Protein powders aren’t just for bodybuilders and athletes — they’ve become a pantry essential for millions of Americans. Entire stores are dedicated to dietary supplements, and there’s no shortage of options online, so finding the best protein powder isn’t always easy. From dessert-inspired flavors (hello, double chocolate brownie) and plant-based blends to whey isolates high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), there are products to suit most diets, health goals and taste buds.

Why protein powders? For busy parents, athletes, commuters and students, getting enough protein can be an uphill battle, explains Emily Hulse of Emily Grace Nutrition, a registered dietitian and nutritionist. And it’s not just the young and active who benefit. With their increased protein needs, older adults might find protein powders an easy way to combat muscle loss and promote strong bones. “Protein powder can help counteract age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) and support bone health,” explains Marjorie Nolan Cohn, a registered dietitian and nutritionist and clinical director of Berry Street, an online platform that connects patients with dietitians. Plus, protein powders are shelf-stable and adaptable, fitting into almost any routine.

However, decoding the benefits of protein powders and selecting the right one can be daunting. To make it easier, we sought advice from three registered dietitians. As a registered dietitian myself, I also evaluated over 20 brands and tested 18 products firsthand. Continue reading to find the best protein powders that deserve a place in your shaker bottle.

A note on supplements

The products on this list are dietary supplements. Supplements are regulated far less stringently by the Food and Drug Administration than medications, with little evaluation of safety or effectiveness before they go to market. Supplements may also interact with medications and aren’t appropriate for all populations or health conditions. While our health writers select and test evidence-based products, it’s important to talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.

Best protein powder overall for 2025

Amazon

Protein per serving: 25 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (30 g) | Nutrition facts (unflavored): 120 calories, 3 g carbs, 2 g fat | Sweeteners: None (unflavored), organic coconut sugar (flavored) | Cost per serving: $1.25

Naked Whey earns our best overall pick thanks to its impressively short ingredient list, third-party certification and reasonable price. The powder mixes easily and is available in five flavors, plus an unflavored variety. Each two-scoop-size serving provides an impressive 25 grams of protein to support muscle synthesis and is relatively low in calories and saturated fat.

I’ve tried several Naked Whey flavors over the years (RIP, Naked Matcha) and am continually impressed by the smooth consistency and solid flavor profiles. Because I don’t like the taste (or aftertaste) of stevia and sugar alcohols, Naked Whey earned extra points for being sweetened with organic coconut sugar. That said, because it’s sweetened with real sugar, flavored varieties contain 3-5 grams of added sugar per serving, which may be a deal-breaker if you’re following a low-carb diet or trying to manage your blood sugar levels.

Naked Whey is made from pasture-fed cow’s milk and is third-party certified by Informed Choice. It’s also gluten-free and contains zero artificial additives. Its unflavored option is made from just one ingredient: whey protein concentrate. Keep in mind that whey concentrate contains more lactose than isolate and may cause unwanted GI side effects in some people. That said, many reviewers report no such problems. One five-star Amazon reviewer enthuses, “All I can say is … wow! This has changed my day and been a value add to my life. It tastes great, I feel so satiated and am no longer snacking at all, no intolerance issues and no gas. I have consistent energy levels through the day.” 

Pros

• Third-party certified
• Short ingredient list with no artificial additives
• Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar
• Impressive taste and little aftertaste
• Multiple flavors, including unflavored
• Easy to mix
• Moderate per-serving price

Cons

• Flavored varieties include added sugar
• Whey concentrate may be harder to digest for some
• Not vegan-friendly

$95 at Amazon

Other top protein powders we recommend for 2025

Amazon

Protein per serving: 25 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (38 g) | Nutrition facts (chocolate): 160 calories, 8 g carbs, 4 g fat | Sweeteners: None (unsweetened), organic coconut sugar (flavored varieties) | Cost per serving: 76 cents

Building muscle on a vegan diet? It’s not as tricky as you think — especially with our favorite plant-based protein powder. Offering a hefty 25-27 grams of protein per serving and containing all nine essential amino acids, Naked Pea is a powerhouse for those looking to gain or maintain muscle while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle. Add to that a clean ingredient list, natural coconut sugar sweeteners, a low per-serving price and no artificial additives, and you’ve got a powder that checks all the right boxes.

