7 Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners In 2024
Sweeteners are often included in protein powders as a way of improving the flavor of protein powders without the additional calories. While some FDA approved sweeteners are used in reputable protein, not everyone wants these additives in their protein powders. The best protein powder without artificial sweeteners would allow you to find The ideal protein powder for your goals.
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate.
Starting our list of the best protein powders without artificial sweeteners is Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate. The protein is sourced directly from cows in the US and does not contain any artificial sweeteners or colorings.
Our certified nutritionists, professional athletes, and medical professionals have put 16 protein powders without artificial sweeteners through extensive testing and 7 of them made the cut. The products were analyzed on 6 of the most important criteria, and our expert team spent 4 weeks extensively testing them to evaluate them thoroughly. In addition to this, we’ve also reviewed hundreds of online customer reviews. We continually update our lineup, so share your feedback, experiences, and join the conversation!
Top 7 Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners Reviewed
- Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Best Overall
- Promix Whey Protein Powder – Runner Up
- PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder
- Levels Grass Fed 100% Protein Whey Protein Powder
- Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
- Isopure Unflavored Whey Isolate Protein Powder
- Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Concentrate
Product | Total | Macronutrient Breakdown | Flavor/ Taste | Nutritional Label Transparency | Fat Label Transparency | Mixability | Value for Money |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Transparent Labs | 59 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 |
Promix | 58 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
PlantFusion | 57 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 |
Levels | 55 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 |
Orgain | 53 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 |
Isopure | 53 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 10 |
Bulk | 51 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
1. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
- Best For (Diet): Cutting, (Weight loss), Bulking, Muscle recovery
- Suitable For Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Serving Size: 33-34.5g
- Price Per Serving: $2
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 93%
- Proteins: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
- Fat: 0g
- Added Sugar: 0g
- Company Founded: 2015
- Recommended By Athletes: Hafþór JúlÃus Björnsson, David De Las Morenas, Paul Sklar, Paulina Andrade
The Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is one of the first protein powders in the Protein Series, which features 100% grass-fed protein powders. The protein is sourced directly from cows in the US and does not contain any artificial sweeteners or colorings. It gives you around 28 grams of protein per serving.
Macronutrient Breakdown
This protein powder features a solid macro breakdown, which is high in protein, but very low in other macronutrients. You will get around 28 grams of protein per serving, with only 1-2 grams of carbs and 0 grams of fat. It is the ideal protein shake without artificial sweeteners.
Taste/Flavor
If you buy this protein powder, you have access to eight different flavors. These flavors are standard options like milk chocolate. However, the chocolate chip cookie and cinnamon French toast are two outstanding and unique flavors that you can choose from.
Nutrition Label Transparency
A small discrepancy can be found in the number of carbohydrates. Depending on the illustration, the brand indicates 1-gram of carbohydrates, while the other illustration shows 2-grams. However, this is only a minor nuance.
Fat Content Transparency
The protein powder does not contain any fat. The shake states that it would have around 0 grams of fat per serving.
Mixability
It is easy to mix this protein powder and by simply putting it inside your shaker, you should be able to thoroughly mix it with either water or milk. However, it does taste slightly better when mixed with milk.
Value for Money
While it might be a rather expensive protein, you will know that you are getting everything, which is displayed on the label. The transparency does make it one of the better sucralose free protein powder options on the market today. However, $2 per serving is rather expensive
The Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is one of the first protein powders in the Protein Series, which features 100% grass-fed protein powders.
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2. Promix Whey Protein Powder
- Best For (Diet): Cutting (Weight loss), Bulking, Muscle Recovery
- Suitable For Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate
- Serving Size: 30g
- Price Per Serving: $0.93
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 83%
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 1.5g
- Added Sugar: 0g
- Company Founded: 2011
- Recommended By Athletes: Odell Beckham Jr, DJ Sackmann, Declan McCarthy, Brian Pruett
The Promix Whey Protein Powder is one of the most unique protein powders on the market today and features a cold-pressed process, which is made from milk and grass-fed cows. It is one of the smoothest protein powders, which often leads to ease of mixing.
Macronutrient Breakdown
In terms of macros, this protein powder is slightly out of sorts and contains a lot more fat and carbohydrates than some of the others. However, you will still get around 25 grams of protein per serving and 1.5 grams of fat is not that bad.
Taste/Flavor
The protein powder is available in five flavors, which are chocolate, vanilla, chocolate peanut butter, peanut butter and unflavored. Unfortunately, this does not give you a large variety.
