If you’re looking for the best grass-fed protein powders on the market, then you’ve landed on the right page – and you don’t need to be a gym bunny to understand this!
So without beating around the bush – or should we say weight rack – let’s jump right into the good stuff by uncovering the very best grass-fed protein powders of 2024.
If you just want to know our favorite grass-fed protein powder, that honor goes to 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate from Transparent Labs. It’s clean, delicious, and nutritious – everything you could ask for.
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 see the rest of the list, read on!
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Table of Contents
- 1 The 6 Top Recommended Grass-Fed Protein Powders
- 1.1 Best Overall: Transparent Labs – 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
- 1.2 Best Grass-fed Whey Concentrate Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition – Whey Concentrate
- 1.3 Best Chocolate-Flavored Whey Protein Isolate: Promix – Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
- 1.4 Best Grass-fed Casein Protein Powder: Transparent Labs – Grass-Fed Casein Protein Powder
- 1.5 Key features
- 1.6 Honorable Mention: Promix – Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate
- 1.7 Honorable Mention: Levels – Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate
- 2 Benefits Of Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powders
- 3 What To Look For When Buying Whey Protein Powder
- 4 Which Whey To Go: How To Decide Between Whey Isolate and Whey Concentrate
- 5 Protein Powder Consumption Tips: The Inside Scoop
- 6 FAQs
The 6 Top Recommended Grass-Fed Protein Powders
- 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- Whey Concentrate Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- Grass-Fed Whey Isolate – Promix
- Grass-Fed Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate Protein Powder – Promix
- Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate Protein Powder – Levels
Best Overall: Transparent Labs – 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
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
- Best for: Enhanced muscle growth and recovery and the best flavor options
- Why: The purest form of protein
- Good for: Lactose-intolerance
- Flavors: Unflavored, chocolate peanut butter, milk chocolate, French vanilla, oatmeal choc chip, strawberry, vanilla peanut butter, mocha, cinnamon French toast
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate boasts an impressive protein-by-weight ratio of 82%, equaling to an amount of 28 grams of protein per single serving.
It does rank as having the best flavor options across our leadership board, in our opinion, and its milk protein is derived from American cattle that are exclusively grass-fed and grass-finished.
Transparent Labs lives up to their name and is very transparent with their testing. Their 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate has been third-party tested for heavy metals, and you can view the certificates online. This earned it a place onto our list of the best protein powders without heavy metals.
It’s also recognized as one of the best whey isolate protein powders and best protein powders for teens!
Key features
- Free from artificial sweeteners
- Free from artificial preservatives
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
- No artificial coloring
Best Grass-fed Whey Concentrate Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition – Whey Concentrate
- Best for: Building and maintaining lean muscle mass
- Why: Single-source whey protein
- Good for: Soy-intolerance
- Flavors: Chocolate, strawberry, vanilla
The whey protein used in Naked Nutrition’s Whey Concentrate is obtained from small dairy farms in Northern California and Idaho. The cows used to provide this milk protein are able to roam freely, graze on grass, and are not given any hormones such as rBGH or rBST.
This whey protein powder may not pack a 28-gram protein punch like its Transparent Lab rival but comes very close!
With 25 grams of protein per serving plus 5.9 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), Naked’s single-sourced, grass-fed Whey Concentrate protein powder can gladly take the bronze medal in our books.
Key features
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
- Soy-free
- Free from artificial flavors and sweeteners
- Free from artificial preservatives
Best Chocolate-Flavored Whey Protein Isolate: Promix – Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
- Best for: Building muscle and improved recovery
- Why: High protein and amino acid content
- Good for: Lactose-intolerance
- Flavors: Unflavored, chocolate, vanilla
Promix’s Grass-fed Whey Isolate provides a whopping 30 grams of protein per serving along with 6,6 grams of branched-chain amino acids! This high-protein, low-carb supplement definitely has ‘knocked it out of the gym’ in our books and its chocolate flavor protein powder is by far the best.
