Hemp protein has fast gained popularity as a source of protein. For those who do not consume animal products, it is one of the most popular variants of the high-quality vegan protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, dietary fiber, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. By mixing it in your favorite shakes and smoothies, you can easily boost your daily protein intake. And, many variants and blends of hemp protein are available in the market.
What is Hemp Protein?
In short, the protein content in the seeds of the hemp plant is called hemp protein. It is produced by grinding the seeds of the plant. It is made up of two main types of proteins: edestin and albumin. Edestin content in the hemp seed is around 60-80%, and it is extremely rich in essential amino acids. The remaining 20-40% is albumin.
Hemp protein has a protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of 0.58, while, in hemp seeds, it is 0.62. It contains an essential amino acid called lysine that has around 94.9% digestibility and 87 biological value. The amino acid profile in hemp protein is at par with milk, meat, egg white, and soy products. In fact, the amount of essential amino acids in hemp protein is much higher than that in soy protein isolate.
Hemp seeds contain 20–25% protein, 20–30% carbohydrates, and 25–35% fat (oil). The rest is insoluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Up to 98% protein that can be derived from good-quality hemp seeds is easily digestible. Besides supporting optimum growth and faster muscle recovery, hemp protein can also reduce oxidative stress. Moreover, it also has some anti-fatigue effects.
Here’s our selection of 10 best hemp protein powders
1. Organic Hemp Protein by Nutiva
This hemp protein powder from the house of Nutiva is organic and cold-pressed. It is a great source of essential amino acids, protein, edestin, and essential fatty acids. Each serving will boost you with 0.53 oz of organic protein, 0.28 oz of pure fiber, and 0.07 oz of EFA.
Besides offering a spectrum of 20 amino acids, this powder also has the goodness of essential fatty acids and beneficial antioxidants. It has an Omega-3 linoleic acid to Omega-6 linoleic acid ratio of 1:3 that is ideal for the human body.
Its manufacturers have sourced pure whey from the organic farmers of Canada to make the finest and purest protein powder. Altogether, this powder will suit a gluten-free, ketogenic, paleo, vegan, vegetarian, whole food, and raw diet regime.
Specifications
- Flavor: Chocolate and Unflavored
- Quantity: 16 ounces, 30 ounces, and 48 ounces
Pros
- Made from sustainably-grown hemp seeds without heat use
- No GMO, harmful chemical, or hexane
- USDA-certified organic ingredients
- BPA-free safe and convenient packaging
Cons
- No FDA certification
- Requires almond milk for a good taste
2. Hemp Protein Powder by Raw Power
The by Raw Power is 100% pure hemp protein and 100% unprocessed and raw. This cold-processed powder is derived from unsprayed and organically-grown non-GMO hemp seeds, which support a vegan diet. Besides, it doesn’t contain any filler or binder. Each serving of this protein powder will give you 50% pure protein.
Besides being a rich source of BCAAs, this powder is packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids. As a result, it acquires the top place among the most easily digestible and beneficial protein in the vegan segment.
The manufacturers regularly test this product to maintain purity and standard. It tastes best with your pre or post-workout shakes. But, you can also sprinkle it on your salads or mix it with your favorite green smoothies.
Specifications
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Quantity: 16 ounces
Pros
- No preservative, additive, or harmful chemical
- Organically grown, without sprays or fertilizers
- Highly digestible
- Natural nutty flavor
Cons
- No FDA certification
- Slightly gritty, though less than other blends
3. Organic Cold-Milled Hemp Seed Protein by Jeff’s Best Hemp!
Jeff’s Best Hemp is a cold-milled hemp seed protein with 98% digestibility and absorption rate. Each serving of 1.06 oz will boost you with 0.2 oz of raw protein and 0.2 oz of fiber, along with Edestin Protein which is absolutely essential for muscle building and recovery.
It is manufactured from the hemp seed grown in Canadian organic farms. These operate according to the fair-deal policy, as the manufacturers pay them the right price for their crops. To eliminate any adverse effect, they strictly maintain no plastic-to-fat interaction in the manufacturing plant.
Besides, it will also help you to control the blood glucose level. This hemp protein powder is manufactured locally in small batches in a top-notch facility at Southern California to maintain maximum purity and freshness. They do not use any distributor chain, to ensure affordability.
Specifications
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Quantity: 16 ounces
Pros
- Organic, raw, and gluten-free
- Finest grind powder manufactured with cold-mill process
- Easily digestible and completely BPA-free
- Contains the full spectrum of amino acid profile
Cons
- No FDA certification
- No flavor
4. Hemp Protein Powder by True Nutrition
The hemp protein powder from the house of True Nutrition is really delicious and an optimum source of pure vegan protein. This organic powder is extremely rich in Omega-3 fatty acid and dietary fiber that comes directly from the hemp plant. Each serving of this mix with 8 to 12floz of your favourite liquid will charge you with 12 grams of pure protein and 7 grams of fibre. Besides being completely organic, this protein powder also contains the full spectrum of essential amino acids.
