Which is better, whey protein vs. plant protein? It depends on several factors which we’ll explore in this article.
But first, consider that the global whey protein market was valued at approximately $11.79 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $22.63 billion by 2032 with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5%.1Whey Protein Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Isolates, Concentrates, Others), Application (Food and Beverages, Animal Feed, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/whey-protein-market-106555.
Likewise, the value of the plant-based protein was estimated at $14.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $20.5 billion by 2029 with a CAGR of 7.5%.2Plant-based Protein Market. Markets And Markets. Retrieved January 24, 2025 from https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/plant-based-protein-market-14715651.html.
Whether you’re exploring custom manufacturing or enhancing your current whey or plant protein product, both options are quite popular and in high demand among consumers.
Protein is an essential nutrient that is vital for sustaining biological processes and life itself. The word protein comes from the Greek word proteios, meaning “primary,” “first place,” or “of the first rank.” Its fundamental role in health and nutrition makes it a key component for everyone.3Schlick T. (). Protein Structure Introduction. In: Molecular Modeling and Simulation: An Interdisciplinary Guide. Interdisciplinary Applied Mathematics. New York, NY: Springer; 2010, vol 21. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6351-2_3.
Proteins play essential roles in human biochemistry. They form the foundation of body structures like skin and hair, support tissue, muscle, and bone repair, and can serve as an energy source. Proteins are also the building blocks of cellular enzymes—biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions in cells. Additionally, they are vital for hormone production, nutrient transport, and communication between cells, tissues, and organs. They strengthen the immune system, form digestive enzymes that break down food for absorption, and help regulate fluid and pH balance in the body.4LaPelusa A, Kaushik R. Physiology, Proteins. [Updated 2022 Nov 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555990/. 5Van D Walle G. 9 Important Functions of Protein in Your Body. Healthline. February 15, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/functions-of-protein#:~:text=Protein%20helps%20repair%20and%20build,of%20protein%20in%20your%20body.
Given the many vital functions of protein, choosing between plant-based and whey protein is a crucial decision when formulating your supplement products.
What is Plant-Based Protein?
What is plant-based protein made of? As the name suggests plant-based proteins are concentrates or isolates derived from protein-rich plants.
Popular plant-based proteins include soy, pea, brown rice, and hemp protein, each offering unique benefits:
- Soy protein – The original plant-based protein in the dietary supplement industry, soy protein is rich in isoflavones, which provide additional health benefits.
- Pea protein – A highly digestible plant protein known for promoting satiety and offering various nutritional advantages.
- Brown rice protein – Considered hypoallergenic, this plant-based protein is reasonably complete and boasts excellent amino acid bioavailability.
- Hemp protein – Sourced from the cannabis plant but free of THC, hemp protein is a sustainable option that thrives in diverse climates and has multiple uses across different industries.
To understand the difference between whey and plant protein, it’s important to know the terms complete protein and incomplete protein:
- A complete protein contains all the essential amino acids in sufficient amounts.6Murata K, Nishikaze M, Tanaka M. Nutritional quality of rice protein compared with whole egg protein. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1977;23:125-31.
- An incomplete protein lacks one or more of these amino acids.7Murata K, Nishikaze M, Tanaka M. Nutritional quality of rice protein compared with whole egg protein. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1977;23:125-31.
While whey protein and other animal-source proteins are all considered complete, plant-based proteins are considered incomplete. Nevertheless, apart from hemp protein, the others listed above had all compared favorably with the “gold standard”, whey protein.
Another option is to combine different plant proteins, allowing them to complement each other and balance out any missing amino acids.
How is Plant-Based Protein Made?
There are some similarities and differences in the way that one plant-based protein is made from another:
- Soy protein – Soy protein is made by extracting protein from soybeans through a series of steps that include dehulling, flaking, and defatting. The resulting protein can be processed into soy flour, concentrates, or isolates.8Lusas EW, Riaz MN. Soy protein products: processing and use. J Nutr. 1995;125(3 Suppl):573S-580S. doi:10.1093/jn/125.3_Suppl.573S.
