Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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To develop muscle and strength, you need protein. A convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get it is with a protein powder. But not all protein powders are equal. With the intense competition in the supplement market, manufacturers are going all out to make their protein powder taste better, mix better and preserve better. But unfortunately, they add all sorts of additives, flavors, and contaminants that are not good for your body. Your body deserves better than that. This article reveals the seven best pure, natural unflavored protein powders, separated by category so you get the best plain protein powder to meet your needs.
7 Best Unflavored protein powders
- Overall Best: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey
- Organic Pick: Orgain Organic Protein
- Vegan Pick: Naked Pea Protein
- Whey Protein Isolate Pick: BulkSupplements Whey Protein Isolate
- Casein Protein Pick: MyProtein Slow-Release Casein
- Brown Rice Protein Pick: Naked Rice
- Keto Pick: Isopure Zero Carb
SFS Pick
Transparent Labs
SFS Organic Pick
Orgain
SFS Vegan Pick
Naked
1. Overall Best Unflavored Protein Powder: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey delivers 28 grams of American dairy protein with every serving. Transparent Labs has an excellent reputation for producing top-quality protein supplements, with all its products manufactured in FDA GMP-compliant facilities.
This product has an excellent macronutrient profile, low in sugars, fats, and carbs. It also mixes very well, producing a smooth, clump-free shake mixture.
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey has a protein-by-weight ratio of 82%, which is very high. As a result, you get a lot of pure protein for your money, rather than additives and fillers that may be present in lesser products. This is a very good flavorless protein powder for weight gain. However, it is comparatively expensive, costing about $2 per daily serving.
Pros
- 28 grams of protein per day
- Mixes smoothly
- 82% protein by weight
Cons
- Expensive
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle. It contains one of the industry’s highest protein-by-weight ratios...
2. Best Organic Unflavored Protein Powder: Orgain Organic Protein
Organic protein powders have become increasingly popular lately. By combining three plant-based proteins, Orgain Organic Protein Powder ranks as our best flavorless protein powder that is organically sourced. Orgain's protein is made up of the following:
- Brown Rice
- Organic pea
- Chia
Brown rice is an incomplete protein, lacking in some essential amino acids, particularly lysine. Nevertheless, it represents an excellent source of fiber, complex carbohydrates, and several essential minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, and manganese. The B vitamins thiamine, niacin, and vitamin B6 are also present.
Peas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. Organic pea protein includes branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), crucial for muscle growth, repair, and general health. Pea protein has all nine essential amino acids. However, while mixing pea protein with other plant protein sources can help produce a balanced amino acid profile, pea protein is relatively low in the amino acid methionine.
Chia is a tiny seed from the Salvia hispanica plant that is used to make vegan protein powder. Chia seeds are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Combining these three protein sources represents a complete source with many health benefits.
You get a total of 21 grams of vegan protein with this powder. You also get 15 grams of carbs (comparatively high) and 1 gram of sugar.
Pros
- Vegan protein source
- Combines organic pea, brown rice, and chia protein
- 21 grams of sugar per serving
Cons
- Quite high in carbs
This organic plant-based protein powder serves up 21g of vegan protein and only 150 calories in every serving. Fuel your body with clean, organic nutrition with a complete amino acid profile...
3. Best Vegan Unflavored Protein Powder: Naked Pea Protein
Yellow split peas are the sole protein source for Naked Pea Protein. It provides 27 grams per serving for a calorie cost of just 120 calories. Pea protein is not officially a complete protein because it is slightly down on methionine+cysteine.
However, it still represents an excellent protein source, containing the other eight essential amino acids in higher than minimum levels to be considered complete. In addition, it's a good source of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), crucial for muscle building and recovery, as minerals like iron.
Yellow split peas are the only ingredient in this product. It is free of additives, as well as being soy and gluten-free. With just two grams of carbs and the same sugar count, this is a good choice for people trying to lose weight.
Naked Pea Protein is independently third-party tested for purity and potency. A 76-serving five-pound container costs $57.99. That works out to 76 cents per serving.