One of the most surprising aspects of Naked Pea is its flavor. Unlike many vegan protein powders that taste overly sweet or have a gritty texture, Naked Pea is refreshingly clean and subtly sweet. Both the chocolate and vanilla flavors are enjoyable even when mixed only with water — no artificial aftertaste here. Plus, its mild flavor makes it versatile and easy to blend into smoothies, shakes or baked goods.

Reviewers agree. One Amazon user said, “I was initially concerned about how much peaness I would taste when I mixed it into things, but its natural flavor is really very mild. The first time I tried it, I thought the peaness would overwhelm me, but it was very manageable. So far, the unflavored pea protein seems a great fit for more savory dishes, but I imagine it will mix into smoothies and sweeter things fine.”

Naked Pea’s pea protein is generally easier to digest and less likely to cause GI side effects than some other plant-based proteins. That said, the powder does have a slightly earthy flavor, which is less noticeable when it’s paired with other ingredients, such as oat milk or fruit.

Pros

• Third-party certified
• Short ingredient list with no artificial additives
• Multiple flavors, including unflavored
• Provides all nine essential amino acids
• Easy to mix
• Not overly sweet
• No stevia or other sugar substitutes
• Low per-serving price

Cons

• Slight earthy flavor
• Some may find the flavors too mild

$58 at Amazon

Just Ingredients

Protein per serving: 24 g | Serving size: 1 scoop (33 g) | Nutrition facts (chocolate): 140 calories, 3 g carbs, 4g fat | Sweeteners: Stevia and monk fruit extract | Cost per serving: $2

Flavor can make or break a protein powder — no one wants to dread their daily shake! A great-tasting protein powder encourages consistency, making it easier to meet your nutritional goals. That’s where Just Ingredients excels.

What sets this brand apart is its ability to deliver consistently tasty flavors across its impressive lineup of options, all of which I enjoyed. From rich Vanilla Bean to indulgent Mint Chocolate, each tastes natural and balanced. This is no small feat, as protein powders often rely on artificial sweeteners and flavorings that leave a bitter or overly sweet aftertaste. Just Ingredients avoids that by using natural ingredients like cacao, strawberries and peppermint oil.

Another key advantage is how the powder is sweetened. It uses stevia and monk fruit, which provide a subtle sweetness without the cloying aftertaste often associated with stevia. Even for someone who typically avoids stevia-based products, the flavor profile here feels smooth and satisfying.

Beyond taste, the formulation is thoughtful and clean. With a unique blend of grass-fed whey isolate, grass-fed collagen, chia seed and pumpkin seed proteins, it’s ideal for people looking for a high-quality product free from artificial flavors, colors and additives. It’s versatile too — you can blend it into a smoothie, mix it with oats or simply shake it up with water. Another bonus is no unpleasant side effects. An Amazon reviewer notes, “It’s also easy on the stomach, so no bloating or discomfort after drinking it.” 

That said, at about $2 per serving, it’s pricier than some alternatives. It also contains 4.5 grams of saturated fat per serving, about 25% of your recommended daily intake. These factors may be worth weighing, depending on your priorities.

Pros

• Third-party tested for purity, potency
• No added sugars
• Short ingredient list with no artificial additives
• 21 flavors, including unflavored
• Consistently impressive taste; little aftertaste
• Smooth consistency; easy to mix
• Whey isolate is easy to digest

Cons

• Higher per-serving price
• High in saturated fat
• Not vegan-friendly

$60 at Just Ingredients

Amazon

Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 1 scoop (26.2 g) | Nutrition facts (chocolate): 90 calories, 2 g carbs, fat not listed | Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract and stevia | Cost per serving: $2.71

Building muscle requires high-quality protein and the right amino acid profile to fuel recovery and growth. Our top choice for muscle gain checks all of the boxes Cohn recommends for big gains.