- Pea protein – The steps involved in producing pea protein include dehulling, grinding and milling, extraction, separation, precipitation, washing and drying, and milling and powdering. At this point, the fine powder can be used as pea protein powder.9Shanthakumar P, Klepacka J, Bains A, Chawla P, Dhull SB, Najda A. The Current Situation of Pea Protein and Its Application in the Food Industry. Molecules. 2022 Aug 22;27(16):5354. doi: 10.3390/molecules27165354. PMID: 36014591; PMCID: PMC9412838.
- Brown rice protein – Brown rice protein powder is made by milling brown rice grains, rehydrating them, and then treating them with enzymes to separate the protein from the carbohydrates. The protein is then isolated and powdered.10Fischer M. What are the benefits of brown rice protein powder? Gainful. November 17, 2020. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://app.gainful.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-brown-rice-protein-powder/#:~:text=Brown%20rice%20protein%20is%20a,resulting%20in%20a%20protein%20powder.
- Hemp protein – Hemp protein is made by grinding hemp seeds into a fine powder. The process involves cleaning, drying, and de-shelling the seeds, then pressing them to extract oil. The remaining meal is ground into a powder.11How hemp protein powder is made. The Hemp Blog. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://blog.thehempshop.co.uk/how-hemp-protein-powder-is-made/.
Health Benefits of Plant-Based Protein
When comparing plant-based protein vs. whey, one key advantage of plant-based proteins is their lower risk of causing allergies.
In contrast, milk-based proteins like whey and casein have higher allergenic potential. A national survey12Warren CM, Agrawal A, Gandhi D, Gupta RS. The US population-level burden of cow’s milk allergy. World Allergy Organ J. 2022 Apr 21;15(4):100644. doi: 10.1016/j.waojou.2022.100644. PMID: 35539895; PMCID: PMC9046619. of 51,819 U.S. households found that about 1 in 20 people reported an allergy to cow’s milk. The prevalence of cow’s milk allergy was found to be a substantial population-level burden including substantial healthcare utilization, psychosocial burden, and nutritional impacts—particularly among the approximately 30% of individuals with CMA who cannot tolerate baked forms of milk. It should also be noted that milk allergies are not the same thing as lactose intolerance.
A milk allergy is an immune system reaction to the proteins in milk, whereas lactose intolerance is a digestive issue where the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down the sugar (lactose) in milk. Milk allergy results in symptoms such as hives, wheezing, and in some cases, anaphylaxis. Lactose intolerance results in symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Consequently, even a milk-based protein powder, such as whey protein, is free of lactose, its protein content can still result in an allergic reaction in some people.
The following are specific benefits associated with different plant-based proteins:
- Soy protein – Helps induce thermogenesis13Claessens M, Calame W, Siemensma AD, Saris WH, van Baak MA. The thermogenic and metabolic effects of protein hydrolysate with or without a carbohydrate load in healthy male subjects. Metabolism. 2007 Aug;56(8):1051-9., increase bone mineral content and density in postmenopausal women14Scheiber MD, Rebar RW. Isoflavones and postmenopausal bone health: a viable alternative to estrogen therapy? Menopause 1999; 6(3):233-41., promote healthy cholesterol levels already within a normal range15Baum J, Teng H, Erdman JW Jr, Weigel RM, Klein BP, Persky VW, Freels S, Surya P, Bakhit RM, Ramos E, Shay NF, Potter SM. Long-term intake of soy protein improves blood lipid profiles and increases mononuclear cell low-density-lipoprotein receptor messenger RNA in hypercholesterolemic, postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr 1998; 68:545-551., and relieve vasomotor symptoms of menopause (hot flashes and night sweats)16The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG Practice bulletin: Use of botanicals for management of menopausal symptoms. 2001 June 20. Accessed March 29, 2006 from http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?ss=15&doc_id=3977&nbr=3116. 17Knight DC, Eden JA. A review of the clinical effects of phytoestrogens. Obstet Gynecol 1996; 87:897B904. 18Albertazzi P, Pansini F, Bonaccorsi G, Zanotti L, Forini E, De Aloysio D. The effect of dietary soy supplementation on hot flushes. Obstet Gynecol 1998; 91:6B11. 19Murkies AL, Lombard C, Strauss BJG, Wilcox G, Burger HG, Morton MS. Dietary flour supplementation decreases post-menopausal hot flushes: Effect of soy and wheat. Maturitas 1995; 21:189B95..
