Whey isolate or plant protein: how do you choose?

Choosing between whey and plant protein is mostly a question of what you want in the tub. Instead of guessing, here is what our labels say, side by side.

What each one is made from

Our whey products, Pure3 and Advanced, are built on whey protein isolate, and each label states that it contains milk.

PlantFuel Protein Chocolate and PlantFuel Protein Vanilla use a blend of fava bean protein isolate and fermented nutritional yeast protein. Their ingredient lists do not include whey or milk protein.

Side by side

• PlantFuel Protein Chocolate, $50: 21 g protein, 110 calories, two scoops (34.7 g), 24 servings.
• PlantFuel Protein Vanilla, $50: 20 g protein, 110 calories, two scoops (35 g), 24 servings.
• Advanced Whey (Chocolate or Vanilla), $85: 22 g protein, 120 calories, two scoops, 24 servings.
• Pure3 Whey Isolate (Chocolate or Vanilla), $90: 18 g (chocolate) or 19 g (vanilla) protein, 90 calories, one scoop, about 28 servings.

At list price, that is about $2.08 per serving for PlantFuel ($50 across 24), $3.54 for Advanced ($85 across 24) and $3.21 for Pure3 ($90 across 28). Serving sizes differ, so look at the grams of protein as well as the price.

Every one of these labels carries the same type of statement: the protein supports muscle growth and repair after exercise.* The PlantFuel labels do not promise more than that, and neither do the whey labels.

How to choose

Start with what you need to avoid. If you have a milk allergy, whey is not an option. Check the full PlantFuel label and its allergen information yourself before you decide, since our summary here covers the ingredient list only.

Then look at the serving. Advanced gives you 22 g per two scoops, PlantFuel 20 to 21 g, and Pure3 18 to 19 g from a single scoop. If one scoop is easier for your routine, Pure3 is the single-scoop option. If budget is the priority, PlantFuel has the lowest price per serving of the four.

Also glance at sodium, since it varies: the labels list 190 mg per serving for PlantFuel Chocolate, 180 mg for PlantFuel Vanilla, 180 mg for Advanced Chocolate, 115 mg for Advanced Vanilla and 50 mg for Pure3 Chocolate.

The directions are similar across the line: mix the listed scoops with 6-8 fl oz of water or a favorite beverage daily. Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, under 18 or have a medical condition.

Quick questions

Is plant protein as good as whey?

We cannot give you a blanket answer, and our labels do not claim one is better. Both are labeled to support muscle growth and repair after exercise.* Compare the grams per serving, the ingredients and the price.

Can I try both?

Yes, they are separate products. The Protein & Hydration Workout Pair pairs PlantFuel Protein Chocolate with Hydravive (Lemonade) for $75, compared with $90 bought separately.

Where do I start if I am not sure?

Take the 60-second quiz or browse our bundles.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.