Best Clean Protein Powders For Post-Workouts and Muscle Gain in 2024

Find pure protein powders made from simple, high-quality ingredients. Our reviews uncover the best clean options free from unnecessary additives, so you get a wholesome boost for muscle growth.

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; we may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. You can learn more about our review process here.

Overview

Protein is an essential nutrient your body needs to repair cells, grow muscles, and work properly. Therefore, you must get adequate protein daily for your body to thrive and function well.

Meeting our daily protein needs can also impact our fitness, make us more robust, and give us lean muscles. Many fitness experts recommend including clean protein powders to ensure your protein needs meet your fitness and body goals.

So, what are clean protein powders? These powders contain high-quality proteins without additives, excess sugar, fillers, or GMOs. They are as natural as possible.

Finding the best clean protein powders can be tricky, especially if you don’t know where to start. We have compiled the best clean protein powders to decide what works for you quickly.

Best Clean Protein Powders

Best Clean Plant Based Protein Powder:
High Impact Plant Protein

Best Clean Whey Protein Powder:
High Impact Whey Protein

Best Clean Protein Powder Overall:
Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein

Best Protein Powder for Clean Bulk:
Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer

Best Clean Organic Protein Powder:
Live Conscious Organic Protein

Our Top Picks

#1 High Impact Plant Protein

Key features:

  • Special Ingredients: myHMB, Vitamin D3, Prohydrolase Enzymes
  • Unit Count: 12.0 Ounce
  • Protein Source: Blend of Pumpkin, Sunflower, Flax, Mung Bean, Yellow Pea, and Golden Chlorella
  • Item Weight: 12 Ounces
  • Flavor: Vanilla – New Formula

What we love:

  • Unique blend of plant proteins & HMB for muscle nourishment
  • Enhanced with vitamin D3 for optimal muscle health
  • Digestive enzymes for improved protein absorption
  • Formulated to support strength & lean muscle preservation
  • Ideal for morning consumption to promote fullness throughout the day

What to consider:

  • Primarily pea protein-based, which may not suit all dietary preferences
  • Contains added vitamins and enzymes for specific health goals

Why we choose High Impact Plant Protein:

This product stands out with its innovative combination of plant proteins and muscle-preserving ingredients, providing a holistic approach to muscle health.

Overview

POWERLIFE High-Impact Plant Protein revolutionizes the way we look at plant-based supplements. With a thoughtfully chosen mix of pumpkin, sunflower, and other vegetal proteins, it delivers an efficacious dose tailored for muscle maintenance and performance.
The inclusion of vitamin D3 and HMB enhances muscle synthesis, appealing to those focused on muscle strength and integrity. This protein powder isn’t just about what’s inside—it’s about providing a digestible, efficient source of nutrition designed to support your body’s needs throughout the day or post-workout.

#2 High Impact Whey Protein

Key features:

  • Price: $69.95
  • Form: Powder
  • Main Ingredients: Grass-fed Whey Protein Isolate, Chlorella Protothecoides, Digestive Enzyme Blend
  • Dosage: One scoop
  • Servings: 30 per container

What we love:

    • Muscle recovery: premium whey protein isolate
    • Enhanced digestion: exclusive enzyme blend
    • Strengthened immune function: glutamine, vitamins C and E
    • Delectable flavors: chocolate, strawberry lemonade
    • Clean nutrition: no artificial colors, sweeteners, or preservatives

What to consider:

  • Contains 70 calories per serving
  • Online-only availability may affect access

Why we choose High Impact Whey Protein:

High Impact Whey Protein was selected for its pinpointed blend that goes beyond muscle repair to facilitate comfortable digestion and robust immunity, reflecting a commitment to well-rounded health.

Overview

In a saturated supplement market, High Impact Whey Protein emerges as a testament to Power Life’s dedication to quality. Formulated by fitness expert Tony Horton, it harnesses Grass-fed Whey Protein Isolate, reputed for muscular repair, combined with nutrient-dense Chlorella Protothecoides and Digestive Enzymes for absorption. The sentinel of customer contentment shines through a compelling 90-day refund policy and gratis shipping for eligible products.

