7 Best Sugar Free Protein Powders in 2024

The best sugar free protein powder depends on several important factors including the macronutrient breakdown, label transparency, mixability, and value for money.

Protein powder is one of the most widely-used health and fitness supplements around the world. It provides a convenient source of on-the-go protein that can be tailored to your taste and mixed with a wide range of foods and liquids.

Protein powders without sugar provide an excellent option for those looking to improve their health markers, lose weight, manage their diabetes, or just simply prefer the taste. 

Whilst they all contain no sugar, different protein powder brands opt for different nutritional compositions, changing their quality and use. I’ve broken down the 7 best sugar free protein powders according to the most important factors and ranked them down below. 

Our collective of certified nutritionists and professional athletes has meticulously tested 28 sugar free protein powders to bring you 7 of the best ones. The protein powders were analyzed against 5 key factors, with our team spending 6 weeks testing them. Along with the detailed testing process, they have also gone through hundreds of online user reviews. We are always updating our list, so leave a comment, share your experiences, and let’s chat! 

Top 7 Best Sugar Free Protein Powders Reviewed

1. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Best Overall
2. Promix Whey Protein Powder 100% All Natural – Runner Up
3. PlantFusion Complete Vegan Plant-based Protein Powder
4. Orgain Organic Plant-based Vegan Protein Powder
5. Isopure Whey Isolate Protein Powder
6. Garden of Life Sport Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate
7. Quest Nutrition Protein Powder

I’ve reviewed the top 7 best no sugar protein powders and ranked them below according to the macronutrient breakdown, nutrition label transparency, mixability, and value for money. 

Product	Total	Macronutrient Breakdown	Taste/ Flavor	Nutrition Label Transparency	Mixability	Value for Money
Transparent Labs Whey	49	10	9.5	10	9.5	10
Promix Whey	48.5	9.5	9.5	10	10	9.5
Plantfusion Complete Vegan Plant-based	48	9.5	9.5	10	9	10
Orgain Organic Plant-based Vegan	47	9	9	10	9	10
Isopure Whey Isolate	46	9.5	8	10	9	9.5
Garden of Life Sport Grass Fed Whey	46	9	8.5	10	9	9.5
Quest Nutrition	45	9	9.5	9	9	9.5

1. Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate 100% Grass Fed – Top Pick

At Transparent Labs, they aim to create products backed by science to improve human health and performance. The company uses natural ingredients at clinically-effective doses, using scientific studies to back them up.

Their product range includes protein powders, pre-workouts, creatine, and vitamin supplements. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Muscle building, Weight loss, Keto
• Suitable For Vegans: No
• Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
• Serving Size: 32.96-34.5 grams (depending on flavor)
• Price Per Serving: $2.00
• Protein % of Calories: 93%
• Proteins: 28 grams 
• Carbohydrates: <1-3 grams (depending on flavor)
• Fats: 0 grams
• Sugars: <1-1 gram (depending on flavor)
• Company Founded: 2015
• Recommended by Athletes: Hathor Bjornsson, Paul Skylar

The 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate from Transparent labs is one of the best protein sources you’ll find, containing no sweeteners, colorings, or preservatives. It features one of the highest % protein contents out of overall calories at 93% making it my top pick whey protein with no sugar.

Each 32.96-34.5 gram serving includes 28 grams of high-quality whey isolate, giving it the highest protein amount out of my top 7 choices. Transparent labs have sourced it from 100% grass-fed American cows that are hormone free. It is low in both fats and carbohydrates, containing 0 grams of fat and 1-2 grams of carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto dieters, diabetics, and those looking to improve their health markers.

The Transparent Labs sugar-free protein comes in 7 exciting flavor choices and comes in a 2 lb option or as a bundle with other product lines. 

2. Promix Whey Protein Powder 100% All Natural - Runner Up

The founder of Promix decided to create the company so he could manufacture products that matched his standards for ingredient quality, scientific underpinning, and safety. They aim to manufacture natural supplements that contain the purest ingredients.

The Promix company produces and sells protein, pre-workouts, snacks, and innovative shakers. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Keto, weight loss, muscle gain 
• Suitable For Vegans: No
• Protein Source: Whey Concentrate protein
• Serving Size: 30-48 grams (depending on flavor)
• Price Per Serving: $2.24
• Protein % of Calories: 83%
• Proteins: 25 grams 
• Carbohydrates: 3 grams
• Fats: 1.5 grams 
• Sugars: 1 gram
• Company Founded: 2011
• Recommended by Athletes: Odell Beckham Jr, Dj Sackmann

Coming in the rubber-up spot is the Promix 100% all-natural whey protein powder. It contains the joint second highest protein amount out of my top 7 choices and contains natural glutathione and immunoglobulins, to improve protein absorption.