Specifically, it contains 20 grams of protein per serving from a high-quality protein source — grass-fed whey isolate. It’s also high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs); with more than 2 grams of leucine per serving, it helps muscles get the fuel they need for growth and recovery. Plus, it’s NSF Certified for Sport, which ensures it’s free from banned substances and meets high purity standards, making it suitable for competitive athletes.

One happy Amazon reviewer called it “one of the best whey protein supplements I’ve used.” They added that it’s great-tasting and, “I’ve noticed less soreness following a workout and the gains are more than I am accustomed to.”

I was impressed by how easily this powder mixed with water in my blender bottle. After just a few vigorous shakes, the mixture was completely smooth with zero gritty or chalky texture. Flavorwise, chocolate is the way to go. It isn’t the richest or creamiest chocolate protein powder on our list. However, I appreciated it for its solid flavor and zero artificial taste or aftertaste. The vanilla was a bit of a mixed bag for me. While it wasn’t artificial-tasting, the stevia was more noticeable. Also worth considering: the relatively high price per serving.

If you follow a plant-based diet, the company’s vegan powder is worth considering. Similar to its whey counterpart, Momentous 100% Plant Protein has 20 grams of protein per serving, contains all nine essential amino acids and is high in BCAAs to support muscle synthesis. I particularly enjoyed the chocolate, which was smooth and refreshing after an afternoon workout session.

Pros

• Certified pure for athletes
• High in BCAAs, including leucine
• Whey isolate is easy to digest
• Short ingredient list with no artificial additives
• Multiple flavors, including unflavored

Cons

• Higher per-serving price
• Taste gets mixed reviews

$55 at Amazon

Amazon

Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (40 g) | Nutrition facts: 150 calories, 13 g carbs, 2 g fat | Sweeteners: Organic coconut sugar | Cost per serving: $1.61

If you’ve tried plant-based protein powders before, you’ve probably dealt with gritty texture or weirdly sweet or dirtlike flavors. That’s why this moderately priced Orgain option takes the top spot as the best-tasting plant-based powder — it’s a refreshing change! Made with just a few simple ingredients and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, it tastes clean and doesn’t leave that artificial aftertaste so many other powders do.

The flavor? So good. Chocolate and vanilla both have a rich, slightly nutty taste that feels like a treat instead of something you’re forcing yourself to drink. The chocolate is creamy and satisfying, perfect for when you’re craving something sweet, and the vanilla is light and smooth. I loved mixing it into a smoothie with frozen banana, spinach and oat milk for a healthy twist on a milkshake. However, because it has a thick, full-bodied flavor and consistency, the powder was perfectly enjoyable when combined with just plain old water or plant-based milk too.

“Great taste and NO STEVIA,” said one Amazon reviewer. “The cool thing here is that you get all the benefits of a vegan protein powder but no stevia and a relatively low sugar content. … It’s really tasty, holds me until lunch (roughly four hours), and keeps my energy level on an even keel.”

Each serving gives you 20 grams of protein from a blend of pea, rice, peanut, almond, pumpkin seed and chia seed proteins. This powder is also certified organic and plant-based. One downside to note is that while Orgain conducts in-house testing for purity, the brand doesn’t utilize third-party testing, something that might be important to some buyers.

Pros

• Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar
• Short ingredient list with no artificial additives
• Rich, nutty flavor
• Easy to mix
• Certified organic and plant-based
• Provides all nine essential amino acids
• Moderate per-serving price

Cons

• Not third-party tested for purity or potency
• No unflavored option
• Not suitable for those with peanut or tree nut allergies

$21 at Amazon

Amazon

Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 1 scoop (22.3 g) | Nutrition facts: 85 calories, 1 g carbs, fat not listed | Sweeteners: None | Cost per serving: $2.98

Unflavored protein powders allow you to add protein to your diet without altering the taste of your favorite foods or drinks. They’re ideal for blending into smoothies, shakes or recipes like overnight oats without clashing with other flavors. Plus, unflavored options often have fewer additives, making them a cleaner choice for those who prefer simplicity in their supplements.