Even though it does contain small amounts of the natural emulsifier, sunflower lecithin, you can’t beat its 0.5 grams of fat.
This grass-fed whey protein isolate is only produced during the summer months when cows graze on nutrient-rich pastures. This low-lactose formula (less than 1%) is specifically designed for easier digestion, making it an ideal protein powder for those suffering from lactose intolerance.
Key features
- Free from artificial sweeteners
- Free from artificial preservatives
- Gluten-free, soy-free and non-GMO
- Free from hormones
Best Grass-fed Casein Protein Powder: Transparent Labs – Grass-Fed Casein Protein Powder
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
- Best for: Improved muscle recovery and repair
- Why: Slow-digesting form of protein
- Good for: Nighttime use
- Flavors: Chocolate only
This chocolate-flavored, grass-fed casein powder makes the perfect nighttime protein supplement, with 25 grams of protein per serving. You can also take it to fight off hunger pangs during the day.
Its slow and steady release of essential amino acids throughout the night makes it great for recovery and improved muscle repair.
This protein supplement is derived from grass-fed cows and is naturally sweetened using stevia. In fact, we enjoyed the vanilla flavor so much that we included it on our list of the best vanilla protein powders.
However, due to its slightly higher carb count compared to Naked Nutrition’s Whey Concentrate protein powder, it just didn’t quite make the ‘cut’ for us on the protein ladder – no pun intended.
Key features
- No added sugars
- No artificial additives
- Naturally gluten-free
Honorable Mention: Promix – Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate
- Best for: Building muscle and improved recovery
- Why: High protein content
- Good for: Gluten-intolerance
- Flavors: Unflavored, raw chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter, chocolate peanut butter, one ingredient whey
This whey protein concentrate powder contains 25 grams of protein per serving along with 5.9 grams of branched-chain amino acids and omega 3s. Promix sources its whey protein from heritage-breed cows in North California, through partnerships with family farms; resulting in a far superior form of protein powder.
Unfortunately, due to its higher fat content when compared to Transparent Labs Casein Protein, it just didn’t manage to outrank its competitors.
Key features
- Contains omega-3s and CLA
- Free from artificial sweeteners and preservatives
- Gluten-free, soy-free and non-GMO
- Free from hormones
Honorable Mention: Levels – Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate
- Best for: Building lean muscle mass
- Why: The least processed form of whey protein
- Good for: Soy and gluten intolerances
- Flavors: Unflavored, double chocolate, pure chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, vanilla bean, strawberry, vanilla cinnamon, chocolate mocha, cappuccino
Lastly, this grass-fed whey protein concentrate offers 24 grams of protein per serving as opposed to its fellow protein-rich pals.
But don’t let that deter you though; this high-quality whey protein powder is probably the least processed form of whey protein on the market and packs a mean amino-acid punch!
With its vast variety of flavored protein powders, it easily secures the second spot on our list of top flavor choices.
Key features
- Free from artificial sweeteners
- Free from hormones
- Gluten-free, soy-free and non-GMO
- No fillers
Benefits Of Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powders
So, as we’ve mentioned, grass-fed protein powder derives from cows that are exclusively raised on a natural grass diet, setting them apart from their grain-fed counterparts. Research shows that the beneficial nutrients of choosing these grass-fed protein powders over grain-fed types are immense, making them a better choice overall.
Apart from the ‘typical’ benefits of whey protein powders such as increased muscle mass and improved recovery and repair, here are a few key advantages associated with grass-fed whey protein that you may not have known.
1. Enhanced omega-3 fatty acid content
Studies have shown that grass-fed dairy and meat products contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids when compared to their grain-fed counterparts. Grass-fed whey protein powders are particularly rich in omega-3s.
Omega-3 is a crucial mineral that should be included in one’s diet as it offers numerous benefits such as combating depression and anxiety, reducing inflammation, improving vision, and supporting metabolic and brain function.