The 25 grams of protein in each 30-48 gram scoop is cold-processed and acid-free bioactive whey that comes from 100% natural grass-fed cows. It provides 83% of the overall calories for each serving. Alongside the glutathione and immunoglobulins, sunflower lecithin has been included for improved blending. Similar to my top pick, it contains low amounts of both fats and carbohydrates at 1.5 and 3 grams, respectively. 

The Promix powder is another excellent protein powder example that's free of gluten, soy, GMOs, hormones, artificial sweeteners, and flavorings. Alongside the high-quality protein, it comes with 5.9 grams of BCAAs and a higher concentration of omega-3s and CLAs.

It comes in 4 flavor choices with 1 unflavored option that can be purchased as a 2.5 and 5 lb tub. 

3. PlantFusion Complete Vegan Plant-based Protein Powder

PlantFusion was founded with three goals in mind - to deliver amazing tasting products, hand-select the best ingredients, and work with transparency at each production step. The brand believes everyone should be able to enjoy better health with good tasting products.

They produce a wide range of plant-based products including protein powders, vitamins, and apparel. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Vegan, Keto
• Suitable For Vegans: Yes
• Protein Source: Pea Protein 
• Serving Size: 28-30 grams (depending on flavor)
• Price Per Serving: $1.23
• Protein % of Calories: 83%
• Proteins: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 2 grams 
• Fats: 3 grams
• Sugars: 0 grams  
• Company Founded: 2009
• Recommended by Athletes: Graciebfit, Bethany Lewis

The sugar-free protein powder from PlantFusion offers a complete plant protein source that comprises vegetables, legumes, and grains to give you one of the most complete vegan protein sources. Unlike some protein powders, it contains digestive enzymes to combat typical gas and bloating alongside BCAAs and glutamine to aid muscle building and recovery.

Each 28-30 gram serving contains 25 grams of protein which is 83% of the overall calories. It comes with only 3 grams of fat and zero sugar alongside no dairy, gluten, soy, and artificial colors, or preservatives, making it a very pure vegan protein powder choice.

Each PlantFusion product is manufactured under cGMPs and adheres to US FDA guidelines. It comes in 5 flavor options including the brand's patented flavor pure option.

4. Orgain Organic Plant-based Vegan Protein Powder

Orgain believes in the power of pure, good food and supplements so you can live a healthy and happy life. They understand the difference ingredient quality makes to your life and performance. They manufacture a wide range of health and fitness products including protein powders, shakes, bars, and other supplements. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Vegan, Vegetarian 
• Suitable For Vegans: Yes
• Protein Source: Plant protein blend (Pea and brown rice)
• Serving Size: 46 grams 
• Price Per Serving: $1.50
• Protein % of Calories: 56% 
• Proteins: 21 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams 
• Fats: 4 grams
• Sugars: 0 grams 
• Company Founded: 2009
• Recommended by Athletes: Blake Griffin, Byron Jones

If you're looking for an organic protein powder, Orgain organic protein is a fantastic choice. Made of organic pea protein mixed with brown rice protein and organic chia seeds, it's suitable for both vegan and kosher diets.

Each 46-gram serving comes with 21 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and zero sugars. It also has 2 grams of organic dietary fiber to aid in digestion and help with satiety. The Orgain organic plant-based protein is USDA organic approved, featuring no gluten, dairy, sugar, soy, and artificial ingredients. 

It comes in three flavor options and two size options, including a handy travel pack consisting of 10 protein packets. 

5. Isopure Whey Isolate Protein Powder 

Isopure aims to bring the highest quality supplements to active people around the world. They want to be viewed as a fuel source for people to raise the bar with their line of supplements which includes protein powders, drinks, and supplements. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Gluten free, muscle gain, weight loss, Keto
• Suitable For Vegans: No
• Protein Source: Whey protein isolate + Soy lecithin
• Serving Size: 29 grams 
• Price Per Serving: $1.59
• Protein % of Calories: 100%
• Proteins: 25 grams 
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fats: 0 grams  
• Sugars: 0 grams 
• Company Founded: 1984
• Recommended by Athletes: Jedidiah Ballard, Gregory Choplin

The Isopure whey isolate protein powder consists of 100% protein, containing no carbohydrates, sugars, or fats. It also comes at a lower price point than comparable options, making it a good budget-friendly unsweetened protein powder choice.

