What to look for in an Organic Protein Powders

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Protein powders are a popular supplement among health-conscious people, including athletes, bodybuilders, and such. They have many health benefits, nurturing the body with the essential amino acids that work as the building blocks in the body. There is a wide variety of organic protein powders available in the market. For this reason, it can be difficult to find one that best suits your requirements. Read on to find out more about the six commonly used Protein powders and their features.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, take medicines or are buying for a child.
Supplement safety
  • Supplements aren’t FDA-approved before sale; look for USP or NSF seals.[1]
  • Ask your doctor before use if you take medicines, are pregnant or have a health condition.[2]

Table of Contents

Types of Protein Powders

Here are the types of protein powders:

1. Casein Protein
2. Whey Protein
3. Pea Protein
4. Egg Protein
5. Hemp Protein
6. Brown Rice Protein

  • Casein Protein – Casein is a milk-based protein. It belongs to a family of phosphoproteins commonly found in mammalian milk. Of the total protein in Cow milk, 80% is casein, whereas human milk contains 20-60%. It is usually made by either of the following methods, including forming casein curdles after fermentation of milk sugar naturally by adding diluted hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid. When Casein protein interacts with stomach acids, it transforms into a gel-like substance. Due to this, it dissolves and breaks down slowly. It is taken as a supplement, commonly before bed, to help with recovery after exercise.
  • Whey Protein – Whey protein is derived from milk, like casein. In the cheesemaking process, when the milk is curdled, the liquid left behind is called whey. Whey liquid is high in protein and includes lactose. Since many people are lactose intolerant, whey protein can be problematic for such people. However, whey protein isolate can be suitable for such people as it contains the minimum amount of lactose possible after processing. Therefore, the best organic whey protein is commonly used as a milk substitute for lactose-intolerant people. Lastly, whey protein also improves body mass composition by increasing lean mass and decreasing fat mass.
  • Pea Protein – Pea protein powder is made by extracting protein content from yellow peas. It is a high-quality protein, along with being an excellent source of Iron. Pea protein contains all the nine essential amino acids that are not manufactured by the body. However, the amount of Methionine in pea protein is comparatively low, although it can be compensated by including other methionine-rich sources in your diet. These foods are eggs, poultry, fish, pork, beef, or brown rice. It also contains large amounts of Leucine and Valine that promote muscle development and growth. Out of all the plant-based proteins, pea protein is the most easily digested.
  • Egg Protein – Eggs are an excellent source of protein. Egg Protein powders are typically made from egg whites instead of whole eggs. Eggs, like all other animal protein sources, are a complete protein source, containing all the nine essential amino acids required for growth and development that are not synthesized by the body itself. Moreover, Egg protein is the second-highest Leucine source, after whey protein. Eggs are one of the best protein powder that decreases appetite and helps you stay full for longer; however, since egg protein doesn’t contain the full-fat yolk part, it may not be as fulfilling and satiating the whole egg.
  • Although hemp is related to Marijuana, it only contains trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive component linked to Marijuana. It is a popular nutritional supplement used by bodybuilders and athletes. It helps to gain muscle mass and increase weight. Hemp protein is made by grinding hemp seeds until they form a fine powder. It comes with a nutty, earthy taste and is a high-quality, vegan protein source. Hemp protein powder contains all of the nine essential amino acids that humans extract from food, along with healthy fats, minerals, and fiber. However, it has a low amount of the essential amino acid Lysine. Moreover, it contains less protein content per serving (about 50%), as compared to other plant-based protein sources such as Soy or Pea.
  • Brown Rice Protein – Although not the best protein source, brown rice protein has been in use for a while now. However, it can be a suitable option for people preferring natural ingredients or follow a plant-based diet. It is derived from brown rice and made into a refined powder. Brown rice protein is shown to increase lean body mass, increase skeletal muscle growth and recovery, decrease fat mass, and enhance strength and power in the muscles and body. Unfortunately, although brown rice contains all the nine essential amino acids that make it a complete protein, the amount of Lysine in it is very low.
For people with vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, plant-based proteins such as pea and hemp are the ideal choices.

What the Research Says

The FDA doesn’t approve supplements for safety or effectiveness before they’re sold, and supplement quality varies.[1] Most people can meet their nutrient needs from food.[2] Be wary of ads that promise fast or dramatic results.[3]

Sources

  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dietary Supplements. Accessed October 16, 2026.
  2. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. Accessed October 16, 2026.
  3. Federal Trade Commission. Health Products Compliance Guidance. Accessed October 16, 2026.

Update History

  • Oct 2026: Guide reviewed and updated; added Sources (FDA, NIH ODS, FTC)
  • Mar 2021: First published

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About the Author

Eliza Ward

Eliza Ward is a writer, nature lover and full-time mother of three, based in South Africa. She writes Organic Aspirations' guides to organic food, nutrition basics and family products. She researches each product from manufacturer information and organic and safety certifications (checked with the certifier where possible), along with guidance from health authorities, and she cites her sources. She is not a medical professional and does not test products hands-on. How we research products.