For discerning consumers, this product embodies a superior synergy of muscle support and health enrichment. High Impact Whey Protein has also been independently tested for purity by a third-party lab, further emphasizing the brand’s commitment to providing safe and effective products. Additionally, the inclusion of unsponsored customer reviews adds credibility to the efficacy of this product.

#3 Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein

Key features:

  • Price: $69.99
  • Form: Powder
  • Main Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate, Milk Protein Concentrate, Micellar Casein, Calcium Caseinate, Digestive Enzyme Blend
  • Dosage: One scoop
  • Servings: 30 per container

What we love:

  • Triple-action formula for maximum efficiency
  • Features a unique blend of four high-power proteins
  • Designed for quick absorption, sustained muscle fuel, and appetite suppression
  • Supports 3x muscle growth and recovery compared to standard whey proteins
  • Includes digestive enzymes for enhanced protein absorption without discomfort
  • Delicious chocolate flavor that satisfies cravings
  • Crafted for athletes aiming for optimal performance and physique goals

What to consider:

  • May carry a premium price tag due to high-quality ingredients
  • Specific dietary and allergy considerations for individuals sensitive to dairy products

Why we choose Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein:

CrazyNutrition Tri-Protein is the culmination of rigorous research, embodying the pinnacle of protein supplementation with its scientifically formulated triple-phase absorption process that significantly enhances muscle growth, recovery, and nutritional satisfaction for athletes determined to achieve their peak performance levels.

Overview

CrazyNutrition Tri-Protein breaks the mold of traditional protein supplements by providing a cutting-edge formula that caters to the specific needs of serious athletes. Its sophisticated blend of whey isolates, milk proteins, and caseins delivers amino acids in a staggered release, ensuring a comprehensive nurturing of muscle synthesis and sustained recovery post-training.

The proof of its distinction lies in the unsolicited testimonial acclaim and the product’s stringent adherence to stringent purity standards. Underpinned by a guarantee of satisfaction, CrazyNutrition Tri-Protein stands as a beacon of excellence for the discerning consumer who prioritizes both high performance and digestive harmony.

#4 Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer

Key features:

  • Price per Serving: $4.49
  • Total Calories: 487
  • Protein/Carbs/Fat Ratio: 31g/45g/8g
  • Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla

What we love:

  • Pleasurable flavor across the board
  • 60-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind
  • Low sugar formula aligns with health-conscious goals
  • Digezyme blend for optimal digestion

What to consider:

  • High serving size requirement of 6 scoops
  • Limited flavor options
  • Premium pricing with no external testing verification

Why we choose Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer:

CrazyNutrition Mass Gainer sets itself apart with a harmonious mix of protein and carbs, specifically formulated to maximize muscle gains while keeping your physique lean. The Digezyme addition is a testament to CrazyNutrition’s attention to digestive health, offering a comprehensive fitness nutrition solution.

Overview

CrazyNutrition Mass Gainer packs a punch in every four-scoop serving, boasting 488 calories with a balanced macronutrient profile aimed at powering muscle development. It provides a strategic caloric addition geared towards those seeking muscle growth without unnecessary weight gain.

Expert endorsements about its high-quality carbohydrate sources, such as oat flour, underscore the product’s commitment to quality and effectiveness. Despite the higher cost per serving, CrazyNutrition Mass Gainer reflects an investment in clean, efficient nutrition for serious fitness enthusiasts.

#5 Live Conscious Organic Protein

Key features:

  • Servings per Container: 20
  • Available Flavors: Cosmic Cacao, Vanilla Dream
  • Diet Type: Paleo, Vegan
  • Protein Content: 15g per serving
  • Total Calories: 80
  • Price per Serving: $42.99

What we love:

  • Includes a diversity of plant-based proteins for a complete amino acid profile
  • Eye-catching flavors: Cosmic Cacao and Vanilla Dream
  • Organic and vegan-friendly at under 80 calories per serving
  • Supports metabolism and muscle recovery post-workout
  • Contains all 9 essential amino acids for comprehensive health benefits

What to consider:

  • May require flavor enhancement for personal taste
  • Packs 15g of protein per serving, might be less than some alternatives

Why we choose Live Conscious Organic Protein:

Live Conscious Organic Vegan Protein stands out for its commitment to plant-based nutrition, offering a substantial protein punch that doesn’t compromise on taste or dietary principles. Its well-rounded formula supports not just muscle growth, but overall metabolic health, helping fitness devotees and health enthusiasts alike stay on top of their game.