Each 29-gram scoop contains 25 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate with 5.7 grams of naturally occurring BCAAs to aid in muscle building, making it an excellent keto-friendly protein powder choice. With only two ingredients and no added colors, flavorings, or sweeteners, it's one of the purest protein powder choices out of the ones I've reviewed.

The Isopure whey protein isolate is available as a gluten-free, unflavored powder that comes in a 3 lb tub.

6. Garden of Life Sport Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Garden of Life Sport wants to empower you to achieve extraordinary things by manufacturing high-quality products. They aim to use clean and sustainable ingredients backed by science.

Their product range includes protein powder, vitamins, omegas, and other natural foods. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Gluten free, Keto, Weight loss
• Suitable For Vegans: No
• Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
• Serving Size: 32-33 grams (depending on flavor)
• Price Per Serving: $1.99
• Protein % of Calories: 80%
• Proteins: 24 grams
• Carbohydrates: 6 grams 
• Fats: 0 grams 
• Sugars: 0 grams 
• Company Founded: 2000
• Recommended by Athletes: Nate Diaz, Santia Deck

The Garden of Life sugar-free whey protein isolate is a great gluten-free protein powder option that contains added probiotics for immune system health. Its Informed Choice for Sport Certified making it ideal for athletes looking to improve performance who get drug tested regularly.

In terms of serving size, each 32-33 gram serving scoop contains 24 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate that’s cold processed, micro filtered and non-GMO. It has 6 grams of fat and zero carbohydrates and sugars. Garden of life has included 6 grams of BCAAs and 4 grams of glutamine to support muscle building and recovery.

Garden of life offers zero sugar protein powder in chocolate and vanilla in a 1 lb tub. When buying, you are purchasing from a certified carbon-free brand.

7. Quest Nutrition Protein Powder

Quest’s mission is to make the foods you love work for you, not against you. They want you to have the freedom to eat whatever tasty food you want without feeling guilty.

They manufacture complete protein products that contain minimal carbs and sugar including protein powder, bars, and snacks. 

• Diet Type (Best for): Kosher, Gluten-free, Keto
• Suitable For Vegans: No
• Protein Source: Whey isolate + Micellar casein
• Serving Size: 28-34 grams (depending on flavor) 
• Price Per Serving: $0.98
• Protein % of Calories: 80%
• Proteins: 20-26 grams (depending on flavor)
• Carbohydrates: 3 grams 
• Fats: 0.5- 1.5 grams
• Sugars: <1 gram 
• Company Founded: 2010
• Recommended by Athletes: Ian Book, Taylor Otto

Quest Nutrition has manufactured an excellent multi-purpose sugar-free protein powder containing a mix of fast and slow digesting protein in several unique flavor choices. It's the lowest priced option out of the choices I've reviewed at $0.98 per serving.

Each 30-gram serving contains 100 calories and 23 grams of protein made of 60% fast-absorbing whey isolate and 40% micellar casein. This makes the quest nutrition protein powder ideal for people looking for a lower calorie option, needing a protein source throughout the day or wanting some protein just before bed.

The Quest Nutrition sugar-free protein powder is certified gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar and 0.5-1 grams of fat. It has 10 flavor options, the highest out of all the choices I've reviewed above. 

Sugar Free Protein Powder Benefits

✅ Convenience

One of the main reasons people opt to purchase a protein powder is for convenience. They provide high-quality sources of protein that are readily accessible and require no equipment and little time to make. 

With sugar-free protein powder versions, those who are looking to lose weight have a quick protein source that can be used on the go between meals or around their gym session.

With most people struggling to find enough time in the day, sugar-free protein shakes provide a convenient source of protein.

✅Versatility

With a huge number of brands producing sugar-free protein powders containing different ingredient amounts and proportions, protein powders cater to a wide range of goals including muscle gain, weight loss and general health management.

Alongside this, most sugar-free protein powders are designed with different diet types in mind, such as gluten-free, keto, kosher, and vegan, making them suitable for a range of goals and diet types. 

✅Weight Loss

Sugar-free protein powders are high in protein, high in fiber, and low in sugar. They make excellent choices for athletes of any level looking to lose weight for general health, aesthetics, or for sports competition and performance. 

Protein digests much slower than carbohydrates, meaning it helps to combat hunger by increasing satiety (feeling of fullness), keeping you fuller for longer, and preventing any unnecessary cravings when you're trying to lose weight.

On top of this, the higher protein content usually found in sugar-free protein powders helps contribute to body recomposition when losing weight by providing protein that your body needs for muscle repair and muscle building. 