Pros
- Pea protein
- 3rd-party tested
- Low in carbs and sugar
Cons
- It can be a little clumpy
Naked Pea has only one ingredient: Pea protein extracted from yellow split peas grown on US and Canadian farms. Pea protein is easily absorbed by the body, making it an excellent...
4. Best Unflavored Whey Protein Isolate: BulkSupplements Whey Protein Isolate
BulkSupplements Whey Protein Isolate is among the purest whey proteins on the market. So if you are concerned about only putting the best in your body, this protein powder is for you. It provides you with 26 grams of grass-fed whey isolate per serving. With just one gram of total fat and zero carbs, this a great supplement if you're looking to create a lean, muscular physique.
Bulk Supplements Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate 90% features simple packaging and bulk amounts, allowing Bulk Supplements to provide this product at a competitive price. In addition, Bulk Supplements offer supplements in quantities you will not get from other suppliers, ranging from grams to metric tons. Bulk Supplements has developed a reputation for producing excellent quality products with no-frills packaging and at a highly competitive price.
Pros
- 26 grams of protein per serving
- Well priced
- 90% pure protein
Cons
- No added ingredients
Whey Protein Isolate 90% is a high-quality protein source that can help you recover from your workouts, build lean muscle, and control your appetite. It is standardized to at least 90% protein...
5. Best Unflavored Casein Protein Powder: MyProtein Slow-Release Casein
MyProtein Slow-Release Casein Protein Powder delivers amino acids over an extended period to enhance muscle growth and recovery. That's because the micellar casein used in this product has a slow digestion and absorption rate.
Unlike fast-digesting protein sources like whey protein, micellar casein produces a gel-like structure in the stomach. This facilitates a slow release of amino acids over a long period. The delayed release makes it the perfect option for overnight use or extended fasting times because it can assist in offering a maintained protein supply to muscles.
You get 23 grams of casein protein in every MyProtein Slow-Release Casein Protein Powder serving. Micellar casein is the only ingredient in this product, so you have no worries about additives or flavorings. A 33-serving container costs $1.81 per serving. That puts it at the expensive end of the market.
Pros
- Slow release protein
- Micellar Casein
- Ideal as a nighttime protein source
Cons
- Quite expensive
Packed with 23g of slow-releasing protein, helping you to grow, maintain muscle, and recover. Accredited by the Cologne List®, our Slow-Release Casein has been through rigorous quality...
6. Best Unflavored Brown Rice Protein Powder: Naked Rice
Naked Rice from Naked Nutrition contains nothing but organic sprouted brown rice protein. A hexane-free extraction process produces a pure vegan plant-based protein powder from the source. The hexane-free extraction procedure attempts to generate protein powders free from residual solvents and potential impurities using water-based extraction techniques instead of hexane.
This method is regarded as safer for human consumption and more environmentally friendly. In addition, it makes it possible to create high-grade protein powders that maintain the original plant-based protein source's nutritional qualities.
Every serving of Naked Rice provides 25 grams of protein, 120 calories, 4 grams of carbs, and zero sugar. This additive, gluten, and soy-free powder mixes well but may leave some gritty residue at the bottom of the cup. Every batch is 3rd party tested to ensure that only the highest quality product hits the shelves.
Pros
- Pure brown rice
- Hexane-free extraction process
- 3rd party tested
Cons
- Not a complete source of protein
Naked Rice has only one ingredient: Organic sprouted brown rice protein. Naked Rice is made using a hexane-free extraction process to create a protein with a superior amino acid profile...
7. Best Keto Unflavored Protein Powder: Isopure Zero Carb
Isopure Zero Carb is a 100% pure whey isolate powder. The 25 grams of whey protein concentrate per serving includes 5.67 grams of branch-chain amino acids. You also get 2.57 grams of l-glutamine.
An advanced microfiltration process filters out the milk fats and carbohydrates, ensuring the finished product is entirely carb free. That makes it the ideal keto-friendly protein powder.
Isopue Zero Carb has fine protein powder particles, making it ideal for baking, cooking, and adding to desserts. It mixes very well to produce a creamy shake mixture. You can even add it to your bulletproof coffee without worrying about clumping.