This Klean Athlete powder takes the top spot in the unflavored category for its high-quality whey isolate protein and versatility. Each serving delivers 20 grams of protein, including all nine essential amino acids and a healthy dose of BCAAs to support muscle recovery and growth. It’s NSF Certified for Sport, so it’s free from banned substances, a huge bonus for competitive athletes. Of course, this comes at a cost — the highest per-serving price on our list.

During testing, the powder mixed effortlessly in a blender bottle, though it did have a slightly chalky texture. This made it a better fit for recipes and blended drinks rather than stirring into plain beverages. As one reviewer said, “Great for smoothies,” adding, “I was looking for a protein powder for my smoothies, this one works well. Doesn’t have the horrible aftertaste a lot of them do. Mixes in nice without any clumps.”

While I didn’t try it in coffee, several reviewers mention that the powder isn’t the best for stirring into beverages — in other words, it’s best shaken, not stirred!

Pros

• Certified pure for athletes
• No artificial flavors or sweeteners
• Mixes well using an electric blender or blender bottle
• Undetectable when combined with other ingredients

Cons

• Slightly gritty texture
• Higher per-serving price
• Not vegan-friendly

$60 at Amazon

Amazon

Protein per serving: 23 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (31 g) | Nutrition facts: 130 calories, 3 g carbs, 3 g fat | Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract | Cost per serving: $2.50

If you’re on the hunt for an organic protein powder that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste, Ora is a top choice. This USDA-certified organic powder is packed with all-natural, plant-based ingredients, offering a complete amino acid profile. Plus, it’s certified vegan.

One reason this powder earned its spot as the best organic option is Ora’s recent reformulation. Listening to customer feedback, the brand revamped the recipe to remove stevia and improve its consistency. The result is a protein powder that’s smooth and versatile. During testing, the vanilla flavor stood out for its silky texture and mild, natural sweetness, while the Vanilla Chai offered a spiced twist, though it did have a slightly grainy texture that required extra shaking.

Reviewers love this powder too. In fact, one five-star reviewer called it the “best protein powder on the market.” They added, “Very clean protein powder with no weird additives. I buy the unflavored, which I put not only in smoothies but in my morning oatmeal with blueberries.”

Another notable feature is 5 grams of iron per serving, which provides 27% of the daily value for women under 50. This can be a major perk if you want to boost your iron intake, especially since plant-based eaters are more prone to iron deficiencies. However, if you’re already meeting your iron needs or have low iron requirements, this might be an unnecessary addition. The relatively high price is also worth noting.

Pros

• Third-party tested for purity, potency
• Certified vegan and organic
• Multiple flavors, including unflavored
• No added sugar or artificial additives
• Naturally sweetened with monk fruit
• Provides all nine essential amino acids
• Smooth consistency; easy to mix
• Impressive taste and little aftertaste

Cons

• Superfood and Greens Blend may not be appropriate for people taking certain medications
• May be too high in iron for some, especially women over 50 and men
• Higher per-serving price

$50 at Amazon

Amazon

Protein per serving: 20 g | Serving size: 2 scoops (29 g) | Nutrition facts: 110 calories, 4 g carbs, 1.5 g fat | Sweeteners: Fermented cane sugar (Reb-M) | Cost per serving: $2

Our best-with-collagen pick is formulated to support healthier hair, skin and nails thanks to its unique combination of bovine collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, biotin and zinc. While research is ongoing, collagen supplements have been shown to help promote healthier skin and support hair and nail growth. Similarly, hyaluronic acid supplements have been linked with benefits for aging skin, including a reduction of wrinkles and fine lines.