Who Needs Sugar Free Protein Powder? 

Sugar-free protein powders provide a big range of benefits that make them suitable for a wide range of beginner and high-level athletes and recreational gym goers with
different goals. They include:

• Athletes following a low carbohydrate/ Keto diet
• Those looking to lose weight and have strict macronutrient goals
• Those who like to mix protein powders with fruit or added sweeteners 
• You don't like your protein shake to taste too sweet
• Recreational gym goers and athletes looking to reduce their sugar intake

How to Find the Best Sugar-Free Protein Powder?

When looking for the best protein powder with no sugar, make sure to bare these key points in mind:

1. Protein Type

• Whey Proteins

Whey protein comes from cow’s milk and is one of the most commonly used protein sources. It is regarded as one of the highest quality proteins in terms of amino acid composition.

The three main types of whey are whey isolate, concentrate, and hydrolysate, which vary in quality. Whey isolate has undergone an extensive refinement process and is the highest quality whey with over 90%. Whey concentrate undergoes less refinement and is regarded as lower quality, with around 80% protein content. Whey hydrolysate is a rapidly digesting whey version but is a lot more expensive. 

• Plant-based Proteins

Plant based proteins are considered lower quality due to their sub-optimal amino acid profile but provide excellent protein sources for different diet types and intolerances. Alongside a good diet, plant proteins can be used to get a complete amino acid profile. 

2. Added Ingredients

Sugar-free protein powders often contain multiple added ingredients that can have different positive or negative effects on your body depending on certain intolerances or conditions, meaning you need to check the label before purchasing.

Commonly added ingredients such as BCAAs, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals are usually added to enhance the powder's overall quality and can be a great addition in the right amounts. Ingredients commonly added to sugar-free protein powders also include probiotics and fiber, both of which help to support healthy digestion. 

Other ingredients such as sweeteners and flavorings can be harmful to health depending on certain allergy requirements. Make sure to check the nutrition label before purchasing and consuming the sugar-free protein powder. 

3. Taste/ Mixability

Taste/ mixability is a big consideration when choosing a protein powder with no sugar. With most options containing no added sweeteners, the taste can often be slightly bland and less compatible with common foods usually mixed in.

In terms of mixability, check to see if the protein powder contains any emulsifiers and anti-clumping agents, both of which help the powder to mix better.

4. Quality/ Price

The ingredients in Sugar free protein shakes may be organic, non-GMO, tested by third parties, and produced under cGMP’s. Check the ingredient quality and compare it to the price before purchasing.

FAQs

Is There Any Sugar In Sugar Free Protein Powder?

Rather than containing absolutely no sugar, most sugar-free protein powders will contain negligible amounts of sugar that are added to the powders in such small amounts that they don't have any meaningful effect on the body.

Whilst some protein powders contain 0 grams of sugar, the small amount in sugar-free options is still vastly reduced from the normal amount and is nothing to worry about.

Does Protein Powder Spike Blood Sugar?

In terms of digestibility, protein digests much slower compared to carbohydrates. Some protein powders also contain even slower digesting protein types such as micellar casein.

This means that the chance of blood sugar spikes is much lower with protein which also allows you to feel much fuller for longer, making protein powders an excellent option if you need to control your blood sugar.

Summary - Which Sugar Free Protein Powder is the Best?

Protein powders provide a convenient source of protein that's easily accessible and can be stored away in your bag or at home. Sugar-free protein powders are an excellent option for athletes of any ability level looking to lose weight and improve their general health markers.

The Transparent Labs 100% grass fed whey protein isolate is my top pick for the best protein powder with low sugar, receiving the best total score for macronutrient breakdown, nutrition label transparency, mixability, and value for money.

Have you tried the low sugar protein powders I've reviewed above? What do you think? Let's discuss them down below and I'll answer any questions you may have.

Also Read:

• Best Protein for Night Time
• Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners
• Best Tasting Protein Powder With Water
• Best Unflavored Protein Powder
• Best Protein Powder For Diabetics
• Best Protein For Cutting
• Best Protein Powder With Caffeine
• Milk Protein vs Whey Protein
• Is Casein Better Than Whey

References:

1. What is Diabetes? // Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/about/index.html
2. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GRASS-FED AND GRASS-FINISHED BEEF? // Verdefarms: https://www.verdefarms.com/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-grass-fed-and-grass-finished-beef/
3. The sweet danger of sugar // Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-sweet-danger-of-sugar
4. What Is Plant-Based Protein? // Birdseye: https://www.birdseye.co.uk/nutrition/nutrients-and-minerals/what-is-plant-based-protein