Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just the average Joe looking to boost your protein intake, you’ve probably considered getting yourself some protein powder. The problem with many protein powders is that sometimes they can contain needless additives, like artificial sweeteners.
All of the protein powders on this list do not contain the following artificial sweeteners:
- Sucralose
- Acesulfame potassium
- Aspartame
- Erythritol
Instead, the protein powders featured on this list are sweetened with natural alternatives like stevia, monk fruit extract, coconut sugar, cane sugar, or Reb-m.
So, here’s a look at the best protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
Our top recommendation is 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs. Not only is only sweetened with a bit of stevia, but it also is available in a slew of delicious flavors and is packed with 28 grams of grass-fed protein in each serving.
If you're looking for a high quality, clean protein powder, Transparent Labs' 100% Grass Fed Whey Isolate is an excellent choice.
With a slew of delicious flavors and a totally transparent, clean label, this is a premium product.
Discount code:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
If you’re looking to save a few bucks, then don’t miss Myprotein’s Impact Whey Protein. They have a “chocolate stevia” flavor available for just $0.63/serving if you use the code MYPLIFTVAULT. This is by far the best deal you can get on flavored whey protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
Related:
Table of Contents
- 1 The 8 Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners or Sucralose
- 1.1 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- 1.2 Impact Whey Protein Powder – Myprotein
- 1.3 100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- 1.4 Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- 1.5 Essential Protein Powder – Ritual
- 1.6 Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
- 1.7 Whey Protein Concentrate – Naked Nutrition
- 1.8 Pea Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- 2 What Artificial Sweeteners Are Commonly Found In Protein Powder?
- 3 What Natural Sweeteners Are Commonly Found In Protein Powder?
- 4 What Are Some Pros And Cons Of Artificial Sweeteners?
- 5 Benefits Of Avoiding Artificial Sweeteners In Protein Powder
- 6 FAQs About Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners
The 8 Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners or Sucralose
- 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- Impact Whey Protein – Myprotein
- 100% Grass Fed Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- Essential Protein Powder – Ritual
- Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
- Whey Protein Concentrate – Naked Nutrition
- Pea Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
If you're looking for a high quality, clean protein powder, Transparent Labs' 100% Grass Fed Whey Isolate is an excellent choice.
With a slew of delicious flavors and a totally transparent, clean label, this is a premium product.
Discount code:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
To kickstart this roundup, we have one of the best whey protein isolate powders on the market: 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs. This whey protein powder is a standout choice because it’s a complete package, offering purity and quality that’s hard to beat.
One of the reasons why people love Transparent Labs products is because of their “transparency.” Their protein powders are third-party tested to ensure the highest standards, giving you peace of mind with every scoop.
Yes, they do this with pretty much all their products but what sets this protein powder apart is its clean ingredient list. It contains no artificial ingredients and is sweetened with stevia, a natural sweetener. This makes it a healthier choice and also arguably the best-tasting protein powder on our list.
If you’re watching your carb and sugar intake, then this protein powder is a dream come true. It’s low-carb, has no added sugar, and each serving delivers a solid 28 grams of protein. Lastly, it has less than 1% lactose, so it’s easy on the stomach, even for those with lactose sensitivity.
You can check out our review of other great grass-fed whey protein powders for an all-around comparison.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Whey isolate
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract
Impact Whey Protein Powder – Myprotein
Impact Whey Protein delivers 21 grams of high-quality whey protein at a great price. If you're looking for the best cheap protein powder, this is it!
Discount codes:
MYPLIFTVAULT = 35% off + free US shipping
Impact Whey Protein Powder from Myprotein is our top choice for anyone seeking a cheap protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
How cheap?
If you use the MYPLIFTVAULT coupon code you can bring the final price down to just $0.63/serving including shipping!
There’s just one catch: you have to choose the “chocolate stevia” or “unflavored” flavors.
Even though choosing chocolate is not a big sacrifice for most people, we wanted to call that out in case you really don’t like chocolate flavored whey protein powder. If that’s the case, then you will want to choose one of the other options on this list that are available in other flavors.
Myprotein used to also have a “vanilla stevia” flavor, but it doesn’t seem to be available at the moment. You can always check their list of flavors on the product page to see if it’s back in stock.
100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
For those who prefer slower absorbing protein, the casein protein from Transparent Labs is a great choice. It's an excellent choice to help you feel full longer during the day or aid muscle repair over night.
Discount code:
LV10 = 10% off order at Transparent Labs
This is easily the best casein protein powder that doesn’t have any artificial sweeteners. If you’re a bodybuilder or someone who just likes being active in general, this may be the protein blend you’ve been looking for. This is mainly because of the slow-release properties that make it perfect for aiding muscle recovery while you sleep.
Each serving delivers an impressive 25 grams of casein from 100% grass-fed cows and it’s naturally sweetened with stevia, so it’ll give you a delightful taste without any added sugars, fillers, or artificial flavor.
