Pea Protein, Organic Rice Protein, Organic Cranberry, Organic Sacha Inchi, Organic Sprouted Quinoa, Organic Amaranth, Amylase, Neutral Protease, Lactase, Lipase, Cellulase
Protein Content	22-23 g per 2-scoop serving (varies by flavor)
Flavor Option(s)	Chocolate, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai, Unsweetened
Cost	$49.99/20 servings = $2.25/serving

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Best Gut-Friendly Organic Protein Powder: 1st Phorm Vegan Power Pro

Good for: Those who sometimes have upset stomachs after taking protein powder

Best Gut-Friendly

1st Phorm Vegan Power Pro

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Product Highlights

• Plant-based and soy-free
• Digestive enzyme blend for easier digestion
• No artificial sweeteners
• $1.83 per serving

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Allergen-friendly
• Digestive enzymes to help with digestion
• 6 flavor options
• No artificial sweeteners

Cons

• Expensive

Bottom Line

1st Phorm Vegan Power Pro is free from most allergens and comes with a digestive enzyme blend to aid the digestion, decreasing the likelihood of upset stomachs.

Many people’s complaint about protein powder is it leaves them with an upset stomach—not the case with 1st Phorm Vegan Power Pro. It contains none of the common allergens, such as soy, dairy, and gluten, and has a digestive enzyme blend. Like the other organic protein powders on this list, it has no GMOs or artificial ingredients.

We’re always pleased to see a vegan protein powder that uses complementary proteins — in this case, pea and rice protein— to create a complete protein for muscle growth, and with 110 calories it can also be used for those looking to lose weight. With 19 grams of protein, it gets a 5 out of 5 on formulation.

Caine Wilkes, an Olympic weightlifter who represented the United States at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, rates the Vanilla Creme flavor a 3 out of 5 when mixed with both water and almond milk. “With the water base, it was a bit thinner and the flavor didn’t come through,” he says. “I will say there was much more of an aftertaste in the almond milk sample: sort of a grainy, oat-like taste. The stevia came through a bit as well, and tasted artificial.”

Regarding solubility, he gave it a 4 out of 5. “The protein mixed fairly well with water, although there was a little residue that settled at the bottom,” Caine says in our 1st Phorm protein review. “It stuck to the sides of the cup a bit as well.”

Protein Source(s)	Organic pea and rice protein
Nutrition info	Calories: 100-110 (varies by flavor) Carbs: 3 g Sugars: 0 g Fiber: 1 g Fat: 2 g
Key ingredients	Pea protein, rice protein, whole food ingredients
Protein Content	19 g protein per 1-scoop serving (27.8g)
Flavor Option(s)	Chocolate Frost, Chocolate Mint Cookie, Key Lime Pie, Iced Oatmeal Cookie, Vanilla Creme
Cost	$54.99/30 servings

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Best Tasting Organic Protein Powder: Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein

Good for: Those who enjoy the satisfying taste of decadent flavors, gains, and health

Best Tasting

Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Made with 6 organic ingredients
• Rich chocolate flavor
• A USDA-certified organic, vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and non-GMO product
• 20 grams of protein per serving
• Has 4.4/5 stars on Amazon and 14,000+ reviews
• #4 in Sports Nutrition Pea Protein Powders on Amazon
• Store in a cool and dry place

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No added sugars or stevia
• Does not have a chalky or grainy taste
• Reviewers love the chocolate flavor
• Paleo-friendly
• Organic
• Vegan
• Certified gluten-free

Cons

• Expensive (about $2.50 per serving)
• Made in a facility that processes wheat, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, peanuts, and eggs

Bottom Line

The chocolate flavor is a fan favorite, especially on Amazon, as Truvani’s Chocolate Protein Powder is rated #4 in Sports Nutrition Pea Protein Powders at the time of writing. We’ve found that reviewers love this product for its taste and simple ingredients.

This isn’t the first time Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein ranks our list as one of the best-tasting protein powders. And given it only contains a slim list of simple ingredients, all without any artificial sweeteners and flavorings, this is quite impressive.

This is the only plant-based protein powder that received a 5 out of 5 on taste from certified sports nutrition coach and GGR senior staff writer Amanda Capritto. “This stuff is truly tasty, like an ultra-rich chocolate shake when mixed with almond milk,” she says. “The best part: There’s barely a hint of that typical plant-based protein chalkiness.”