2. Higher conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) levels
Grass-fed dairy products (and in turn, grass-fed whey protein powders) have been found to contain higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid, more commonly known as, CLA. CLA is a type of fat mainly associated with weight-loss benefits such as speeding up metabolic rates, stimulating fat breakdown, reducing body fat, and improving immune function.
3. Hormone, antibiotic, and GMO-free
When compared to grain-fed cows, grass-fed cows are less likely to be treated with antibiotics and growth hormones, resulting in a clean protein powder. The grass they graze on is also kept chemical and pesticide-free, being more ecologically responsible.
4. Environmentally friendly
Compared to conventional grain-fed farming, grass-fed cow farming is much more environmentally friendly. By choosing grass-fed whey protein powders, you are supporting ethical and sustainable farming methods.
Higher protein and amino acid content
Grass-fed whey proteins are known for their higher protein content when compared to other conventional protein powders. This means that each serving is rich in essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein. These amino acids play a vital role in the body, stimulating increased muscle growth and aiding in quicker repair and recovery.
Muscle synthesis and repair
These phenomenal little ‘amino-building blocks’ play a pivotal role in generating muscle synthesis, the process whereby new muscle proteins are produced. This is crucial for muscle tissue growth and repair after intense workouts or physical activity.
Supplying your body with grass-fed whey protein supplements replenishes these essential amino acids required for muscle growth and repair.
Amino acid profile
As you probably know by now, amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of protein, and grass-fed whey protein powder is packed with them.
Unlike other protein powders on the market, these amino acids deliver their benefits without any deceptive ‘protein-spiking’ techniques. Here we look at three of the most significant amino acids found in grass-fed whey protein powders.
- Leucine
This branched-chain amino acid activates the molecule signaling pathways responsible for initiating muscle protein synthesis, ultimately promoting muscle mass and growth.
- Isoleucine
This branched-chain amino acid helps to control blood sugar levels while boosting energy and endurance. It also aids in the speedy recovery of injured muscles and promotes lean muscle mass.
- Valine
This branched-chain amino acid enhances energy, increases endurance, and aids in muscle tissue repair whilst increasing growth hormone production.
Easy and convenient
Adding to the health benefits of whey protein supplements, adding protein shakes to your daily routine is a quick, easy, and convenient way to hit your daily protein macronutrient target. It is perfect for those who are using calorie counters or closely monitoring their food intake; as you know exactly how much protein you are putting into your body.
What To Look For When Buying Whey Protein Powder
With so many protein powders available on the market, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. However, we have already compared six of the best protein powders earlier in this article, taking into consideration several deciding factors. Let’s take a look at our findings.
Flavor
Selecting a flavor is important when it comes to choosing a whey protein powder, as essentially you will be drinking this every day and there’s nothing worse than a taste you cannot stand!
All of the brands earlier mentioned have a vast array of flavors to choose from, such as chocolate peanut butter, vanilla bean, and strawberry as well as unflavored protein powder for those who prefer this taste profile.
Side note: Promix’s chocolate-flavored grass-fed whey protein isolate is by far the best!
Sugar content
Always check the values on your protein powder’s nutrition labels, especially if you are tracking your macros and following a strict eating plan.
While some protein powders contain added sugar for extra flavor, some are naturally sweetened with stevia, such as Transparent Lab’s grass-fed casein protein powder.
If avoiding artificial sweeteners is important to you, then don’t miss our guide to the best protein powders without artificial sweeteners.
Protein quality
This seems pretty obvious but accessing the quality of the protein is crucial. If a brand provides detailed information about the protein’s origin, amino acid breakdown profile, and third-party testing methods, then it indicates transparency and adherence to quality standards. (All of the protein powders we researched met these criteria!)
Consider researching protein quality assessments or seek advice from a trained professional to make an informed decision.
Amino acid profile
Look for protein powders that provide a complete breakdown of amino acids on the label, including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These high-quality essential amino acids found in whey protein are crucial for muscle growth, recovery, and repair.