- Pea protein – Helps induce thermogenesis20Claessens M, Calame W, Siemensma AD, Saris WH, van Baak MA. The thermogenic and metabolic effects of protein hydrolysate with or without a carbohydrate load in healthy male subjects. Metabolism. 2007 Aug;56(8):1051-9., promote satiety21Smith CE, Mollard RC, Luhovyy BL, Anderson GH. The effect of yellow pea protein and fibre on short-term food intake, subjective appetite and glycaemic response in healthy young men. Br J Nutr. 2012 Aug;108 Suppl 1:S74-80., maintain healthy blood pressure levels already within normal ranges22Li H, Prairie N, Udenigwe CC, Adebiyi AP, Tappia PS, Aukema HM, Jones PJ, Aluko RE. Blood pressure lowering effect of a pea protein hydrolysate in hypertensive rats and humans. J Agric Food Chem. 2011 Sep 28;59(18):9854-60., and promote muscle growth23Babault N, Païzis C, Deley G. et al. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015; 12:3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5..
- Brown rice protein – Helps decrease fat mass, increase lean body mass, skeletal muscle hypertrophy, power, and strength.24Joy JM, Lowery RP, Wilson JM, et al. The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance. Nutr J. 2013; 12: 86.
- Hemp protein – Helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels already within normal ranges25Samsamikor M, Mackay DS, Mollard RC, Alashi AM, Aluko RE. Hemp seed protein and its hydrolysate compared with casein protein consumption in adults with hypertension: a double-blind crossover study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2024;120(1):56-65. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.05.001., and provides antioxidant protection against oxidative stress26Zhang J, Griffin J, Li Y, Wang D, Wang W. Antioxidant Properties of Hemp Proteins: From Functional Food to Phytotherapy and Beyond. Molecules. 2022 Nov 16;27(22):7924. doi: 10.3390/molecules27227924. PMID: 36432024; PMCID: PMC9693028..
What is Whey Protein?
Whey is a byproduct of cheese production, and whey protein is extracted from it. It typically contains a higher concentration of essential amino acids than many other protein sources.27Cribb PJ, Wiliams AD, Carey MF, Hayes A. The effect of whey isolate and resistance training on strength, body composition, and plasma glutamine. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2006;16:494-509.
Also, whey protein typically contains 24% branched-chain amino acids which are readily oxidized as an energy source during stress. In addition, whey protein is also a source of cysteine, a precursor to the vital intracellular antioxidant glutathione (GSH)28Whey Protein monograph. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Retrieved February 24, 2009 from http://www.naturaldatabase.com/(S(t5ddowevmyxg3m2naxm45n55))/nd/Search.aspx?cs=&s=ND&pt=100&id=833&fs=ND&searchid=13583810., which is depleted by oxidative stress that occurs during exercise, infections, trauma, or major surgery.29Whey Protein monograph. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Retrieved February 24, 2009 from http://www.naturaldatabase.com/(S(t5ddowevmyxg3m2naxm45n55))/nd/Search.aspx?cs=&s=ND&pt=100&id=833&fs=ND&searchid=13583810.
There are three major forms of whey protein. These include whey concentrate, whey isolate, and whey hydrolysate:
- Whey concentrate – This option generally provides about 80% protein. Typically, it is the least expensive of the three forms and will have a higher level of lactose which increases both sugar and carbohydrate levels in the protein.