Another bonus with this protein powder is that it mixes well, regardless of whether you’re using water or milk for your protein shakes, making it a super convenient choice.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Casein protein
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract
Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
Transparent Lab's Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein Powder is an excellent choice for vegans and anyone seeking a lactose-free protein powder.
Discount codes:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
If you want an organic protein powder without any artificial sweeteners, then this product is exactly what you need. Besides being one of the best vegan protein powders on the market, this plant-based protein powder is also great for maintaining good gut health.
It’s made from organic rice protein and pea protein isolate. And, despite being plant-based, it doesn’t skimp on the protein content. Each serving will give you a solid 24 grams of protein, making it a fantastic alternative to casein and whey protein powder, and one of the best lactose-free protein powders available.
Plus, it’s free from GMOs, soy protein, added sugar, and artificial ingredients, so you won’t be putting any junk in your body. It’s available in tasty chocolate and vanilla flavors which can be mixed well into protein shakes or baked goods.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Protein source: Organic rice protein, Organic pea protein isolate
- Sweetener: Organic Stevia leaf extract
Essential Protein Powder – Ritual
Never forget to stock up on protein powder again with Essential Protein from Ritual! After subscribing, you'll receive your monthly supply of protein powder so you're always hitting your nutrition goals. Recognized as one of the best protein powders without artificial sweeteners.
Nowadays, our busy lifestyles often result in our diet suffering, especially after we’ve endured a long work week. This is where subscription services become incredibly useful and this is why we picked Ritual’s Essential Protein Powder as the best protein powder subscription without artificial sweeteners.
Its subscription model ensures your protein supply never runs dry, saving you countless trips to the store. This product is also made from organic yellow pea protein, so the protein you’ll be getting will be top-quality! More importantly, it’s sweetened with monk fruit and Reb-M, which give it a nice sweetness without the extra sugar.
It’s a clean protein powder packed with essential amino acids that tastes great and can be enjoyed on a regular basis. Trust us, keeping up with your daily protein intake has never been easier!
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 115
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Protein source: Organic pea protein
- Sweetener: Organic Monk fruit extract, Reb-M
Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
Squeaky clean vegan protein powder made from organic Canadian yellow peas.
Contains no hormones, GMOs, fillers, glyphosate, gums, glutes, soy, antibiotics, etc.
Promix makes one of the best vegan protein powders. Besides being free of artificial flavors and sweeteners, this protein powder is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with 25 grams of protein and 5.2 grams of branched-chain amino acids and it’s enriched with 200% of your daily value of vitamin B12 in every serving.
Plus, it’s made from highly bioavailable organic Canadian yellow peas and without gluten, soy, GMOs, or refined sugar, making it easy to digest and blend. To add to this, the facility that makes it is widely known for strictly following Good Manufacturing Practice standards, ensuring safety and the highest quality.
With Promix’s Vegan Protein Powder, you’re not just getting an artificial sweetener-free protein supplement, you’re investing in your health and performance.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 115
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Pea protein powder and brown rice protein powder
- Sweetener: Monk fruit, Coconut sugar
Whey Protein Concentrate – Naked Nutrition
Do you still want the benefits of the nutrients found in milk? Naked Nutrition’s Whey Protein Concentrate is your answer as the best whey concentrate. Whey concentrate is a form of whey protein that retains most of the beneficial nutrients found in the original milk. It’s basically less processed than whey isolates, making it a popular choice for those wanting a more natural protein supplement.
One reason why we love Naked Nutrion’s products is because of their commitment to quality and transparency. For this product, the whey protein is sourced from small dairy farms in Northern California and Idaho, where their growth hormone-free cows are grass-fed and free-roaming.
Each serving will give you 25 grams of protein and 5.9 grams of essential amino acids. Best of all, Naked Whey is free of additives and those pesky artificial sweeteners, further showing the brand’s commitment to keeping you healthy over their bottom line.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Protein source: Whey protein concentrate
- Sweetener: Organic coconut sugar
Pea Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
Top-shelf, ultra-pure pea protein isolate with one ingredient: peas.
No added sugar, no artificial anything.
Just high-quality protein powder.
We’d comfortably call this one of the best unflavored protein powders at the moment. Pea Protein Powder by Naked Nutrition is our top pick for the best pea protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
This protein powder is as pure as it gets thanks to a single ingredient: pea proteins taken from yellow split peas. Pea protein is usually easily absorbed by the body, which is why it’s a popular plant-based protein and alternative to whey protein.
Naked Pea Protein Powder is free of additives and artificial sweeteners, once again reflecting the brand’s commitment to delivering clean products that make competitors sweat. Plus, it’s independently third-party tested for heavy metals, giving you an extra layer of assurance.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 27 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Yellow pea protein powder
- Sweetener: Coconut sugar (Flavored protein powders)
What Artificial Sweeteners Are Commonly Found In Protein Powder?