Pros
- 25 grams of protein
- 2.57 grams of l-glutamine
- Advanced microfiltration process
- Carb-free, making it perfect for ket
Cons
- Contains soy
Isopure Unflavored WPI powder contains 25 grams per serving of 100% Whey Protein Isolate, stripped of fat, carbs, fillers, sugars and lactose. Easy to add to any food and beverage (hot or cold)...
Why choose an unflavored protein powder?
Opting for an unflavored protein powder will give you a shake that doesn't taste as good. But, for many people, that negative is far outweighed by the benefits of unflavored protein powder options. Here's an overview of the main reasons that people choose to go for unflavored protein powders.
1. Fewer filler ingredients
Unflavored protein powders generally have fewer artificial colors or sweeteners. To get an appreciation for what a big deal that is, consider just one of the popular artificial colors used in the protein powder market; Yellow #5. This ingredient has been shown to potentially cause cancer and other side effects.¹ You'll find Yellow #5 in banana flavored, lemon, and birthday cake protein powders.
2. Versatility
When you purchase an unflavored protein powder, you actually have more freedom to flavor your shake. You can do so by adding fruit or other healthy ingredients like yogurt.
But when the shake is already flavored, you'll end up with a strange blend of flavors that will probably not appeal to your taste buds. In addition, you can add unflavored protein powder to all sorts of recipes without ruining the end taste.
3. Allergies
Flavored protein powders may contain additives, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and potential allergens, including dairy, soy, gluten, or nuts.
In addition, some people may develop allergies or sensitivities to certain chemicals used to flavor the powder. You can avoid potential allergens and have more control over the ingredients you put into your body by choosing unflavored protein powders.
What to look for when buying an unflavored protein powder:
Knowing what to look for is the key to getting an unflavored protein powder to help you achieve your goals while promoting your overall well-being. Here are seven key considerations:
1. Protein Type
Different protein types have distinct qualities and advantages. Here's an overview of the main types of protein used in powders:
- Whey Protein: Made from milk, whey protein has a high biological value and an excellent amino acid composition, making it one of the most widely used protein sources. It is quickly absorbed and digested, which makes it the perfect option for post-workout recovery. Unless someone has a severe lactose sensitivity or allergy to dairy, most people tolerate whey protein powders well.
- Casein Protein: Casein protein, like whey protein, comes from milk. Casein, though, is a slower-digesting protein that offers a steady supply of amino acids. That makes it great as a longer-lasting source of protein, especially if taken before bed or during fasting times.
- Plant-Based Protein: Plant-based protein powders are becoming increasingly popular, especially with vegetarians, vegans, and people allergic to dairy. Pea protein powder, soy protein powder, hemp protein powder, and rice protein powder are familiar plant-based protein sources. Each source of plant-based protein has a different amino acid composition and degree of digestion. Combined, plant-based proteins may offer a complete amino acid profile, ensuring you get all the necessary amino acids.
- Other Protein Types: Other protein kinds, such as egg white protein, cow protein, and collagen protein, are marketed in addition to whey, casein, and plant-based proteins. These protein powders could provide certain advantages or satisfy people's dietary needs or preferences. For instance, collagen protein is well known for helping to maintain healthy skin, hair, and joints.
2. Macronutrient Content
Unflavored protein powders typically contain more protein and fewer carbohydrates than their flavored counterparts. That's a good thing for those who want to lose body fat. However, if you're after a post-workout protein powder, you'll want a decent amount of carbs to replace the glycogen you've expended during your workout.
Here's an overview of the typical macronutrient makeup of unflavored protein:
Protein: Naturally, protein is the primary macronutrient in protein powder. Choose a protein powder with a protein composition aligned with your goals, such as muscle growth, post-workout recovery, or general protein replenishment.
Most protein powders have a serving size of 15 to 30 grams of protein.
Carbohydrates: The carb count in unflavored protein powders varies depending on the protein source and any added additives. While some protein powders have a low carbohydrate content, others could incorporate sweeteners or fillers that raise the carbohydrate content.
Choose protein powders with reduced carbohydrate content if you're on a low-carb or ketogenic diet or want to reduce your carbohydrate intake.