To maintain the optimum nutritional value, the hemp plants are organically harvested during the peak seasons of non-GMO farms in Canada. It is blended with stevia extract, acacia gum, and non-GMO rice powder to increase its taste factor. It has an exclusive nutty taste that goes well with chocolate, mocha, or vanilla smoothies. It can really be an ideal meal replacement blend for you.
Specifications
- Flavor: Chocolate, Vanilla, and Unflavored
- Quantity: 1lb and 5lbs
Pros
- Excellent source of organic protein and digestible fiber
- No soy, dairy, or gluten
- Comes in upright Mylar bag with EZ-Seal, and standard 70cc scoop
- Reliable manufacturer, trusted since 2003
Cons
- No FDA certification
- Not intended for the weight-reduction regime
5. Vegan Protein Powder by SimplySupplements
The uniquely-blended vegan protein powder from the house of SimplySupplements is an excellent mix of hemp, pumpkin, and pea seed protein. Each serving of this pure organic blend will deliver 0.8 oz of high-quality protein and more than 0.14 oz of branch-chain amino acids.
It has a great digestibility and absorption rate in the human body. Besides, it also has good solubility and mixes almost instantly in any of your favorite beverages. This blend contains cocoa powder and Himalayan pink salt to give it a distinct flavor. Besides, it only has stevia extracts as a natural sweetener.
It is manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility in the United Kingdom to maintain its purity. It is a complete vegan protein that can go well with almost any diet regime. This GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified manufacturing unit maintains the highest quality standard.
Specifications
- Flavor: Chocolate and Vanilla
- Quantity: 31.75 oz
Pros
- Contains nine essential amino acids
- No sugar substance
- Made in the UK at GMP-approved modern facilities
- Great taste and texture
Cons
- No FDA certification
- Cannot replace or substitute dietary sources of protein
6. Hemp Protein Mix by Raw Ingredients 4 Life
The Raw Ingredients 4 Life hemp protein mix alkalizes and mineralizes the human body, by boosting it with pure protein and vital nutrients. It is a great source of branch-chained amino acids that aid better growth and faster delivery of lean muscle.
This blend also contains essential fatty acids, digestible fiber, vitamins, and minerals to ensure optimum nutrition. It contains an anti-aging agent called spirulina which is the prime source of B-12. It also helps vegans to maintain healthy tissues and nerves, and aids cell generation and muscle growth.
It can also curb hunger by working like great filler. Besides offering 60% protein in each serving, this mix contains 18 different essential amino acids. Moreover, it has a phytonutrient called CGF that also works like a charm in the human body.
Specifications
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Quantity: 16 ounces
Pros
- Perfect blend hemp protein, chlorella, and spirulina
- Loaded with antioxidants, magnesium, iron, and essential trace minerals
- Easily digestible
- Increases immunity levels and stamina in athletes
Cons
- No FDA certification
- No flavor variant
7. Hemp Protein High-Fiber Powder by Life Giving Seeds
The protein high-fiber powder from the house of Life Giving Seeds contains just a single ingredient, i.e., hemp. It is an easy-to-digest protein-and-fiber mix that supports different diet regimes, from keto to pure vegan. Manufactured in the USA, this premium blend delivers optimum nutritional support to athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Each serving of 1.06 oz delivers around 20% pure protein, boosting your meal with 0.49 oz of plant-based protein; out of this, 0.25 oz is pure hemp protein. It will deliver you 2.6 grams of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
Besides, it has nine essential amino acids and raw enzymes. It also contains vital minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus. Moreover, it is loaded with vitamin B6, Thiamine, and folate.
Specifications:
Flavor: Unflavored
Quantity: 16 ounces
Pros
- This plant-based protein mix contains raw enzymes
- Exclusively made from USA-grown hemp seeds
- Supports good digestion and better assimilation
- Each serving has just 110 calories with just 25 calories from fat
Cons
- Doesn’t have any certification by the FDA
- Not intended to treat any disease
8. Hemp Protein Powder by Foods Alive
The Foods Alive hemp protein powder is widely considered as one of the best sources of vegan nutrition and is recommended by health experts and health enthusiasts alike. With 66% edestin, this is a type of high-quality protein.
Each serving of this plant-based mix has around 50% pure protein, with just 55 calories, out of which only 14 calories come from fat. It is a great source of natural antioxidants, chlorophyll, minerals, fibers, and vitamins. Besides, it also has a full range of amino acids and essential fatty acids.