While I didn’t test the powder long enough to notice benefits for my hair, skin or nails, I can vouch for the taste and consistency. Infused with real vanilla bean, the vanilla flavor delivered a rich, authentic taste without the artificial aftertaste common in many vanilla protein powders. I also loved how effortlessly it blended in my shaker bottle, creating a smooth, enjoyable consistency even when mixed with water.

Unlike many other powders from Naked Nutrition, Ella is free of added sugars. Instead, it’s sweetened with fermented cane sugar (Reb-M), a zero-calorie sweetener made through a patented fermentation process.

The biggest downside is the lack of an unflavored option, especially if you prefer to add collagen to your morning coffee. Additionally, because it includes 50% or more of the daily value for vitamin C, biotin and zinc, the powder shouldn’t be combined with a multivitamin.

Pros

• Third-party tested for purity, potency
• No artificial sweeteners, colors or flavors
• Formulated to support hair, skin and nail health
• Mixes easily
• Pleasant flavor with no aftertaste

Cons

• No unflavored option
• Relatively expensive
• Cannot be combined with multivitamins
• Higher per-serving price

$40 at Amazon

Types of protein powders

Choosing the right protein powder is no small task. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types to help you decide which one might be the best fit for you:

• Whey protein: Whey is a protein in cow’s milk rich in amino acids, especially BCAAs like leucine. Whey protein is best known for its effectiveness in increasing muscle mass and strength. It’s also been shown to help improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

• Whey protein isolate: This highly refined form of whey protein boasts a higher protein concentration while containing significantly less lactose and fat than whey concentrate. Its lower lactose content makes it a gentler option for those with lactose sensitivity. However, it is typically more expensive and may not retain some of the beneficial nutrients present in less processed whey concentrate.

• Whey protein concentrate: This less processed form of whey protein is a more budget-friendly option than whey isolate. While it retains more of the beneficial nutrients found in whey, it has a lower protein content and higher levels of lactose and fat, which might not suit everyone, particularly those with lactose sensitivity.

• Casein: This is the dominant protein in cow’s milk, prized for its slow digestion and absorption. This makes it an excellent choice for muscle recovery during rest periods, such as overnight. Many take casein supplements before bed to ensure a steady supply of amino acids to aid muscle repair while sleeping.

• Collagen: Collagen is a protein found in connective tissue, bones, cartilage, tendons and skin. It’s often used topically or orally as a supplement to improve hair, skin and nail health.

• Pea protein: Derived from yellow split peas, pea protein is a rare plant-based protein source that provides all nine essential amino acids. It’s known for being gentle on the digestive system and is less likely to cause gastrointestinal issues than other options. However, pea protein powders can be relatively expensive and often have a mildly earthy flavor, which may not appeal to everyone.

• Rice protein: These powders are typically more budget-friendly than other vegan protein options. However, rice protein isn’t a complete protein, as it lacks one of the essential amino acids. Additionally, rice-based powders may carry a higher risk of heavy metal contamination, so choosing a trusted brand is crucial.

• Plant-based blends: These vegan protein powders are formulated with two or more plant-based protein sources and often contain all nine essential amino acids.

Factors to consider when choosing a protein powder

Finding the best protein powder involves weighing several factors to ensure it meets your nutritional needs and fits your lifestyle. Here are the key things to keep in mind when you’re shopping:

• Protein source: Start by deciding which protein best suits your needs, such as whey, casein or plant-based options. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, so consider your dietary restrictions and preferences.

• Protein content per serving: The amount per serving should match your daily protein needs. Around 20 grams per serving is a solid baseline for most healthy adults. However, active individuals, athletes and adults over 65 may benefit from powders that offer 25-30 grams of protein per serving.

• Calories: Most protein powders contain 100-200 calories per serving. To build muscle or gain weight, consider a mass gainer with extra calories and carbohydrates. Otherwise, select a powder that matches your daily calorie requirements.