Nutrition Label Transparency
Most information on the label seems to be in order. It does not make unrealistic claims to levels of macronutrients
Fat Content Transparency
The fat content is accurate and you can rest assured that you don’t have too much fat in your protein powder that would spike calories.
Mixability
Due to the smooth nature and texture of this protein powder, it does mix rather easily. The upside of the unflavored version is that it can also be used for making smoothies or other types of shakes.
Value for Money
Compared to some of the other protein powders, the price seems to be in check and this means that you would likely get what you are paying for. It does offer you great value for your money when you have this protein powder.
The Promix Whey Protein Powder is one of the most unique protein powders on the market today and features a cold-pressed process, which is made from milk and grass-fed cows.
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3. PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder
- Best For (Diet): Plant based diets, Weight loss, Cutting, Bulking, Muscle Recovery
- Suitable For Vegans: Yes
- Protein Source: Pea protein isolate and other plant based proteins
- Serving Size: 30g
- Price Per Serving: $1.53
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 70%
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Added Sugar: None
- Company Founded: 2009
- Recommended by Athletes: Kimi V, Kyle Labadie, Saarah Wassel
PlantFusion is one of the top companies, which often promote their vegan protein powders. The PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder is one of the best complete protein powders, which targets all the branched-chain amino acids. Ideally, it is best for vegan usage.
Macronutrient Breakdown
This is one of the solid protein powders, which features a steady macros nutrient breakdown. The macros are what you would expect in various protein powders and would be great for those not looking to have extra calories in their shakes.
Taste/Flavor
The great thing about the protein powder is that it is available in 5 different flavors. These flavors include rich chocolate and things like red velvet cake, which brings a new dimension to the flavoring of the shake.
Nutrition Label Transparency
No discrepancies between what you see on the label and the actual content of the product have been found, which makes it one of the more reliable label options to focus on for your shake.
Fat Content Transparency
The protein powder features has around 3-grams of fat and this is congruent with what is stated on the label.
Mixability
Most vegan proteins are very easy to mix and would easily be mixed when you have the right shaker. You should not need to deal with clumps.
Value for Money
This vegan protein powder might be slightly more expensive per serving than some of the whey protein powders, but it would be worth it. If you don’t want any animal products in your protein powder, this is the one to go for.
The PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder is one of the best complete protein powders, which targets all the branched-chain amino acids. Ideally, it is best for vegan usage.
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4. Levels Grass Fed 100% Protein Whey Protein Powder
If you are looking for a great-tasting protein powder, the Levels Grass Fed 100% Protein Whey Protein Powder would be one of the best options. It is easy to mix and offers a rich and creamy taste when you are using the product.
- Best For (Diet): Bulking, maintaining muscle mass
- Suitable For Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Grass-fed Whey Concentrate
- Serving Size: 32g
- Price Per Serving: $1.00
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 74%
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 2.5g
- Added Sugar: None
- Company Founded: 2017
- Recommended by Athletes: Mike Gettier, Igal Ghitelman, Alyssa Reyes, Ryan Tchoungoua
Macronutrient Breakdown
The shake features a good macronutrient breakdown, with 2.5-grams of fat and 3-grams of carbohydrates. More than 70% of the calories is protein.
Taste/Flavor
One of the biggest benefits of this product is that you will have access to a variety of different flavors that you can choose from. You have up to 9 different flavors that would ensure you can effectively enjoy the flavor that you like. An unflavored version has also been included for those that want to use it for mixing with other shakes.
Nutrition Label Transparency
The label seems accurate and the label does not imply any outrageous levels of protein or other ingredients. You should be able to trust the ingredients.
Fat Content Transparency
The protein powder contains around 2.5-grams of fat, which is slightly higher than other competitive brands.
Mixability
There have been some reports of the protein powder not mixing well. However, it does tend to offer you great mixability and the variety of flavors would work if you are using it with other shakes as well.
Value for Money
In terms of the price per serving, it is cheaper than what most commercial protein powders sell for. The price should be a great indication that this is one of the top protein powders currently on the market today.
Levels Grass Fed 100% Protein Whey Protein Powder would be one of the best options. It is easy to mix and offers a rich and creamy taste when you are using the product.
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5. Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
It is one thing to get a vegan protein powder. However, an organic vegan protein powder would be even better and ensure that you have a solid basis for healthy living. The Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder is one of the best products on the market today and offers a great-tasting protein shake.