A whole-food with three times vitamin E than flaxseed, this protein source can replace other supplements. It is easily digested because of no enzyme inhibitors and can fit into any diet. It has no sugar substance and is absolutely free from cholesterol.
Specifications:
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Quantity: Single pack, 2 packs, and 3 packs of 8 oz each
Pros
- Excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Organic and non-GMO ingredient
- Absolutely gluten-free, vegan, and Kosher
- Blends easily with your favorite beverages
Cons
- No FDA certification
- No flavor variant
9. Organic Plant Based Protein Powder by Sano
The organic plant-based protein powder by Sano is free from soy, dairy ingredient, whey, and sugar. It is perfectly suitable for almost any diet, like lactose-free, vegan, keto, paleo, and low-carb. Each serving contains 0.7 oz of protein from pea, flax, and hemp, along with 0.07 oz of fiber and 150 calories.
Besides hemp powder, this mix also contains many organic ingredients such as cacao powder, vanilla extract, pea protein, flaxseed, cinnamon bark, goji berries, and pink Himalayan salt. Manufacturers primarily use stevia leaf extract as a sweetener in this mix.
It comes in a handy single-serving sachet which you can mix and drink on the go. The compact size also makes it easy to carry in your gym bag or travel tote. Besides manufacturing this great protein mix, Sano also contributes a part of its profit in the water conservation projects to make the world a better place.
Specifications
- Flavor: Vanilla and Chocolate
- Quantity: 1.38 oz
Pros
- No artificial ingredients or GMO
- No extra calorie or artificial flavor
- Can be easily mixed with your favorite beverages
- Comes in eco-friendly package made from 100% recycled materials
Cons:
- No FDA certification
- Requires almond milk to support its taste
10. Hemp Protein Powder by Creative Nature
The protein powder mix from the house of Creative Nature uses hemp as the main ingredient. This makes it one of the most amazing sources of vegan protein. This mix assures a well-planned balance essential fatty acids and vital amino acids to support maximum recovery and growth factor.
This powder is made by cold-processing. This helps to maintain the nutritional value of the ingredients, as well as all the vital properties. Since its initial release in the online market, this protein powder instantly has been a favorite among the pro athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Each serving of this protein powder has 65% Globulin Edestin and 35% Albumin Protein. Besides an optimum level of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, it contains antioxidants like Chlorophyll, Tocotrieriols, and Tocopherols. Moreover, it offers vital nutrients like Beta-carotene, Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium, Sulphur, and Ascorbic acid.
Specifications
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Quantity: 10.58 oz
Pros
- Rich in pure protein and essential antioxidants
- Has an exceptionally high organic protein content
- Great for people with gluten or soy allergy
- Easily digestible, and assimilates quickly into the body
Cons
- No FDA certification
- Doesn’t have a larger weight variant
How to Choose the Right Hemp Powder
One of the primary features of hemp protein is its PDCAAS score. PDCAAS is the protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score that measures the true compatibility of any protein with the human body. Whole hemp seed have a score of 0.62, while hemp seed meal has a score of 0.58, and the score of hemp nuts is 0.61. This proves that it is one of the best protein sources. Besides, hemp seed powder has dietary fibers, vitamin B, and many types of minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and manganese. But, we need to look into some of the key factors before we invest in hemp proteins.
Benefits of hemp protein powder
Health benefits of hemp protein include the following:
- Hemp protein is rich in arginine, a type of essential amino acid that boosts cardiovascular health.
- It is rich in a type of Omega-3 fatty acid called ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). It can effectively reduce the risk of diseases caused by saturated fats, including several types of heart-related issues.
- Hemps seeds don’t have any trans fat and are extremely low in saturated fats.
- Hemp seeds are rich in poly-unsaturated fatty acid called GLA (gamma linolenic acid). It has an anti-inflammatory effect, which is beneficial in chronic but common inflammations, such as atopic dermatitis and acne.
Side effects of hemp protein
Be cautious about consuming hemp protein, because of the following:
- Hemp protein may contain a little more fiber than traditional whey or casein protein variants. So, some people can experience a bloated feeling, gas, and even diarrhea.
- Some people are allergic to hemp. If you feel any discomfort, then you should discontinue the consumption of hemp protein powder immediately.
- There is not enough evidence to mark hemp protein safe for pregnant or nursing women; so, it is better if you avoid using it in these conditions.
- Consumption of this protein is also not recommended for patients suffering from anemia and low immunity.
Conclusion
So, we can conclude that hemp protein is rich in dietary fibers, unsaturated fats, essential amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. So, it is a great choice to maintain your protein intake, especially for vegans. You can choose this as a replacement for other plant-based protein, too.