In terms of protein, Truvani provides 20 grams per serving sourced from organic pea, pumpkin seed, and chia seed concentrates. Pumpkin seeds¹⁰ and chia seeds⁸ are densely packed with nutrients—like essential amino acids, healthy fats, and antioxidants—and can help lower inflammation, improve blood pressure and glucose levels, and offer additional health benefits. 

Truvani offers an unflavored option and a variety of flavors to choose from, including Chocolate, Vanilla, Banana Cinnamon, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Chai. If you’re finding it hard to settle on just one flavor, you’re in luck! You can also purchase a single-serve variety pack complete with seven options, making it simple to sample the flavors or keep your tastebuds curious. 

Joining the USDA Organic seal, you’ll find that Truvani’s organic protein powder is also certified vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. It’s also free of dairy and soy so diets of all sorts can confidently try and enjoy Truvani’s organic plant-based protein. We have more details about our experience in our in-depth Truvani Protein Powder review.

Protein Source(s)	Organic pea protein concentrate, organic pumpkin seed concentrate, organic chia seed protein concentrate
Nutrition info	Calories: 100-140 (varies by flavor) Carbs: Varies by flavor Sugars: Varies by flavor Fiber: Varies by flavor Fat: Varies by flavor
Key ingredients	Organic pea protein, chia seed protein, monk fruit extract
Protein Content	20 g per 1 scoop serving (33 g)
Flavor Option(s)	Chocolate, Vanilla, Banana Cinnamon, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Chai
Cost	$59.99/20 servings = $3.00

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Best Gluten-Free Organic Protein Powder: Vega Organic All-in-One Vegan Protein Powder

Good for: Gluten-free (and other) dieters searching for an organic protein powder with all the bells and whistles

Best Gluten-Free

Vega Organic All-in-One Vegan Protein Powder

GGR Score: 3.75

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Product Highlights

• 6 flavors and unflavored option
• Plant-based and organic protein 
• Added vitamins for immune support 
• 4.6 stars on Amazon with over 6,000 reviews
• USDA organic and non-GMO verified

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Keto, organic, and vegan
• A gluten-free product
• Includes probiotics and fiber
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Cons

• Expensive
• Stevia can cause GI issues for some
• Reviews of the taste are mixed

Bottom Line

From a nutritional standpoint, Vega Organic Vegan Protein Powder is a one-stop shop for supporting muscle growth and digestive health with all organic ingredients, but it is pricey.

What is Organic Protein Powder?

Organic protein powders are protein powders that use natural ingredients and have the USDA Organic mark and/or only use organic ingredients, or natural ingredients grown the old-fashioned way and are free of synthetic (man-made) or genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). Organic foods are also not sprayed with pesticides (more on that in a second). Like any protein powder, they’re used to help increase your protein intake or even act as a meal replacement for people on the go (so long as you’re eating an appropriate amount of calories).

Here’s the thing: Some people want to only eat organic foods, and there’s nothing wrong with that. We’re here to help you out. Understand, however, that an organic diet doesn’t necessarily mean a “better” diet. A review of hundreds of studies found that while eating organic food is often linked to “overall healthier dietary practices and lower levels of overweight and obesity,” the researchers said “the current evidence base does not allow a definitive statement on the long-term health benefits of organic dietary intake.”

One reason for this is a large part of that evidence is based on observational studies carried out in real life. They often involve people filling out questionnaires or being supervised for a relatively short amount of time, and there are many other variables that could affect the outcome. The researchers say clinical research trials, which directly study the effect a certain treatment (such as a diet) has on human health and are often done in labs, have been less conclusive.

Back to the pesticides. The researchers say there’s simply not enough evidence to suggest they should be a widespread health concern. (We recognize that some people can’t, or don’t want to, eat foods sprayed with pesticides). “There is insufficient evidence to show translation into clinically relevant and meaningful health outcomes,” the researchers say. “There is a need for studies to move beyond simply measuring the reduction in pesticide exposure with organic food, to investigating measurable health benefits.”

Organic Food and Labels 101

Let’s quickly debrief what “organic” truly entails, specifically that “USDA Organic” label. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)¹ describes certified organic foods as being “grown and processed according to federal guidelines addressing, among many factors, soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of additives.” 

Organic producers rely on natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming methods to the fullest extent possible. The definition of “organic” also varies depending on the food being discussed: 

• Organic produce is certified to have grown on soil that had no prohibited substances—like most synthetic fertilizers and pesticides—applied for three years prior to harvest. If a grower must use a synthetic substance, it must first be approved according to criteria that examine its effects on human health and the environment.