• Vitamins and minerals: Some protein powders are fortified with vitamins and minerals. For example, some plant-based powders contain additional iron, a nutrient sometimes lacking in a vegan diet. Consider your diet and supplement routine to determine whether you need a powder with additional micronutrients.

• Carbs and fat: Choose products with carb and fat levels that suit your dietary preferences and nutritional needs. For instance, if you’re on a low-carb diet, opt for a powder with 7 grams of carbs or less per serving.

• Intended use: Consider your primary goal. Are you looking to build muscle, lose weight or fill nutritional gaps? Choose a product formulated to support that specific purpose.

• Taste and mixability: A powder’s taste and how well it mixes are crucial for long-term use. Many companies offer sample-size packets, letting you test flavors and consistency before committing to a full-size product.

• Additives, artificial ingredients: When possible, opt for powders with minimal artificial additives, such as flavors, colors, sweeteners, emulsifiers and fillers. Shorter ingredient lists often mean cleaner, higher-quality products.

• Dietary restrictions: If you have food allergies or follow a specific diet, ensure your chosen product is compatible. Certifications like certified vegan or gluten-free can help you quickly identify suitable options.

• Third-party testing: Dietary supplements are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. To ensure a product contains the types and amounts of ingredients listed on the label, look for protein powders that have been third-party tested by a reputable organization, such as NSF or Informed Choice.

• Value: While you don’t need to splurge on the most expensive option, it’s essential not to sacrifice quality either. Several protein powder brands offer moderately priced products with good-quality ingredients. Most of our top picks fell somewhere between $1 and $3 per serving.

How we chose the best protein powders

With over 13 years of experience as a registered dietitian (and countless protein shakes under my belt), I’ve researched and tested a wide range of protein powders. To refine this list, I collaborated with three other registered dietitians to better understand what makes a protein powder stand out based on different dietary needs and preferences.

Combining our expertise, we reviewed products from more than 20 brands, narrowing them down to 18 top contenders. Our selection process focused on ingredient quality, nutritional profiles, third-party certifications, insights from online reviews and personal recommendations from friends and family.

For the first round of testing, I mixed a single serving of each powder with 12 ounces of water (or the amount recommended on the label) in a blender bottle, shaking for at least 30 seconds. I evaluated each product based on how well it mixed, texture, flavor and aftertaste.

To gain a more comprehensive sense of these powders’ versatility, I retested each product over the following weeks, incorporating them into blender bottle shakes with oat milk, smoothies and overnight oats. This method allowed me to assess how each powder performed in different scenarios, ultimately helping me determine which ones deserve a spot on your shelf.

Other protein powders we tested

• BEAM Vegan Protein: Be Amazing (BEAM) Vegan Protein comes in seven dessert-inspired flavors, is third-party tested and contains a relatively short list of ingredients. During testing, its Birthday Cake recipe was a favorite for its smooth texture and on-point vanilla cake flavor. The biggest downside is the use of sucralose, which some experts warn could have long-term adverse health effects.

• Factor Form Whey Protein Powder: Factor Form, widely recognized for its prepared meal delivery service, offers a whey protein powder that’s smooth, creamy and flavorful — particularly the chocolate. However, it has a higher price tag and is only available in single-serve packets.

• Groove Whey Protein Isolate: Groove is a newcomer to the protein powder scene. The company’s whey protein isolate offers 25 grams of protein and only 2 grams of carbs, making it a good option for a low-carb diet. Although it contains stevia, it isn’t overly noticeable, especially in the Mexican Chocolate flavor. However, it is expensive and only available on the company’s website.

• Just Ingredients Vegan Protein: Unlike Just Ingredients’ whey-based powder, the company’s vegan option fell flat. I tried the Roasted Chocolate and was surprised by its bitterness and overpowering cinnamon flavor. The texture was also very grainy.

• Ka’Chava All-in-One Nutrition Shake: Essentially a protein powder and multivitamin in one, Ka’Chava is a dietary supplement with gorgeous packaging. I liked the ingredients and quality, but the texture was too grainy and the taste was too earthy. These factors and the high price tag kept Ka’Chava from making our top list.

