Best whey protein and protein powders for workouts
Experts reveal why whey proteins are key to building strength and muscle mass, plus see which powder supplement is loved by over 22,000 happy customers.
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When it comes to building muscle mass and recovering from workouts at your optimum, protein supplements have long been heralded as a great option to try.
According to personal trainer and director of Flow Athletic, Ben Lucas, using whey protein powder supplements (you can find loads of great options at Amazon, THE ICONIC and more) can be a key strategy for both bulking up and maintaining health.
“Protein is the building block of the entire body and whey protein is a good, healthy way of adding more protein into your body, especially if you are active,” Ben tells news.com.au. “A protein supplement can help you recover and gain muscle mass and strength.”
In fact, a 2018 study carried out by researchers at McMaster University and published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine discovered that using dietary protein supplements can “significantly improve muscle strength and size when taken by healthy adults who lift weights”.
Whey protein is a by-product of cheesemaking and is loved thanks to the fact it’s jam packed with all of the essential amino acids that assist our body to both build and repair muscles. Plus, it’s also a brilliant source of energy. Something worth noting? Whey protein supplements should always be accompanied by a healthy diet and regular exercise. If you’re keen to try some in your next smoothie, here are the best options. Our top pick though?
Isopure Whey Protein Isolate, which has been praised by over 22,000 reviewers on Amazon for its “exceptional blendability, no taste, and easy digestibility”.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best whey protein for your needs and budget, we asked personal trainer and director of Flow Athletic, Ben Lucas, as well as Jennifer McLaren, Accredited Practising Dietitian from Nutrition Australia, for their expert advice and recommendations on what to look for when buying a whey protein powder. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best whey protein from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
OUR TOP PICKS
In this article:
- What to look for when choosing whey protein?
- What are the benefits of whey protein?
- How should I use protein powder and how often should I take it?
- What are the different kinds of whey protein?
- What are the benefits of protein in general?
- What are some delicious ways to consume whey protein?
- What other kinds of protein powders are on the market?
BEST WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE POWDERS
ALLMAX Isoflex Chiller Whey Protein Isolate – Citrus Peach Sensation, $39.99 at iHerb
What You Need To Know
Size: 907 grams
Ingredients: Hybrid-ratio ion-filtered whey protein isolate (cross-flow, ultrafiltered whey protein isolate, lon-charged particle-filtered whey protein isolate, alpha-lactalbumin-rich whey protein isolate), malic acid, citric acid, natural and artificial flavours, guar gum, sea salt, protein enzyme blend (protease, bromelain), acesulfame potassium, sucralose, anti-foam agent (organic maltodextrin, organic vegetable oil), fd & c yellow no. 6 and sunflower lecithin.
If you don’t like a milky protein drink, the ALLMAX Isoflex Chiller may be your best bet. It is 99 per cent lactose-free and has a citrus peach flavour which makes for a refreshing ice cold juice-style drink. With a 4.4 out of five star rating and over 200 positive reviews on iHerb, one reviewer wrote: “Great as a substitute to your regular whey protein shakes if you are tired of the typical ‘milkshake’ consistency. This comes out as a very lightweight juice, and goes great with ice … Great for post-workouts as a quick protein boost. It’s also low carb so good for keto and paleo diets. Will definitely order again.”
BEST WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE POWDER
What You Need To Know
Size: 2.27 kilograms
Ingredients: Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate [MILK], Whey Protein Concentrate [MILK], Whey Peptides [MILK]) (Emulsifier: SOY Lecithin), Cocoa Powder, Flavors, Sweetener (950).
With over 10,000 glowing five-star reviews on Amazon, you can be rest assured this whey protein powder is one that won’t disappoint. Delivering 24 grams of whey protein per serving, this gluten free option can assist in muscle development and repair. One happy reviewer wrote that this option is “the standard by which others are measured”, while another commented, “Great protein supplement and not too sweet as most other protein powders are.”