Sucralose
Sucralose is a zero-calorie artificial sweetener that is pretty much the most common one used. They make it by modifying the structure of a sugar molecule. This results in a substance that’s around 600 times sweeter than regular sugar.
Despite being so sweet, the human body doesn’t recognize sucralose as a carbohydrate and because of this, doesn’t metabolize it, which means it’s calorie-free. Yes, a lot of food regulatory bodies do consider sucralose to be safe for consumption but some studies have raised concerns about its potential effects on gut health and blood glucose levels.
Some people may also find that it has a slightly bitter aftertaste or upsets their gut. In general, the cons of consuming artificial sweeteners generally outweigh the pros.
None of the protein powders on this list contain sucralose.
Acesulfame potassium
Also known as acesulfame K or Ace-K, acesulfame potassium is another common zero-calorie artificial sweetener found in protein powders. It’s around 200 times sweeter than sugar and, much like sucralose, the body doesn’t metabolize it. Manufacturers usually use acesulfame potassium in combination with other sweeteners to get rid of their aftertaste.
While it’s also considered safe by food regulators, there have been studies that suggest potential links to changes in gut microbiota and insulin resistance. As you should do with all sweeteners, it’s important to consume Ace-K in moderation and take note of how your body reacts to it. If you experience any negative side effects, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
None of the protein powders on this list contain acesulfame potassium.
Erythritol
Erythritol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in certain fruits and fermented foods, is often industrially produced from corn starch (meaning it’s often artificially produced when used in food products). It’s widely used in protein powders as a low-calorie sweetener due to its similar taste to table sugar but with almost zero calories. Unlike other sugar alcohols like xylitol and sorbitol, erythritol does not spike blood sugar levels, making it a preferred choice for protein powders aimed at diabetics or those seeking a low FODMAP protein powder.
However, erythritol does have potential side effects. When consumed in large amounts, such as in protein powders, it can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This is due to erythritol not being fully absorbed in the small intestine, thus it travels to the large intestine where it can draw in water or be fermented by gut bacteria. Despite these effects, erythritol is generally better tolerated than other sugar alcohols, and the side effects are usually less severe. Plus, unlike regular sugar, erythritol doesn’t contribute to tooth decay, making it a safer sweetener for oral health.
None of the protein powders featured in this list contain erythritol.
What Natural Sweeteners Are Commonly Found In Protein Powder?
Stevia
Stevia comes from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, also called sweet leaf or candy leaf, which is native to South America. It’s become a popular choice in protein powders without artificial sweeteners and for diabetics. This is because of its zero-calorie content and ability to sweeten products without adding any carbohydrates.
You’ll find that it tastes significantly sweeter than sugar, so only small amounts are needed to achieve the desired sweetness. It’s often combined with other natural sweeteners to create a well-balanced sweetness.
Stevia is generally seen as safe and even beneficial for those watching their sugar intake but some people may find that it has a slightly bitter aftertaste. This aside, many people love its natural origins and use in sugar-free products.
Monk Fruit extract
Monk fruit extract is another natural sweetener that’s gaining popularity in protein powders. They get it from a small melon-like fruit in Southeast Asia and it’s also around 200 times sweeter than sugar. Like stevia, monk fruit extract contains zero calories and carbohydrates, which makes it a great choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake or lose weight.
Unlike other sweeteners, monk fruit extract doesn’t have a bitter aftertaste, which is why so many people and supplement companies prefer using it. It’s also thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties because of the presence of compounds called mogrosides. Although this sweetener has its benefits, you should still consume it in moderation.
Coconut sugar
Next up we have, coconut sugar. This natural sweetener comes from the sap of the coconut palm tree and is often used because of the subtle sweetness that it provides. Most people liken its taste to brown sugar, with a subtle hint of caramel.
What’s different about coconut sugar is that it does contain calories and carbohydrates, but it makes up for this by being rich in certain minerals and providing a small amount of fiber. Also, its glycemic index is lower than regular sugar, which means it may cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels. But, it’s still a form of sugar, so use it wisely!
Cane sugar
As the name suggests, cane sugar comes from the sugarcane plant. It has a well-liked sweet taste which is why it’s also a popular option for supplement manufacturers. This natural sweetener also contains calories and carbohydrates, but it’s much less processed compared to some other forms of sugar, retaining some minerals as a result.
Do note that the nutritional differences between cane sugar and regular sugar are very little. While it provides some nice natural sweetness, those wanting to reduce their sugar consumption or manage specific health conditions might prefer protein powders sweetened with zero-calorie alternatives.
Reb-m
And lastly, we have Reb-M, another zero-calorie sweetener that’s taken out of the stevia plant. It’s one of the “steviol glycosides” found in stevia plants and also doesn’t have a bitter aftertaste.