- Whey isolate – Whey protein isolate typically contains about 90% protein. It undergoes a filtration process that removes most of the fat and lactose, making it a leaner option compared to whey concentrate.
- Whey hydrolysate – Whey hydrolysate contains about 85% protein and undergoes hydrolysis, a process that breaks down the protein for easier digestion and absorption. Made from whey isolate, it is also free of fat and lactose. However, it is the most expensive whey protein option.
How is Whey Protein Made?
Whey protein is made through a multistep process:
- Milk collection – From high-quality cow’s milk.
- Cheesemaking – During which enzymes separate the solid curds from the liquid whey.
- Whey separation – Filtration removes fat and impurities.
- Protein concentration – Further processing through membrane filtration or ion exchange.
- Drying – Whey protein dried into powder.
To learn more about how proteins are manufactured, our Senior Formulator, Kevin Kumetz, recently wrote a detailed article on the protein powder manufacturing process.
Health Benefits of Whey Protein
There have been many studies on whey protein, especially whey protein isolate (WPI). These studies have demonstrated several different health benefits, among which are the following:
- Digestibility – WPI is virtually fat- and lactose-free, is extremely digestible, and has a good taste. WPI does not tend to cause gas, bloating, or other gastrointestinal distress.30Farnfield MM, Trenerry C, Carey KA, Cameron-Smith D. Plasma amino acid response after ingestion of different whey protein fractions. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2009 Sep;60(6):476-86.
- PDCAAS – WPI has received the highest score (1.14) of any protein tested according to the Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS), the preferred method for evaluating protein quality. And now, a recently developed fermented whey ingredient is taking protein quality to an even higher level, with an astounding PDCAAS of 1.20.31U.S. Dairy Export Council. Protein. Retrieved January 30, 2013 from http://www.usdec.org/Products/content.cfm?ItemNumber=82510.
- Bodybuilding – Clinical research32Cribb PJ, Wiliams AD, Carey MF, Hayes A. The effect of whey isolate and resistance training on strength, body composition, and plasma glutamine. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2006;16:494-509. 33Cribb PJ, Williams AD, Stathis CG, et al. Effects of whey isolate, creatine, and resistance training on muscle hypertrophy. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2007;39:298-307. 34Candow DG, Burke NC, Smith-Palmer T, Burke DG. Effect of whey and soy protein supplementation combined with resistance training in young adults. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2006;16:233-44. shows that taking 1.2-1.5 grams WPI per kilogram of body weight, per day in combination with strength training for 6-10 weeks increased lean body mass, strength, and muscle hypertrophy compared to placebo.
- Fat loss – Studies35Frestedt JL, Zenk JL, Kuskowski MA, Ward LS, Bastian ED. A whey-protein supplement increases fat loss and spares lean muscle in obese subjects: a randomized human clinical study. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2008 Mar 27;5:8. doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-5-8. PMID: 18371214; PMCID: PMC2289832. 36Batsis JA, Petersen CL, Cook SB, Al-Nimr RI, Driesse T, Pidgeon D, Fielding R. Impact of whey protein supplementation in a weight-loss intervention in rural dwelling adults: A feasibility study. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2021 Oct;45:426-432. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.07.006. Epub 2021 Jul 24. PMID: 34620350; PMCID: PMC8502229. have shown that subjects using 20-29 g WPI lost significantly more body fat and significantly less lean muscle mass.
- Glutathione – In clinical research37Zavorsky GS, Kubow S, Grey V, Riverin V, Lands LC. An open-label dose-response study of lymphocyte glutathione levels in healthy men and women receiving pressurized whey protein isolate supplements. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2007;58(6):429-36., those who ingested 45 grams daily of WPI had the highest increase in glutathione (24%), a critical antioxidant.
Is Plant-Based Protein Better Than Whey Protein?
Is plant protein better than whey protein? Neither is truly better than the other. Both provide digestible, quality sources of protein that the body can use.