BEST TASTING WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
California Gold Nutrition Sport Whey Protein Isolate, $19.14 at iHerb
What You Need To Know
Size: 454 grams
Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate (from bovine milk) and sunflower lecithin.
Free from: No fillers, no gluten, no GMOs, no soy, no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners
With over 16,000 glowing five-star reviews on iHerb, you can be assured this whey protein powder is one of the best. Its popularity is down to its taste, ease of use and the amount of amino acids in the formulation that rival more expensive brands. Each scoop contains 18 amino acids and the whey protein isolate formula is fast absorbing and easy to digest. Fans of the product laud it for its ability to dissolve much easier than other powders on the market, with one reviewer saying: “it’s very easy to dissolve, you don’t even have to use a shaker, it’s enough to stir with a spoon, it’s creamy.”
BEST BULK BUY WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
California Gold Nutrition 100% Whey Protein Isolate Very Vanilla, $29.81 at iHerb
What You Need To Know
Size: 907 grams
Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate (from BOVINE MILK), Organic Cane Sugar, Natural Flavors, Xanthan Gum, Sea Salt, Sunflower Lecithin, Stevia Leaf Extract.
Free from: eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy or gluten.
California Gold Nutrition 100 Whey Protein Isolate is an iHerb bestseller thanks to its easily absorbed whey protein isolate formulation that’s packed with amino acids. “It has become a daily essential for me. It boasts a delicious taste, superb mixability, and high-quality protein content. Ideal for muscle recovery and development, it’s low in sugar and carbs, making it perfect for those watching their macros,” wrote one five-star review.
With over 2000 positive reviews, it’s definitely worth adding to your to-try list.
BEST CERTIFIED ORGANIC WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
Inca Organics Certified Organic Whey Protein Powder – Raw Cacao, $49.95 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Size: 400 grams
Ingredients: New Zealand grass fed whey protein, Peruvian fair-trade cacao
Free from: no lecithin, soy, added sugar or flavours, GMO, artificial sweeteners or preservatives, fillers
Australian certified organic protein supplement brand Inca Organics is becoming a firm favourite with protein lovers. With 29 grams of protein per serve, this gluten-free option boasts a velvety chocolate flavour that doesn’t overpower. Add to your favourite smoothie or simply blend two scoops of the powder with one cup of liquid to get your fix. Not into chocolate flavour? Opt for coconut or natural here.
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
Pure Product Australia Whey Protein Isolate Unflavoured, $45.41 at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Size: 1 kilogram
Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate and Lecithin
The Pure Product Australia Whey Protein Isolate is a great option for those wanting to try a quality whey protein powder without hurting their bank balance. This Australian powder has been filtered at a low temperature and is naturally high in branched chain amino acids and glutamine, which can assist in muscle recovery and help to support your immune system. The unflavoured option gives you the opportunity to mix it with different fruits and flavours to suit your tastebuds. One reviewer praised this option for “being palatable” and easy on their stomach. “Not grainy. Still sweetened, so it’s actually palatable. Doesn’t give me digestive issues … Don’t tolerate lactose very well, but this doesn’t give me any shame in the toilet. I’m super pleased, it’s great value and I can save some money on meat while still getting protein in,” they wrote.
BEST NATURAL GRASS-FED WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
At Health Australia Naturally Grass-Fed Whey Protein Naturally Vanilla, $59.95 at HealthyLife
What You Need To Know
Size: 500 grams
Ingredients: Grass-fed whey protein isolate, natural vanilla flavouring, Stevia, soy lecithin
Free from: Gluten-free, palm oil-free
Your search for a brilliant natural whey protein option is over, At Health Australia sources milk from cows that graze in green pastures. You’ll be delivered up to 90 per cent protein with every serve and the cross flow microfiltration process implemented ensures your daily smoothie will deliver you whey protein that has retained all its goodness.
BEST WHEY PROTEIN POWDER THAT’S NOT CHOCOLATE OR VANILLA
What You Need To Know
Size: 1 kilogram
Ingredients: Grass-fed Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate), Flavouring, Natural Sweeteners (steviol), Lecithin.