Reb-M will give you the sweetness of sugar but without the calories, so you won’t have to worry much about your weight or blood sugar levels. It’s made through a fermentation process, which makes it a high-quality, great-tasting sweetener.
What Are Some Pros And Cons Of Artificial Sweeteners?
Sucralose
Pros
- Doesn’t contribute to daily calorie intake.
- It’s 600 times sweeter than sugar, so you only need a small amount.
- Unlike other sweeteners, it doesn’t break down when heated, making it convenient for cooking and baking.
Cons
- Research suggests that sucralose may negatively impact the gut health.
- According to studies, it may negatively affect insulin and blood glucose levels.
- Some people find sucralose to have a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Aspartame
Pros
- About 200 times sweeter than sugar.
- Won’t contribute to daily calorie intake.
- Commonly used and trusted around the world.
Cons
- Studies have linked aspartame to health issues.
- Some people claim it has a bitter or chemical-like aftertaste.
- People with Phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid aspartame because they can’t metabolize phenylalanine.
Saccharin
Pros
- It’s 300 to 400 times sweeter than sugar.
- Has been used as a sweetener for over a century.
- Contains no calories and can be beneficial for weight management.
Cons
- May have a slightly bitter or metallic aftertaste.
- Not ideal for cooking or baking as it can lose its sweetness when heated.
- Early studies linked saccharin to cancer in lab rats, but it has since been declared safe for human consumption.
Stevia
Pros
- Doesn’t add any calories.
- A natural alternative to artificial sweeteners.
- Doesn’t raise blood sugar levels, making it suitable for people with diabetes.
Cons
- Tends to have a bitter aftertaste.
- Some stevia products are mixed with other sweeteners, including artificial ones.
- Some products labeled as “stevia” are actually highly processed and don’t use the whole leaf.
Benefits Of Avoiding Artificial Sweeteners In Protein Powder
Improved gut health
Although they may seem harmless, artificial sweeteners can have a huge impact on your gut health. According to research, sweeteners can negatively affect the gut microbiota, which is the community of good bacteria that live in your digestive tract.
Disrupting the microbiota can potentially lead to issues with the digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can then cause discomfort and other health problems. By choosing a protein powder that doesn’t have artificial sweeteners, you’re taking a big step towards keeping your gut healthy, which is essential for overall health and well-being.
Reduced risk of metabolic disorders
Some studies have found a link between consuming artificial sweeteners and developing an increased risk of metabolic disorders. These disorders include conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes, both of which can have serious effects on your long-term health.
Consuming artificial sweeteners can trick the body into thinking it’s consuming sugar, which can lead to you developing insulin resistance over time. So, do your best to avoid these artificial sweeteners, especially in your protein powder, and you’ll significantly reduce these risks and improve your metabolic health.
Avoidance of potential side effects
Like with most consumable substances, sweeteners can come with a lot of potential side effects, despite them being generally recognized as safe by food regulatory bodies. Some people may experience side effects from ingesting them, like headaches, migraines, and bloating, in addition to gas and other digestive issues.
These side effects can be very disruptive if you’re having protein powder as part of your regular fitness routine. Go for a protein powder without artificial sweeteners so that it can help you avoid these potential side effects and make your protein supplementation more comfortable.
Reduced cravings for sweet foods
The interesting thing about artificial sweeteners is that, despite being sugar-free, they may potentially increase your cravings for sweet foods. This is because they can trick your brain into thinking you’re actually eating sugar, leading to increased appetite and potentially overeating.
Some research suggests that this can increase your consumption of calories, which is ineffective if you’re using protein powder for weight management or as part of a fitness plan. Bottom line, pick a protein powder without any artificial sweeteners, so you can help keep your cravings in check and stay on track with your health goals.
FAQs About Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners
Protein powders without artificial sweeteners are usually sweetened with alternatives like stevia, coconut sugar, or monk fruit extract.
Some good examples include the 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs, the Pea Protein Powder by Naked Nutrition, and Vegan Protein Powder by Promix.
These brands have made a conscious effort to provide clean protein powders without artificial sweeteners.
Definitely not!
Many protein powders on the market do contain artificial sweeteners but there are plenty that don’t. In fact, some protein powders don’t have any sweeteners at all, giving you a flavorless protein powder that can be mixed into any drink or food without changing the taste. Others opt for natural sweeteners like stevia, coconut sugar, and monk fruit extract.
Just make sure that you always read the label before buying.
Multiple studies have found that artificial sweeteners can have several negative side effects. Some people may experience stomach issues, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. There’s also evidence to suggest that artificial sweeteners can increase cravings for sweet foods, which can then lead to weight gain.
Also, some research has linked artificial sweeteners to an increased risk of metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes. So, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about artificial sweeteners in your diet.