Fats: Most protein powders have a very low-fat content, especially if they are isolates rather than concentrates. Check the protein powder's fat level to ensure it fits your goals if you watch your fat intake or adhere to a particular diet.
3. Other ingredients
Here are some key extra ingredients that will boost the effectiveness of your unflavored protein powder:
Glutamine: Glutamine is a conditionally necessary amino acid that is essential for muscle growth and recovery. Glutamine supplements may promote immunological function, lessen muscle pain, and support muscle growth.
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Leucine, isoleucine, and valine are necessary amino acids recognized to promote muscle protein synthesis and minimize muscle protein degradation. Some unflavored protein powders may add BCAAs for a balanced amino acid profile. Some people prefer to add their own BCAA supplements for the their preferred ratio.
Creatine: Creatine is a naturally occurring substance mainly found in muscle cells throughout the body. It is essential for producing energy during intense exercise. Some unflavored protein powders add it because it helps with muscle strength and athletic performance. You also may want to consider buying a separate creatine supplement to get the most out of this ingredient.
Digestive Enzymes: Some powders include additional digestive enzymes like lipases, amylases, or proteases. These enzymes support the digestion and breakdown of several food types, including proteins, carbs, and lipids. If you have certain dietary sensitivities, a digestive enzyme supplement may be beneficial to have.
4. Mixability
The best tasteless protein powder will blend smoothly and efficiently with liquids to produce a smoothie that is convenient to blend and more pleasant to drink. Powders with poor mixability will likely produce clumps, a gritty texture, or a chalky feel.
Another aspect to consider is whether the protein powder causes any silt or residue in the cup. Choose a pure protein powder that mixes up with little to no residue.
Choosing a protein powder that mixes well with simply a shaker bottle may be more convenient if you're looking for something you can quickly mix on the move.
How easily a protein powder dissolves in a liquid is called solubility. Good solubility allows protein powders to dissolve completely without leaving clumps or undissolved particles behind.
5. Versatility
Fine, readily dissolved protein powders are more versatile since they can be used in various recipes without changing the dish's overall texture. Unflavored powders can be an excellent complement to your baking and cooking projects.
In addition, they can be added to recipes to increase the protein content of foods like pancakes, muffins, energy bars, cookies, and more.
If you intend to use the protein powder in baked items that call for baking or cooking at higher temperatures, pay attention to the protein powder's heat stability.
Some protein powders might denature or lose their nutritious value when exposed to intense heat. Select a protein powder designated as being heat-stable or appropriate for baking.
6. Price
Your value-for-money determination should consider the price per serving, the protein content, extra ingredients, and mixability. You should expect to pay between $1-$2.00 per serving.
7. Reviews
You need to check online reviews to get the best protein powder with no taste. Reviews from verified purchasers can help determine the unflavored protein powder's quality and purity.
Mixability and texture are frequently mentioned in reviews. This can help determine whether the unflavored powder dissolves smoothly in liquids without clumping or having a gritty texture. Pay attention to reviews that mention how well the protein powder mixes and the mechanism used (shaking bottle, blender, etc.).
User evaluations can shed light on the unflavored protein powder's digestive tolerance. Some people might share their experiences with bloating, gas, or other digestive problems.
If you have a sensitive stomach or certain dietary restrictions, look for reviews discussing how the powder affects the stomach.
Take into account the following when checking user reviews:
- To ensure credibility, look for reviews from verified customers.
- Read several reviews to gain a variety of viewpoints and experiences.
- Take into account both favorable and unfavorable comments to get a well-rounded viewpoint.
- Keep an eye out for reviews that speak to certain factors that are significant to you, such as quality, mixability, or digestive tolerance.
- Recognize that as preferences differ from person to person, not all reviews will likely match your own.
Unflavored Protein Powder FAQs
What is the best-unflavored protein powder?
Based on our extensive analysis, the best protein powder unflavored on the current market is Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey. It provides a pure source of protein, with 28 grams of 100% grass-fed American cattle in every serving. Its protein-to-weight ratio of 82% is one of the highest in the industry. It also contains just 3 grams of carbs, one gram of sugar, and zero saturated fat.