Chocolate and vanilla lovers have endless options when it comes to picking a whey protein supplement but if you’re a fan of neither, things can become tricky. Enter: Pure Product Australia Whey Protein Isolate and Concentrate Powder in banana flavour. Yes, banana. With 24 grams of protein per serve and Pure Product’s guarantee of filtered whey protein that’s high in amino acids and glutamine, you know you’re getting a quality product that agrees with your tastebuds.
BEST BREASTFEEDING-FRIENDLY WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
The Yummy Mummy Vanilla Whey Protein Powder, $67.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Size: 300 grams
Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate (93 per cent), natural vanilla flavour, natural sweetener (thaumatin), vanilla bean powder (0.11 per cent), anticaking agent (silicon dioxide), emulsifier (soy lecithin).
Free from: Hormone free, GMO Free, low sodium, no artificial sweeteners or flavours, 99.9 per cent sugar free
Yes, a protein supplement can be used to support breastfeeding mothers to function at their best. However, with so many variations on the market, it can be difficult to know what’s safe. Free from additives that some whey protein powders contain that aren’t ideal for breastfeeding mums – like caffeine, guarana or other stimulants – this option from The Yummy Mummy is great. Each serve contains 28 grams of grass-fed whey protein and the delicious vanilla flavour means it can be added into smoothies for some extra protein on-the-go.
BEST SAMPLE PACK OF WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
INC 100% Dynamic Whey Chocolate 36g Single Serve Sachet, $2 at Chemist Warehouse
What You Need To Know
Size: 36 grams
Ingredients: INC 100 per cent Dynamic Whey Protein Blend (85 per cent) [Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Emulsifier (Sunflower, Lecithin, Soy Lecithin)], Cocoa, Powder, Flavours, Medium Chain Triglycerides (Contain Sodium Caseinate), Salt, Vegetable Gum (Xanthan Gum), Sweeteners (Sucralose, Acesulfame K), Papain, Anti-Caking Agent (Silicon Dioxide).
If you’re curious about trying whey protein but aren’t keen on forking out upwards of $50 for a tub when it mightn’t agree with you, these single serve sachets are a great option. They’re also perfect for those who want to stash them in their gym bag and consume them on the go. Not into chocolate? Grab yourself the vanilla flavour here or the choc mint flavour here.
BEST BULK CONVENIENCE PACK OF WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
Uprotein Protein Whey Protein Hydro Plus Enzymes, $154.99 at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Size: 4 kilograms in total
Ingredients: 100 per cent Whey Protein Hydro + Enzymes Blend (96 per cent) (Instantised Whey Protein Concentrate, Instantised Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Hydrolysate, Proteolysis Digestive Enzymes (Papain, Bromelain), Anticaking Agent), Socially And Environmentally Responsible Cocoa, Natural Flavour, Acesulfame K, Sweetener (Sucralose). Contains milk, soybean products. Soybean products (Soy Lecithin) is used to instantise whey proteins and is less than 1 per cent of the whey product.
For those whey protein converts who aren’t messing around, this four kilogram option consisting of 100 x 40g serves and 133 x 30g serves is great value for money and perfect for those who love the convenience and versatility of sachets. It contains 32 grams of whey protein per serve, has the added benefit of digestive enzymes to aid absorption and comes in Choc Brownie and Banana Sundae flavours. One devoted reviewer dubbed this Uprotein option as “a great investment”. “Buy this if you want a good protein powder, I have no need to look elsewhere and the experts were right after all on this one. Great work Uprotein,” they wrote.
BEST WHEY PROTEIN POWDER ALTERNATIVES: BEST VEGAN, PLANT-BASED
Whey protein might be one of the most popular on the market but there are some great vegan and plant-based alternatives if you’re unable to stomach it.