• Organic animal products—like meat and dairy—are fed with 100% organic feed and forage and produced without antibiotics or growth hormones. Regulations also require that the animals must be raised in living conditions that accommodate their natural behaviors, including the ability to graze on pasture. 

• Organic multi-ingredient and processed foods must contain organic ingredients and be free of artificial ingredients like preservatives, colors, or flavors. Some minor exceptions include processed organic foods that may contain some approved non-agricultural ingredients like enzymes in yogurt and baking soda in baked goods.

In tandem with understanding how organic can vary between foods, it’s also important to understand the four labeling categories for organic products²: 

• “100% Organic” products must be made up entirely of 100% certified organic ingredients. The label must include the name of the certifying agent and may include the USDA Organic Seal and/or the 100% organic claim. 

• “Organic” products must contain at least 95% of organic ingredients, must include the name of the certifying agent, and may include the USDA Organic Seal and/or the organic claim.

• “Made with” organic ingredients tells us at least 70% of the product contains certified organic ingredients. The USDA Organic Seal cannot be used on the product nor represented as organic. 

• “Specific organic ingredients” denotes that the product contains less than 70% of certified organic ingredients. These products cannot use the USDA Organic Seal or display “organic” on the principal display panel, which is the front of the package consumers most often see first. 

Now, this begs the question, “Is organic the better choice?” 

Is Organic Better?

This is a pretty loaded question and the answer often varies based on who you ask, but we’ll lean on what the research tells us to form our best judgment. 

From an environmental perspective, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations suggests organic agriculture lessens pollution, promotes food sustainability, and reduces non-renewable energy. It also encourages biodiversity—defined as the variability among living organisms from all sources—and a 2011 study³ suggests biodiversity is one of the most important resources on earth while being threatened by human activities. 

Animal welfare is another reason why farmers and consumers choose organic. The Organic Trade Association⁴ tells us animals raised organically are free of antibiotics or synthetic growth hormones and instead provided with 100% organic feed and open access to the outdoors to freely roam. 

Looking through the nutritional lens, organic foods and crops might have an upper hand compared to conventional products. According to a study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture⁵, organic crops contain fewer nitrates, nitrites, and pesticide residues but often more dry matter, vitamin C, phenolic compounds, essential amino acids, and total sugars than conventional crops. Organic crops also tend to contain more mineral compounds and have better long-term storage qualities.

But not all that glitters is gold, as there is a negative to highlight: plants cultivated in organic systems generally have 20% lower yields than conventionally produced crops. This is the major reason why organic products tend to come with a higher price tag. 

We’ll close out the organic chat with this: If your weekly grocery allowance is set in stone, we’d first encourage purchasing nutrient-dense foods over splurging on organic foods. But if you have wiggle room in your budget to spend on organic foods, and choosing organic is important to you, we can’t wait to show you our top organic protein powder picks!

RELATED: Best Protein Powder for Women

Other Organic Protein Powders We Researched

While there are plenty of protein powders on the market, fewer are certified organic. However, other great organic protein powders we researched and approve of, just haven’t tried yet, include:

• Aloha Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder
• Sakara Organic Protein + Greens Super Powder
• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Based Protein Powder
• Purely Inspired Plant-Based Organic Protein
• Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah! Max Protein 

How We Picked and Tested the Best Organic Protein Powder

Our selection process is a rigorous one—we analyze the ingredients, the reputability of the product and brand, and that’s just scratching the surface. Below discloses how we picked and tested the best organic protein powders.

Protein Content

A protein powder should, well, provide adequate protein. An ideal protein powder should provide at least 20 grams of protein per serving, with lower protein content often found in vegan-based powders. 

The only product on our list that contains less than 20 grams is NOW Sports Organic Whey Protein Powder, which provides 19 grams of protein per serving. However, it’s important to note this is based on a 24-gram scoop and is a concentrated source of protein, as Ora’s 30-gram serving provides 21 grams of protein.

High-Quality Ingredients

Because we want to fuel and recover optimally, our selection process focuses on ingredient quality. All of our top picks not only use organic ingredients but are free of added sugars, unnecessary fillers, and other unwanted ingredients.

Mixability

Have you ever been so excited to try a new protein powder only to chew the clumps before choking it down? If you have, we’re sorry and understand the disappointment. If you haven’t, avoid the disgust by leaning on this smooth list of mixable powders. 

(But also please know vegan protein powders are naturally thicker in consistency and that we selected the best plant-based mixers on the market.)

Verifications and Certifications

Of course, all of the best organic protein powders are USDA-certified organic. But we also search for products that undergo strict testing and show off other badges of honor, including being NSF certified and gluten-free.

