Choosing the best vegan protein powder in 2018 meant balancing clean labels, complete amino profiles, and traceable sourcing. Environmentally conscious lifters sought plant-based blends that supported performance without dairy or artificial additives while staying within realistic budgets.
This overview organizes top options by category, key specifications, and practical factors you can evaluate quickly. Use the data below as a foundation before you compare current launches and updated formulas.
| Brand | Primary Protein Source | Serving Protein (g) | Key Vegan Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden of Life Sport | Pea, Sprouted Brown Rice, Oat | 30 | Certified Vegan |
| Purition | Pea, Hemp, Brown Rice | 22 | Vegan Society |
| Vega One | Pea, Brown Rice, Alfalfa | 30 | Non-GMO Project Verified |
| Sunwarrior Warrior Blend | Goji, Hemp, Pea | 20 | Certified Vegan |
| MRM Veggie Elite | Brown Rice, Pea, Pumpkin Seed | 24 | Vegan |
Evaluating Complete Amino Acid Profiles
Why Combining Plant Proteins Matters
A strong best vegan protein powder in 2018 highlighted complementary sources like pea, rice, and hemp to deliver a more complete amino acid pattern. Brands that combined multiple plant proteins often achieved better PDCAAS scores, which matter for muscle recovery and satiety.
Taste, Mixability, and Additive Profile
Creaminess and Minimal Aftertaste
Formulas with moderate fiber, natural thickeners, and low sugar excelled in mouthfeel and left less grittiness. Products using organic stevia or minimal monk fruit kept aftertastes neutral while avoiding blood sugar spikes from added sucrose or maltodextrin.
Certifications, Sourcing, and Transparency
Third-Party Verification and Ethical Supply Chains
Leading 2018 options carried trusted seals such as Certified Vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, or Informed Choice for sport integrity. Clear sourcing details for ingredients like organic pea protein or fair-trade cocoa signaled stronger brand accountability and lower contamination risk.
Practical Usage and Cost Efficiency
Daily Convenience and Value per Serving
Shoppers compared price per gram of protein, travel-friendliness, and compatibility with smoothies or baked goods. Concentrated formulas that required only one scoop simplified travel and reduced long-term cost even if the upfront price per tub appeared higher.
Smart Selection for 2018 Standards
- Opt for multi-plant blends that deliver at least 20 g protein and a favorable leucine threshold per serving.
- Verify third-party certifications aligned with your values, such as Certified Vegan, Non-GMO, or sport-specific credentials.
- Compare cost per gram of protein and serving versatility across smoothies, recipes, and on-the-go use.
- Trial small sizes or sample packs to confirm taste, mixability, and digestive comfort before committing to large tubs.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can a vegan protein powder fully replace a whey isolate for muscle gain?
Yes, if you choose a multi-source blend with at least 20–30 g protein per serving, complete amino coverage, and sufficient leucine; total daily calories and training volume remain the primary drivers of muscle growth.
How do I avoid digestive discomfort when switching to plant protein?
Start with a smaller scoop, drink plenty of fluids, and favor blends with moderate fiber and minimal added sweeteners; gradually increase portion size over one to two weeks while monitoring tolerance.
Is organic or non-GMO certification necessary for performance results?
Not required for gains, but these labels can reduce exposure to synthetic pesticides and GMOs; prioritize complete amino profiles, digestibility, and consistent quality if performance is your main goal.
Which certifications matter most for heavy training athletes?
Informed Choice or NSF Certified for Sport helps avoid banned substances for competitive athletes, while Certified Vegan and Non-GMO Project Verified appeal to those focused on ethical sourcing and ingredient transparency.