• Momentous 100% Plant Protein: This option is NSF Certified for Sport and formulated to support muscle growth and recovery. While the powder has mixed reviews online, I enjoyed the chocolate flavor. Because it has a thinner consistency and milder flavor, I found it refreshing after a hard workout. The Vanilla Chai, on the other hand, wasn’t as enjoyable. While there were notes of cinnamon, it didn’t deliver on the promise of chai spice.

• Neue Theory Plant-Based Probiotic Protein Powder: This powder is specially formulated to be easy to digest. It includes probiotics, digestive enzymes and all nine essential amino acids, making it a good source of complete plant-based protein. The vanilla flavor was one of my favorites, thanks to its creamy texture and rich vanilla bean taste. The downside is the high price — roughly $3.25 per serving.

• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey: This widely available whey powder has long been a favorite in the sports supplements industry. With 24 grams of protein per serving and an impressive variety of flavors, it’s a solid choice. The Extreme Milk Chocolate flavor delivers richness and sweetness, but the artificial taste and aftertaste were less appealing. Additionally, this powder contains more additives than the other products we tested.

• OWYN Plant-Based Protein Powder: This vegan powder is certified allergen-friendly, meaning it’s free from eight of the major food allergens. While it has a loyal following, I noticed a strong chemical taste and aftertaste that was hard to ignore. The texture was also very grainy, even when I combined this powder with oat milk.

• Vega Premium Sport Protein: This powder is a solid option for athletes dedicated to a vegan lifestyle. It is NSF Certified for Sport and delivers an impressive 30 grams of complete protein per serving. It also includes 5 grams of BCAAs and tart cherry extract to aid muscle recovery. It’s available in five stevia-sweetened flavors — a potential downside for those sensitive to stevia’s distinct taste, which is prominent in this formulation.

Protein powder FAQs

How much protein powder should I take per day?

Whole foods alone can meet the daily protein needs of most healthy adults. However, if you supplement your diet with protein powder, sticking to 1 to 2 servings daily is generally safe and sufficient.

When is the best time to drink protein shakes?

“The best time to drink a protein shake depends on your goals,” says Jessica Kelly, a registered dietitian with Nutrition That Heals. She explains that for building muscle, consuming a protein shake within 30 minutes after a workout can support muscle recovery and growth.

On the other hand, if your focus is weight management or hunger control, protein shakes can serve as an excellent meal replacement or a satisfying snack. They help you curb your appetite and maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Can protein powder help with weight loss?

“Yes, protein powder can support weight loss by promoting satiety, preserving lean muscle mass and stabilizing blood sugar levels,” explains Kelly.

However, it’s important to remember that protein powder isn’t a magic solution for shedding pounds. Since it adds calories to your diet, consuming too much could lead to weight gain if it pushes you beyond your daily calorie requirements.

Is it safe to use protein powder every day?

Protein powders are typically safe for daily use. However, consuming too much protein from powders or other sources can strain your kidneys. To avoid potential issues, healthy adults should limit their daily protein intake to no more than 2 grams per kilogram of body weight.

What is the difference between whey isolate and concentrate?

“Whey isolate is more processed, resulting in a higher protein content (90% or more) and lower fat and lactose levels,” Kelly says. She explains that this makes whey isolate an excellent choice for individuals looking for a cleaner protein source or those with lactose sensitivity.

In contrast, whey concentrate contains slightly less protein (70%-80%) and retains more natural fats and carbohydrates, offering a creamier texture and additional nutrients.

There’s also a price difference: Whey isolate protein powders are typically more expensive than whey concentrate powders.

Meet our experts

• Emily Hulse, MS, RD, Emily Grace Nutrition

• Jessica Kelly, RDN, LDN, Nutrition That Heals

• Marjorie Nolan Cohn, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-S, clinical director of Berry Street

Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.