- Best For (Diet): Bulking, Plant based diets, muscle recovery
- Suitable For Vegans: Yes
- Protein Source: Pea protein, rice protein
- Serving Size: 46g
- Price Per Serving: $1.70
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 56%
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 4g
- Added Sugar: None
- Company Founded: 2009
- Recommended by Athletes: Langston Galloway, Blake Griffin, Byron Jones
Macronutrient Breakdown
One of the biggest downsides of this shake would be the macronutrient breakdown. Unfortunately, it only has around 56% of protein per serving. The high carbohydrate content of 15 grams might seem a bit overly excessive.
Taste/Flavor
We could find this protein shake available in three distinct flavors. However, they are all very similar. One of the best flavors is Peppermint Hot Cocoa, which can also serve as a hot beverage when you are feeling cold.
Nutrition Label Transparency
The nutritional label is accurate and we could not find any discrepancies between the label and the nutritional content.
Fat Content Transparency
It does have a higher fat percentage than some of the competing protein powder at 4-grams of fat per serving.
Mixability
Plant-based protein powders tend to mix very easily and this is also the case with this protein powder. It has a smooth and soft texture, which would make it one of the top options when it comes to mixing the product.
Value for Money
If we look at the price per serving, this one tends to be a bit expensive. However, you will get some decent value for your money.
If you are one of those athletes who like to use only organic protein powders, Orgain organic protein is for you. The powder is purely plant-based, prepared from peas, rice, chia seed along with some other plants. And yes, it's vegan-friendly.
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6. Isopure Unflavored Whey Isolate Protein Powder
If you love mixing different products with your protein powder, the Isopure Unflavored Whey Isolate Protein Powder would be one of the best options on the market today. It offers you a good amount of protein powder but is not sourced from grass-fed cows.
- Best For(Diet): Cutting, weight loss, Maintaining muscle
- Suitable For Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
- Serving Size: 29g
- Price Per Serving: $1.50
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 100%
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Added Sugar: None
- Company Founded: 1984
- Recommended by Athletes: Betina Gozo Shimonek, Kailey Lynn, Ashley Joi
Macronutrient Breakdown
This protein powder has some of the tightest macronutrient classifications on the market today. It contains 25 grams of protein, and the label states that it does not contain any fat or carbohydrates.
Taste/Flavor
Unfortunately, this shake remains unflavored and this means that it would taste like nothing. You will need to add your flavoring or a different shake, which has some other form of flavoring to spice up the product.
Nutrition Label Transparency
The nutritional label is accurate and we could not find any discrepancies suggesting that there are any issues.
Fat Content Transparency
It does not contain any fat according to the label. The fat content is completely transparent.
Mixability
This is by far one of the easiest proteins to mix and since you don’t use a lot, it would work well in around 8 ounces of water. The shake can easily be mixed with other shakes to give you something worth drinking.
Value for Money
This is also one of the cheapest protein powders per serving on the market today and you will get great value for your money. It would work wonders for those looking to lose weight by cutting down on the extra calories.
Isopure Unflavored Whey Isolate Protein Powder would be one of the best options on the market today. It offers you a good amount of protein powder but is not sourced from grass-fed cows.
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7. Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Concentrate
If you are looking for a quick protein powder that you can get a few servings from and that would ensure that you get some value for your money, the Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Concentrate is often a great option. It comes in a quick-use package, which should give you great value for your money.
- Best For (Diet): Cutting, weight loss, calorie control
- Suitable For Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey Protein Concentrate
- Serving Size: 30g
- Price Per Serving: $1.00
- Protein Percentage Of Calories: 77%
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 2.6g
- Added Sugar: None
- Company Founded: 2012
- Recommended by Athletes: Andrew Lutomski, Bridget Freeman, Dylan Hellriegel, Ella Martyn
Macronutrient Breakdown
It is always great to have a good protein powder, which gives you a decent protein breakdown. This protein powder does not contain a lot of fat or carbohydrates, which would make it another good option for cutting calories.
Taste/Flavor
Once again, we have a flavorless protein powder, which does not have any real flavoring. This could be great for mixing it with other protein powders, but it will taste like nothing by itself
Nutrition Label Transparency
The nutritional label seems in line with many of the other products and this does give us confidence that you can believe the label.
Fat Content Transparency
The shake might be a bit higher in fat at 2.6-grams per serving, but we didn't find any discrepancies in the label.
Mixability
Since this is one of the protein powders, which is available in a smaller container, it is also one of the easiest for you to mix. You will not need to deal with any clumps. However, some have been reported by users.
Value for Money
If you are looking for an affordable protein sachet you can use on the go, this is the ideal option for traveling or drinking a protein shake on the go.
Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Concentrate is often a great option. It comes in a quick-use package, which should give you great value for your money.