Is unflavored protein powder better?
Your dietary requirements, personal tastes, and specific goals will determine whether or not unflavoured protein powder is better. It has many uses since unflavored protein powder has no additional flavors or sweeteners. When added, it doesn't dramatically affect the taste of a wide range of meals and beverages.
You can add your own ingredients to unflavored protein powder to change the flavor profile and sweetness level. This may be advantageous if you prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners or have particular dietary choices or limits.
Flavored protein powders can come with extra calories from flavorings or sweeteners. If weight control is a problem, choosing unflavored protein powder may allow you to consume fewer calories.
What is good with unflavored protein powder?
Here are some suggestions for what you may mix or combine with plain protein powder to create tasty and healthy food options:
- Smoothies: To make a protein-rich smoothie, combine unflavored protein powder with fruit and liquid (such as yogurt, almond milk, or coconut water). Add spinach, cherries, bananas, peanut butter, or chocolate powder for added flavor. The best flavorless protein powder for smoothies will have fine particles to mix well and produce a creamy beverage,
- Oatmeal: Add unflavored protein powder to cooked oatmeal to increase protein intake. Toppings like nuts, fruit, honey, or cinnamon can be added for flavor.
- Waffles or pancakes: Add unflavored protein powder to the batter for a protein-rich breakfast alternative. Mashable bananas, cinnamon, or vanilla extract are additional flavorings you can use.
- Energy Balls or Bars: To make your own protein balls or bars, combine oats, dates, almonds, and nut butter with unflavored protein powder. Add flavors to the mix, such as coconut, chocolate chips, or dried fruits.
- Yogurt: Greek yogurt or plain yogurt can boost protein by mixing in unflavoured protein powder. Toppings like granola, fresh fruit, honey, or nuts can be added for more flavor and texture.
- Soups and Sauces: Unflavored protein powder can be used as a thickening agent to raise the protein content of soups and sauces. While maintaining the flavor of your savory foods, it dissolves quickly and can assist in improving their nutritional profile.
- Protein Puddings and Desserts: To make protein-rich puddings or desserts, combine unflavoured protein powder with milk or plant-based substitutes. Add natural flavors or sweets to taste. To satisfy your preferences, you can experiment with various components and flavors.
What are the side effects of unflavored protein powder?
Unflavored protein typically doesn't have any significant negative consequences on its own. It is a concentrated protein derived from whey, casein, soy, or plant-based proteins. Certain types of protein, such as whey or soy, may cause allergies or intolerance in some individuals.
If you are aware of any allergies or sensitivities to particular proteins, choosing a protein powder that is adequate for your nutritional requirements is crucial.
Some people may experience gas, bloating, or upset stomach after using protein powder. The type of protein consumed, a person's digestive sensitivity, or too much protein could all be contributing factors.
To assess your tolerance, start with a lesser serving amount and progressively increase it. Sometimes, using protein powder with meals or getting enough fluids will help lessen stomach issues.
Does unflavored protein powder taste like anything?
The taste of unflavored protein powder is often very weak, bland, or neutral. Since there are no additional flavorings or sweeteners, the flavor is typically rather faint. Although unflavored protein powder typically has a mild flavor, it can also have a slightly gritty or powdery texture when combined with water or other liquids.
Summary
Opting for an unflavored protein powder is always wise when concerned about your overall health. After all, what's the point of adding muscle and getting lean when you're poisoning your body with artificial flavors and other contaminants? Transparent Lab's 100% Grass-Fed Whey is the best no-flavor protein powder overall. It provides 28 grams of whey isolate, zero sugar and fats, and just a single gram of carbs.
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle. It contains one of the industry’s highest protein-by-weight ratios...
Interested in more protein powder options? Check out our articles on the Best Protein Powders and Best Casein Protein Powders.
References
- McCann, Donna, et al. "Food Additives and Hyperactive Behaviour in 3-Year-Old and 8/9-Year-Old Children in the Community: A Randomised, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial." The Lancet, vol. 370, no. 9598, Nov. 2007, pp. 1560–1567
Steve Theunissen
Author