Variety

As they say, “Variety is the protein powder of life!” Errr… Or something like that. We made sure to capture products that fit the bill of various dietary and flavor preferences, whether that may be a chocolatey vegan powder, unflavored whey-based powder, and everything far and in between. 

Price

Splurged on a new gym toy and need a more budget-friendly protein powder? Or, do you prefer using your hard-earned dollars for a pricier product? 

While all of our selections are decently cost-friendly, you’ll never see a product list without varying price points to best accommodate your budget. Most of our selections can be purchased with “subscribe and save” options as well. 

Brand Reputation

How you build trust with a brand is personal—and that’s okay! But we do encourage being mindful and thoughtful when evaluating a brand’s reputation. We personally review:

• Whether or not their products undergo third-party testing
• If customer support is easily and readily accessible
• Brand and product reviews from their consumers on their company websites, seller sites like Amazon, special media profiles, etc.
• Return policies and money-back guarantees 

If you’re going to financially support a company and its products, it’s smart to have this information—which isn’t totally cumbersome to find out with info right at our fingertips.

Benefits of Organic Protein Powder

While we’ve already nuanced the benefits of organic protein powder, let’s determine how choosing organic might be worth the spend:

Hit Daily Protein Needs

First and foremost, supplementing a balanced diet with protein powder is a great way to meet your daily protein goals. Protein is an essential macronutrient to carry out thousands of critical reactions, support a strong immune system, sustain and build muscle, and so much more. 

Peace Of Mind

You are absolutely not a “bad” person for not choosing organic! But it can give consumers peace of mind knowing the product has checked the boxes of rigorous standards to be certified organic. It’s also telling that supplement companies that undergo organic protocols are committed to providing high-quality products. 

Shelf-Stable

Unless plant-based, protein sources—like beef, chicken, and fish—require refrigeration. Protein powders, on the other hand, are shelf-stable and can transport without the worry of keeping cold or going rancid. Post-workout nutrition has never been more convenient!

Cost-Effective

Organic products tend to be costlier compared to conventional goods. But have you ever bought a pound of chicken breasts only to *accidentally* let it expire? Not only is that wasting food, but throwing away at least an Abraham Lincoln and some George Washingtons. 

Versatile

Simply mix with water for a quick post-workout protein shake, blend into smoothies, add to oatmeal, stir into yogurt… You get the idea—protein powder is extremely versatile to boost your daily protein intake. 

Dosing & Interactions

So now that you’ve *almost* decided which protein is right for you, how much protein should you aim for? Are there any interactions you should be aware of? Let’s explore protein dosing and potential interactions. 

Protein Dosing

The amount of protein you need depends on a wide range of factors, including age, birth sex, activity levels, and even your body composition goals. A general starting point to determine your protein needs is by using the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI), which is 0.80 grams of protein per kilogram (g/kg) of body weight or 0.36 grams of protein per pound (g/lb) of body weight. For someone who weighs 150 pounds, this amounts to about 54 grams of protein per day.

RELATED: Best Casein Protein Powder

However, it’s important to note DRIs express the lowest daily intake value for a nutrient. Research¹² suggests aiming for at least 1.2 to 1.6 g/kg of high-quality protein is a more ideal target for optimal health.

Protein needs also vary based on body composition and performance goals. For instance, if weight loss is your goal, upwards of 2.0 g/kg may protect from lean muscle loss while in a caloric deficit. Aiming for 1.2-2.0 g/kg each day shows to support athletic performance and recovery, according to supportive data.¹³

Now with an idea of your daily protein needs, it’s important to still focus on consuming high-protein foods. Of course, protein supplements still have their time and place, but they’re called supplements for a reason—they’re meant to supplement a balanced diet filled with whole foods and not take the place of one. 

Protein Powder Interactions

While protein interactions are not overly common, they are still worth noting. According to WebMD¹⁴, whey protein may interfere with how effectively some medications—like Levodopa and some antibiotics are absorbed. On the other hand, pea and other plant-based proteins have no noted interactions at this time. 

All-in-all, protein powders—organic or not—tend to be well-tolerated by most. But for any questions regarding dosing and interactions, we recommend consulting with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). 

RELATED: Best Protein Chips

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Organic Protein Powder

Before purchasing out of impulse, allow us to guide you through finding the best organic protein powder for you. Let’s navigate exactly what you should be looking for and considering when selecting your protein partner: 

• Protein content and sourcing: You should ideally choose a protein powder that supplies you with about 20 grams or more of protein per serving. Also, consider the type of protein source to align with your dietary needs and preferences whether it be a whey protein isolate or lactose and dairy-free vegan powder.