WelleCo Nourishing Plant Protein Refill Pack Vanilla, $39 at Adore Beauty
What You Need To Know
Size: 300 grams
Ingredients: Vanilla Ingredients: Organic Pea Protein (35 per cent), Organic Brown Rice Protein (34 per cent), Natural Flavours, Maltodextrin, Xylitol, L-Glutamine, Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), Psyllium (Plantago ovata) Seed Husk, Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Powder, L-Phenylalanine, Inulin, full list can be found here.
Free from: Dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, wheat-free, no refined sugars
This vegan powder from WelleCo, supermodel Elle Macpherson’s wellness company, uses organic sprouted brown rice and pea protein as a great alternative to whey protein. Plus, you’ll score a range of added ingredients like dandelion, which can support liver function, prebiotics and probiotics to support your gut health, and antioxidants pomegranate and acai.
Vital Plant Protein Strawberry Flavour, $55.95 at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Size: 1 kilogram
Ingredients: 100 per cent Pea Protein, Red Beet Powder, Stevia, Monk Fruit, Thaumatin (natural sweetener), Natural Strawberry Flavour, Natural Vanilla Flavour, Citric Acid (anhydrous)
Free from: Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free and safe for vegans
This Vital Proteins option is created with pea protein – which boasts the same profile as whey protein – containing 18 amino acids. One happy reviewer shared: “I really like this protein powder. It tastes really nice and is not gritty like a lot of other powders. I will definitely buy again.”
BEST WHEY PROTEIN POWDER FOR WEIGHT LOSS
Isopure Whey Protein Isolate, Unflavored, 1 Pound, $62.50 at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Size: 1 pound or 454 grams
Ingredients: Whey protein isolate, soy lecithin.
Free from: No added colours, flavours, sweeteners, keto friendly, gluten and lactose free
Dubbed Amazon’s Choice for unflavoured protein powder, this pick has over 22,545 five-star reviews.
It’s packed with vitamin C, zinc, vitamin E and naturally occurring BCAAs which work to provide immune support and optimum muscle health.
Plus, it will also help you stay full during the day so you can be more conscious of what you’re eating.
“It has all the qualities I wanted in a protein powder: exceptional blendability, no taste, and easy digestibility. This product has become an essential part of my fitness routine and I mix it with choc milk flavour once a day,” wrote one five-star review.
BEST WHEY PROTEIN POWDER FOR MUSCLE GAIN
Ghost Whey Protein, $81.40 at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Size: 900g
Ingredients: GHOST® 100% Whey Protein Whey Protein Isolate 90% (Sunflower Lecithinated), Whey Protein Concentrate 80% (Sunflower Lecithinated), Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate), Natural and Artificial Flavour, Salt, GHOST® Enzymes (Proteases, Bromelain, Lactase), Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Sucralose, Acesulfame, Potassium.
Free from: Gluten, soy
Each scoop of this protein powder contains 25 grams of one of the purest whey proteins available. This has been specifically designed to improve muscle tone and increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, decrease appetite and boost immunity.
“This protein is one of the best I have ever tried. I choose the normal milk chocolate flavour, and it tastes great and mixes well with every liquid I’ve tried,” wrote one five-star review.
Another said, “This protein powder surprised me at how good it tastes. It is not chalky and blends well.”
BEST WHEY PROTEIN BARS (THAT TASTE GREAT TOO)
BNRG Power Crunch Protein Energy Bar Triple Chocolate 12 Bars, $53.24 at iHerb
What You Need To Know
Size: 40g each
Ingredients: Proto Whey® protein blend (Micro Peptides™ from high-DH hydrolysed whey protein [40% di and tripeptides]. whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate), palm oil, enriched flour (wheat flour, malted barley flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), palm kernel oil, sugar, cocoa processed with alkali, canola oil, fructose, soy lecithin, natural flavours, maltodextrin, salt, stevia leaf extract, baking soda, ammonium bicarbonate, monk fruit.
Easily add some protein into your diet with these delicious crème-filled chocolate wafer bars packed with 13g of super protein featuring High-DH whey hydrolysates and only 5g of sugar.