I quit drinking coffee more than 10 years ago. I was only in high school, but I was consuming copious amounts of the stuff. One afternoon, after a serious bout of jitters, I decided to go cold turkey and drop coffee completely. And I’ve never looked back. I made it through four years of college without drinking a drop of it and I don’t crave it, either .

But like many people, I still seek an extra kick of caffeine in the morning. Now, my go-to beverage is matcha. From making my own lattes to adding it to smoothies or oatmeal, I appreciate the energy boost and earthy flavor of this green tea. And my favorite place to enjoy a matcha latte is at a local café.

At coffee shops across Oʻahu, matcha is on the menu. And some cafés serve only matcha beverages and products. Whether you’re obsessed with this green tea or just looking for an alternative to coffee, here are five spots on Oʻahu serving top-notch matcha beverages.

1. Daily Whisk Matcha

Located in the hip neighborhood of Kaimukī, the Daily Whisk Matcha fits right in. The matcha stand is nestled on the patio of clothing boutique Ten Tomorrow, thanks to the business’s owner and designer, Summer Shiigi, who decided to add a café to the shopping experience. The stand offers classic matcha lattes, along with matcha lemonade and matcha lilikoʻi soda. You can also add flavors like Lāʻie vanilla, Maui lavender and Hawaiʻi Island Honey to your matcha beverages.

1114 11th Ave., Honolulu, dailywhiskmatcha.com

READ MORE: These are 5 of the Coolest Cafés in Kaimukī

2. Nana’s Green Tea

This tea shop has more than 80 locations in Japan. But on Oʻahu, Nana’s Green Tea can be found in only one spot: Stix Asia. The underground food hall is in Waikīkī and Nana’s Green Tea is worth the search—and worth returning to. You can grab your matcha latte in the morning and then come back for dessert. From creamy matcha soft serve to decadent matcha parfaits, Nana’s Green Tea is a must-visit whether you’re craving a matcha latte or a sweet treat.

2250 Kalākaua Ave., Suite 5, Lower Level 100, Honolulu, global.nanasgreentea.com

READ MORE: Stix Asia Food Fall Brings 17 New Asian Restaurants to Waikīkī

3. Pōʻai by Pono Potions

The alohamora from Pōʻai is a coconut lover’s dream with a coconut milk base, coconut syrup and topped with coconut foam.
Photo: Grace Maeda

It’s no surprise that this Chinatown café packs flavor into its beverages, including its matcha concoctions. Pōʻai is the flagship location of Pono Potions, a natural syrup company. Here, the matcha drinks are one of a kind thanks to those syrups. If you’re craving something fruity, the matcha manakō (mango) features li hing mui syrup, mango purée and a dusting of li hing powder. The alohamora is a coconut lover’s dream. With coconut milk as the base, the matcha is flavored with coconut syrup and topped with a lilikoʻi foam.

1119 Smith St., Honolulu, ponopotions.com

READ MORE: Taste the Islands’ Fresh Flavors with Pono Potions

4. Neko Koneko

Neko Koneko specializes in bottled lattes.
Photo: Grace Maeda

This cute hole in the wall in Liliha prepares bottled lattes. Every bottle—from matcha to cold brew—comes with a cup of ice, so you’re paying for a full 16 ounces of your drink of choice. The lattes are made with oat milk, resulting in a pleasant creamy texture.

1658 Liliha St., Honolulu, nekokonekocafe.com/home

5. Mele Mele Bakery

Mele Mele Bakery is tucked in a silo in Waialua. The business boasts an extensive list of matcha beverages.
Photo: Grace Maeda

Tucked in a silo at the old Waialua Sugar Mill, Mele Mele Bakery is truly a hidden gem on the North Shore. Along with fresh baked goods, the café boasts an extensive list of matcha beverages that are made to order. From a rose matcha latte to matcha yuzu lemonade, the drinks are made with organic Uji matcha sourced from Yamasan in Kyoto, Japan. The café is a cozy spot to sip on your matcha and relax.

67-106 Kealohanui St., Waialua, melemelebakery.com