• Carbohydrates and fat content: Carbs and fats are essential macronutrients but they aren’t exactly necessary in a protein powder. However, if you’re looking for a protein powder to use as a meal replacement, including carbs and fats helps balance out the sippable meal. 

• Additional ingredients: While protein should be the highlight of your protein powder purchase, some products contain additional ingredients. We encourage selecting products with beneficial ingredients—like probiotics, fiber, vitamins, and minerals—over others that contain added sugars and other unnecessary ingredients.

• Certifications: When selecting an organic protein powder, be sure to select a protein powder that is Certified USDA Organic—all of our top picks check this box. Also be aware of other types of certifications and verifications that are important to you, including Certified Gluten-Free and Informed Sport.

• Flavor preference: …Or lack thereof. Some organic protein powders are unflavored so you can mix them into smoothies or even baked goods without altering the flavor. A word of advice: Choose a flavor—or non-flavor—that you will enjoy.

• Your budget: Organic products tend to be higher in cost, with some protein powders being more budget-friendly than others. Some brands, like Ora, offer single-serve packets—this is a great way to try before you buy a larger, costlier tub of organic protein powder. You can also “subscribe and save” with most protein powders, bearing in mind you’ve already tried and are committed to the product for at least one month. 

RELATED: What Is Erythritol?

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

FAQs About Organic Protein Powder

References:

1. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Organic 101: What the USDA Organic Label Means. 2012 Mar.
2. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Understanding the USDA Organic Label. 2016 Jul.
3. Rahmann G. Biodiversity and Organic farming: What do we know?. Landbauforschung Volkenrode. 2011(61)189-208.
4. Organic Trade Association. How are animals raised organically?
5. Rembiałkowska E. Quality of plant products from organic agriculture. J Sci Food Agric. 2007;87(15):2757-2762. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.3000
6. Kalman DS. Amino Acid Composition of an Organic Brown Rice Protein Concentrate and Isolate Compared to Soy and Whey Concentrates and Isolates. Foods. 2014;3(3):394-402. Published 2014 Jun 30. doi:10.3390/foods3030394
7. Joy JM, Lowery RP, Wilson JM, et al. The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance. Nutr J. 2013 Jun 20;12:86. doi: 10.1186/1475-2891-12-86. PMID: 23782948; PMCID: PMC3698202.
8. Zhao H, Shen C, Wu Z, et al. Comparison of wheat, soybean, rice, and pea protein properties for effective applications in food products. J Food Biochem. 2020;44(4). doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jfbc.13157
9. Grancieri M, Martino HSD, Gonzalez de Mejia E. Chia Seed (Salvia hispanica L.) as a Source of Proteins and Bioactive Peptides with Health Benefits: A Review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2019 Mar;18(2):480-499. doi: 10.1111/1541-4337.12423. Epub 2019 Feb 12. PMID: 33336944.
10. Dotto JM, Chacha JS. The potential of pumpkin seeds as a functional food ingredient: A review. Sci Afr. 2020;10:e00575. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00575
11. Bulut-Solak B, Akin N. Health benefits of whey protein: a review. J Food Eng. 2012;2(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.17265/2159-5828/2012.03.001
12. Phillips SM, Chevalier S, Leidy HJ. Protein “requirements” beyond the RDA: implications for optimizing health. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2016 May;41(5):565-72. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0550. Epub 2016 Feb 9. Erratum in: Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2022 May;47(5):615. PMID: 26960445.
13. Carbone JW, Pasiakos SM. Dietary Protein and Muscle Mass: Translating Science to Application and Health Benefit. Nutrients. 2019;11(5):1136. Published 2019 May 22. doi:10.3390/nu11051136
14. WebMD. Whey Protein—Uses, Side Effects, and More.

Sydney Lappe, R.D.

Sydney Lappe is a St. Louis-based Registered Dietitian with 6+ years of nutrition editing and writing experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and completed undergrad work in psychology. While fitness wasn’t in Sydney’s routine growing up, it quickly became a large part of her daily life while studying the facets of health and nutrition. Also managing chronic pain, she has come to fully realize movement is a special gift to never take for granted and hopes to inspire others to invest in their physical, mental, and emotional wellness while they can. Including her passion for all things health, Sydney enjoys spending time with her loved ones, being active in various capacities, drinking bottomless cups of coffee, eating a hearty bowl of oatmeal, and letting her creativity roam through writing and graphic design.

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