Perfect to eat at any time of the day whether before or after a workout or simply if you’re craving a sweet treat, these tiny morsels of goodness will not let you down.
Currently ranked number one in energy bars on iHerb and with over 4200 five-star reviews, this is a popular product for a reason.
“I tried many different protein bars and I can say that this is one of my best bars ever! Amazing chocolate taste with high quality ingredients and 13g protein! For me it is a good and healthy choice for a snack during work or after training!” wrote one five-star review.
Another said, “I highly recommend this product! It’s the perfect size and texture – crispy and satisfying. With a 5-star rating, it definitely lives up to the hype. The taste is excellent. Plus, it has a good amount of protein for the calories, making it ideal for dieting and weightlifting.”
BEST PROTEIN SHAKERS
Happy Way Black Insulated Stainless Steel Shaker, $34.95 at THE ICONIC
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor
What I like about this shaker is its versatility. Sure you can use it for just your basic post-gym protein powder and water but it’s also insulated and larger than average. This means I can also use it to take a chilled smoothie from home to work, which is great at helping me save money when I have a smoothie craving. I also find the lid is really secure – no risk of spilling your protein shake on your activewear! As a material girl I also love how aesthetic it is and it goes well with my black Frank Green Coffee Cup.
We also have our eye on the Vitamix Ascent Series A2500i High Performance Super Blender Black that is currently on sale for $1099 (down from $1399). It’s a great option if you’re looking for something that works for more than just protein shakes.
Read our pick of the six best blenders to buy here.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING WHEY PROTEIN?
“This will depend on your goal; you might want to work with a dietitian to work out the ratio of protein to other nutrients that best suits your needs,” Jennifer says.
But she also says that other factors to consider are taste and texture preferences.
Plus, if you’re participating in sport you might want to select one that has been independently tested and approved suggests Jennifer.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF WHEY PROTEIN?
“Whey protein is a good choice because it has a high biological value. In other words, it’s a complete protein,” says Jennifer. “Complete proteins contain all of the essential amino acids that our body’s require.”
Plus, according to Jennifer, it is also digested really quickly and contains a large amount of leucine, which plays a big role in building new muscle.
HOW SHOULD I USE PROTEIN POWDER AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TAKE IT?
“Protein powder is most convenient as a shake using water or milk,” says Jennifer. You can add it to smoothies, cereal or baking.
She also recommends trying to spread your protein intake from both food and supplements across the day.
“This will give your body a better chance to absorb the protein and use it to build new muscle,” she says.
Jennifer also suggests trying to have a combination of protein and carbohydrates after exercise, from food or supplements, as this will aid recovery.
Most importantly Jennifer says to make sure to speak to a medical professional before taking a new supplement, especially if you’re taking medicines or other supplements.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF WHEY PROTEIN?
There are three different varieties of whey protein: whey protein concentrate (a more concentrated iteration that can maintain more nutrients), whey protein isolate (a generally carbohydrate-free, more easily digested option) and whey protein hydrolysate (which offers the fastest absorption).
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PROTEIN IN GENERAL?
Protein is essential for everyone – whether you’re a gym regular or not. “A diet high in protein is great for your health, your bodily functions and repairing tissues (when you lift weight and workout you often tear them and that is how they change and improve),” Ben says. “It is also great for keeping you feeling full for longer so you don’t rush for comfort food or overeat when you don’t need to.”
WHAT ARE SOME DELICIOUS WAYS TO CONSUME WHEY PROTEIN?
No, you’re not confined to smoothies when it comes to protein. “These days people are getting more creative and they are putting it in everything,” says Ben. Think protein balls, protein pancakes, protein bread, brownies and protein ice creams. They are also being used to add protein to certain desserts, from mousses to raw slices.”
WHAT OTHER KINDS OF PROTEIN POWDERS ARE ON THE MARKET?
“Pea protein is definitely popular these days, especially for those who are plant based,” says Ben. “Rice protein is also great for people who have an allergen to pea. Coconut protein is also getting more and more popular too.”
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