Protein spiking
Don’t be fooled and fall into the ‘protein spiking’ trap, where some brands bulk their protein powders with added amino acids without disclosing the full amino acid profile on the label. Stay clear of names such as glycine, glutamine, arginine, and creatine, often found on the “other ingredients” list.
Fitness goals
Before purchasing a whey protein powder, first, consider your fitness and training goals as this has a significant effect on the type of protein you would need. The recommended daily protein intake varies based on factors such as activity level, body weight, age, and muscle-building objectives.
If your goal is to build muscle with quicker recovery times, you may need a protein powder with a higher protein content per serving, such as Promix’s grass-fed whey isolate.
Alternatively, if your goal is just to increase your protein intake, a protein powder with a moderate protein content per serving, as such Naked Nutrition’s Whey Concentrate or Promix’s Grass-fed Whey Concentrate (both containing 25 grams of protein), may suffice.
Which Whey To Go: How To Decide Between Whey Isolate and Whey Concentrate
One of the biggest differences between these two whey protein supplements is the lactose content.
Whey protein isolate undergoes additional processing methods which remove most of the lactose, resulting in a product that contains lower traces of lactose enzymes; making Transparent Lab’s 100% Grass-fed Whey Protein Isolate the best choice for lactose free protein powder.
On the contrary, grass-fed whey protein concentrate contain a higher level of lactose.
In terms of nutritional composition, whey protein isolate typically contains fewer calories in comparison to its concentrate counterpart; making it marginally better for those wanting to stay in a calorie deficit.
Another important consideration between these two dietary supplements is cost. Grass-fed whey concentrate is generally cheaper than whey isolates; making the concentrate version far more economical for those working on a budget.
Protein Powder Consumption Tips: The Inside Scoop
Macro tracking
Consistency and appropriate consumption amounts based on your body weight and fitness goals are key factors to consider when using any whey protein supplement. While the time at which you take your protein may have minor benefits, rather focus on reaching your daily protein intake instead.
Using a macro tracker may be helpful in tracking your daily calorie intake and weight. This effective tool also helps you to determine your TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) which is the number of calories you burn in a day.
Top tip: To support sustainable weight gain, aim to consume 300 – 500 calories above your TDEE per day.
Protein intake
When it comes to protein intake, aim for 0.7 grams of protein per pound of lean body mass. A quick calculation for this is to subtract your body fat weight from your total body weight.
For example, if someone weighs 120 pounds with 20% body fat, their lean body mass would be 96 pounds (120 – (120 X 20%)).
If your goal is to bulk up, incorporating a whey protein supplement may be helpful to achieve this. Adding 16 ounces of milk to a protein powder serving can contribute an extra 300 calories and 16 grams of protein to your total daily tally.
To further increase calorie intake, consider adding nut butter, coconut oil, or raw honey to your shakes. (This may not be necessary if your goal is to enhance lean muscle mass.)
FAQs
Why is grass-fed whey protein better than grain-fed protein?
Grass-fed whey protein is far better for the environment with its ethical farming methods. The cow’s milk protein used in grass-fed whey protein powders is sourced from cows that are able to roam freely and eat natural grass, as opposed to their grain-fed friends.
Grain-fed proteins also tend to have higher antibiotic and hormone levels, which are then filtered through into grain-fed protein supplements, causing havoc to our bodies.
What is a good amount of protein per serving for whey protein shakes?
As a general rule of thumb, any good-quality protein supplementation should provide you with a minimum of 20 grams of protein per serving for optimal benefits.
What is sunflower lecithin and is it found in grass-fed proteins?
Firstly, sunflower lecithin, extracted from the sunflower plant using a cold-processed method, serves as a natural emulsifier. This popular ingredient is known for its ability to prevent clumping and bind substances together, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture.
Secondly, whey protein manufacturing is an example of using sunflower lecithin in its products. Promix is one particular protein powder brand that uses small amounts of sunflower lecithin to ensure a smoother blend.