Overview

Every scoop of Live Conscious Organic Vegan Protein ushers in a satisfying blend of Pea, Rice, Sacha Inchi, and Pumpkin Seed proteins, providing a rich, organic solution for anyone looking to supplement their protein intake responsibly.

With just 80 calories per serving, this protein powder acts as an excellent addition to a healthy diet, seamlessly integrating into a post-workout shake to foster muscle repair and growth. Moreover, it’s designed to satisfy your sweet tooth with naturally inspired flavors, all while bolstering your nutrition regimen with its comprehensive amino acid spectrum.

Why You Should Use Clean Protein Powders

Clean protein powders are not meant to be used only by fitness enthusiasts or athletes. You can also support your health and enjoy the nutritional value of adding clean protein powders to your lifestyle. Here is why you should use them:

  • Clean protein powders don’t contain added sugars, additives, or fillers. Therefore, they are ideal for individuals who are on specific diets.
  • These protein powders also have fewer calories and are ideal for anyone on a weight loss or fat loss journey.
  • They are versatile and can be incorporated into any meal, smoothie or drink. Therefore, you can use them in various ways according to your preferences.
  • They may have additional nutritional values and be easily digested.

How To Use Clean Protein Powders

The beauty of clean protein powders is that they can be used in various ways and different meals or drinks of choice. They also come in different tasty flavours to choose from. Here are the different ways you can use clean protein powders daily:

  • You can add the recommended portion or scoop it into your favourite smoothie of the day and make a protein shake. You can also blend it with frozen fruits.
  • Add the powder to your favourite morning drink, coffee juice or water.
  • If you’re an oatmeal fan, add it to your oatmeal in the morning to spice up your breakfast.
  • Mix it with your pancake batter in a flavorful pancake plate for that protein boost.
  • You can also add clean protein powders to your baking experience and use them in making cookies, cakes, bread or your favourite muffins.

As much as you can, use your clean protein powder in various ways. It’s always important to read the instructions on labels and instructions for use before trying the product out. Also, it’s essential not to overconsume the clean protein powders. Moderation is vital even when it comes to nutritional supplements.

“Making a beverage with protein powder can make it easier for those experiencing low appetite and those who have very high energy demands to keep up with eating enough,” says performance dietitian and consultant Kelly Jones, M.S., R.D., CSSD.

David Rosales, NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer, says, “However, just using the protein powder isn’t enough on its own, and it’s important to always pair it with adequate carbohydrates and fat while ensuring the total portion consumed is adequate for you as an individual for a meal or snack.”

Benefits Of Clean Protein Powders

Including clean protein powders in your lifestyle and diet has several benefits. Here are some of them:

  • Clean protein powders help your muscles repair and recover quickly. Therefore, they are ideal for recovery after workouts, especially weight training.
  • They are ideal for improving muscle mass, primarily when used to support strength and weight training.
  • Clean protein powders support weight and fat loss because they help curb excess appetite and cravings. They also support healthy fat loss.
  • They support cardiovascular health and lower the risk of stroke and heart attack.
  • They support your diet to meet your protein and nutritional goals.

Who Should Take Clean Protein Powders?

Clean protein powders are ideal for health-conscious individuals looking for different ways of sustainably boosting their nutrition. They suit fitness enthusiasts who want to build and improve their muscles and lose fat. Protein contains amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle tissues. Therefore, when the powders are combined with weight or strength training, they can effectively aid muscle gain.