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What Are Artificial Sweeteners?
In most products that are sweet, you will have a few sweeteners or natural sugars that are often added to the products. These would enhance the flavor, but they also come with additional calories. Artificial sweeteners are low to zero-calorie additives that would improve the overall taste of a product. They are often used by companies as sugar substitutes.
Benefits Of Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners
✅ Personal Preference
Some people might not prefer the additives found in many protein powders. If you don't like the taste of certain sweeteners in your protein powders, it would be a major benefit to have one without artificial sweeteners.
✅ Possible Sugar Cravings
It has been suggested that artificial sweeteners could potentially increase your sweet tooth. Although there is no conclusive evidence supporting this claim, those who are cautious could settle for a protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
How to Find the Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners?
1. Macronutrients
One of the first things that you need to look for is the macronutrient content. You ideally want a shake that has good macros, which include at least 70% of protein per serving in relation to total caloric content. The lower you keep the carbohydrates and fats, the lower it would also keep the overall calories.
Tips From the Champ
Since you will be drinking the protein powder frequently, you should find something you enjoy. It is great to look for the best possible flavors that you could find and how these would taste. However, some might prefer an unflavored protein powder.
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
2. Mixability
Some protein powders are hard to mix and this is because they often clump when you are mixing them. You should consider reading some of the reviews to find out how easy it would be to mix the protein powder.
3. Sweeteners
If you are looking to enhance the flavor of your shake, adding sweeteners would often be one of the best ways to do this. However, some individuals would prefer a shake that does not contain any artificial additives, which is why you need to check the label and ingredients.
4. Label Transparency
Label transparency is important and while most reputable brands will always be transparent. When buying a protein powder without artificial sweeteners, it is best to buy from a reputable company and reputable source.
FAQs
Do All Protein Powders Have Artificial Sweeteners?
No, you can find various protein powders, which do not have any artificial sweeteners in the product and would give you a natural flavor that you could potentially enjoy.
Are Artificial Sweeteners In Protein Powders Bad?
There is no evidence suggesting that artificial sweeteners are bad or harmful to your health. However, some individuals might prefer protein powders without artificial sweeteners to help them achieve their own goals. Others might just not like the taste.
Why Do So Many Protein Powders Use Sucralose?
Sucralose and acesulfame potassium are two of the most common ingredients you find in protein powders and these often help to enhance the flavor. It is one of the cheapest forms of sweetening a product and many companies use this as an alternative to sugar when trying to cut it out.
Wrap-Up
Buying the best protein with no artificial sweeteners would be a great investment if you don’t like the taste or you simply want something different. The Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is one of the best options on the market today and offers everything an athlete would need. We would love to see some of your comments on which protein powder without artificial sweeteners or stevia you prefer.
Also Read:
- Best Tasting Protein Powder With Water
- Best Myprotein Flavour
- Best Chocolate Vegan Protein Powder
- Best Protein Powder For Teens
- Collagen Protein vs Whey Protein
- Best Protein Powder For Runners
- Meal Replacement vs Protein Shake
- Protein Shake With Milk Or Water
- Soy Protein vs Whey
References:
- Low-Calorie Sweeteners // School of Public Health: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks/artificial-sweeteners
- Replacing Sugar with Artificial Sweeteners // University of South California: https://sc.edu/about/offices_and_divisions/research/news_and_pubs/caravel/archive/2012/2012-caravel-artificial-sweeteners.php
- Choose a Diet Low in Fat, Saturated Fat, and Cholesterol // Dietary Guidelines for Americans Introduction: https://www.uc.edu/cdc/urban_database/food_resources/lowfat.htm
- Could artificial sweeteners be bad for your brain? // Harvard Medical School: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/could-artificial-sweeteners-be-bad-for-your-brain-2017060711849.html
- What Is Acesulfame Potassium? // Nourish by WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-is-acesulfame-potassium.html
Why Trust Us?
With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.
All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.
The product testing process is described in more detail here
Author: Oleksandr Maksymenko
Certified Sports Nutritionist,
MSc Sports Dietetics
Specializing in: Weight management, Fitness / Sports nutrition
Oleksandr is a professional fitness nutritionist certified by the Fitness Professional Association (FPA). He follows the principles of evidence-based dietetics and fosters a healthy relationship with food in his clients, ensuring there are no strict prohibitions on their favorite foods or frequent lapses. His primary goal is not only to achieve results for you but also to sustain them over the long term, all while enjoying tasty and delicious food.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiries considering product reviews, you can reach out to us via email – [email protected]