Another group that can benefit from clean protein powders is individuals on plant-based, vegan, diabetic or keto diet plans. That’s because clean protein powders have fewer calories and don’t have added sugars, fillers or additives. Therefore, one can improve their protein intake without compromising their diet, thus improving their overall health.

However, if you are pregnant or have health concerns, we recommend speaking to a professional healthcare provider before using clean protein powders.

How Did We Pick the Best Clean Protein Powders?

When scouting for the best clean protein powders, we used the following criteria to guide us to the best in the market:

Ingredients

We checked the ingredients used in the best clean protein powders, ensuring they are natural and have no additives or fillers. We also checked the ingredient sources for legitimacy and provided they were backed by science and clinically proven safe and effective.

Nutritional Value

We also did a thorough job checking the nutritional value of each protein powder to ensure that the clean protein powders have sufficient protein content, fewer calories, and meet dietary needs for fitness, weight loss, and recovery.

Certifications and Testing

Certifications and testing were other essential areas that we were keen on. We were mainly inclined towards protein powders that were certified or manufactured in certified facilities. This was to ensure that you’re getting quality, safe products.

Price

We also checked the price of the clean protein powders before settling on the ones we did because we always believe that you should negotiate for value for your money. A great product has quality ingredients and a reasonable price point. Therefore, we settled on protein powders that have great nutritional value and are moderately priced.

Customer Reviews

A product or brand can use all its money on branding and marketing, but customer feedback is the last cherry on top of the cake that tells the whole story. We took our time reviewing customer ratings and feedback and picked the products with honest and unfiltered reviews. We settled on products that customers swear by and didn’t negatively impact them.

Ingredients

Below are some common ingredients we found in the best clean protein powders:

Pea protein

It’s extracted from peas and is known to have a high protein value. Experts believe pea protein has a high dosage of easily digestible amino acids.

“The amino acids are extracted and create a powder which anyone can use as a supplement to a well-balanced diet,” says registered dietitian Anthony DiMarino, RD. That’s why it’s a favorite ingredient in clean protein powders.

Sunflower protein

This protein is derived from sunflower seeds and has a high protein content. It’s also considered a readily available source of proteins because sunflower seeds are easily and readily available throughout different seasons of the year.

Pumpkin protein

This type of protein is derived from pumpkins, especially seeds with high vitamin, mineral, antioxidant, and protein properties.

Quinoa

This plant-based protein source is packed with sufficient amino acids for supporting muscle development, immune boost, and other essential body functions. Quinoa is known to be a potent source of an essential amino acid. Lysine plays a vital role in growth and development.

final-sec verdictConclusion

Proteins are essential to a healthy diet, and their importance isn’t underestimated. They ensure our bodies repair, rebuild, and recover properly. They also help us build healthy muscles and have healthy hormones. Hence, we must ensure we have the cleanest, adequate supply for our bodies to thrive.

We implore you to look at our selection of the best clean protein powders, which we know have high protein content and zero added sugar additives or fillers. Our selection features the best in the market that will help transform your fitness and health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Are Protein Powders Effective for Weight Loss?
A. Protein powders can only be effective for weight loss if accompanied by exercise routines and habits that support weight loss. However, protein powders and shakes are low in calories and keep you full longer; thus, they may help keep off some unwanted weight.

Q. How Many Times Should I Take a Protein Powder in a Day?
A. You’re required to take your protein powder as per the recommendations suggested by the manufacturer. Therefore, reading the instructions is essential to know when and how often you need to take your protein powder daily.

Q. Are Clean Protein Powders Worth It?
A. Clean protein powders tend to have a high pure protein content essential for growth, repair, and recovery. They are perfect for fitness enthusiasts who need proteins for muscle growth and extra energy with fewer calories.

Q. Are Clean Protein Powders Safe?
A. Most clean protein powders are not regulated and are sold as supplements. However, you can buy the ones with certifications and proven ingredient lists to ensure you consume safe products.

Wan Na Chun, MPH, CPT, RDN

Wan Na Chun, MPH, CPT, RDN is a New York City-based public health dietitian nutritionist, certified personal trainer, & media consultant expert.
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