If you’re targeting customers who prefer vegan, plant-based sources, and/or who are allergic or otherwise sensitive to milk products, and/or who are concerned with environmental impact, then plant protein is the better choice. If these factors aren’t a concern, the best approach is to choose a protein source based on the specific benefits you want to highlight.
Difference Between Whey and Plant Protein
Besides what we’ve already discussed, there are some additional differences to consider between whey and plant proteins. These include taste and texture, nutritional content, and sustainability Briefly discuss the differences between whey and plant protein based on:
Taste and Texture
Due to its dairy origin, whey proteins typically have a creamier and smoother texture. Comparatively, plant proteins can have a grittier texture and earthier taste due to their origins from plant sources.
That being said, over the past few years, plant protein suppliers have become more adept at improving the texture and taste of those proteins. The best pea proteins have virtually eliminated any hint of “beany” taste.
Nutritional Content
- Amino Acid Profiles: Although both provide similar protein content, whey has a higher concentration of BCAAs (about 26%) including leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Also, the amino acid profile is such that whey is considered a complete protein. Conversely, plant-based proteins contain lesser amounts of BCAAs (18-19%) and may require mixing with other plant proteins to achieve a better amino acid profile.
- Calorie Count: Both have similar calorie counts, but plant protein tends to have slightly fewer calories.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Plant-based proteins have a high nutrient density and may offer additional vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, depending on the source. Whey protein may contain calcium, B-vitamins, and other vitamins & minerals in lesser amounts. At the end of the day, however, these other nutrients are not generally considered to be key factors in making a protein choice.
Sustainability and Ethics: Building a Brand with Purpose:
Whey protein comes from cow’s milk, while plant-based proteins do not contain animal products, making them suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Plant-based proteins generally have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to animal-based proteins, using less land and water, and producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions.38CAS Science Team. Going green with plant-based meat sustainability. CAS. August 30, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://www.cas.org/resources/cas-insights/going-green-plant-based-meat-sustainability#:~:text=When%20dealing%20with%20carbon%20emissions,use%2C%20eutrophication%2C%20and%20acidification.
Concluding Thoughts
Both whey and plant-based proteins are experiencing significant global market growth. Since protein is essential for health and wellness, selecting the right type for your supplement products is crucial.
Each protein source offers unique benefits—plant-based proteins have lower allergenic potential and a smaller environmental impact, while whey protein provides a smoother, creamier texture.
When deciding between whey protein vs. plant protein, the best choice depends on your target audience. No matter which you choose, Vitaquest is here to help.
Manufacture High-Quality Protein Supplements with Vitaquest
Vitaquest is a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that has provided nutraceutical businesses with exceptional supplement research and development, powder supplement manufacturing, packaging design, powder, and particle engineering services using fluid bed, oscillation, and roller compaction technologies, and fulfillment solutions for over 45 years.
Whether you’re a newcomer to the industry or aiming to diversify your product range, Vitaquest possesses the expertise, cutting-edge facilities, and solutions needed to swiftly and effectively turn your plant-based protein or whey protein supplement concept into reality. Furthermore, you’ll receive an exceptional level of customer support.
Vitaquest also brings expertise in both domestic and international regulatory standards, along with a strong commitment to sustainability. Sourcing sustainable ingredients and utilizing eco-friendly manufacturing processes can enhance brand appeal. Our FDA cGMP compliance, along with third-party GMP certifications from NSF, USP, and others, assures brand owners and consumers that we meet the highest industry standards. Additionally, our ability to provide Kosher, Halal, and certified organic products—along with FSSC 22000 certification for food safety—demonstrates our dedication to manufacturing excellence.
Are you ready to capitalize on the trending market for whey and plant-based proteins? If so, call 800-526-9095 to speak with one of our knowledgeable sales executives or request a nutraceutical manufacturing price quote if you’ve already finalized your project requirements!
Frequently Asked Questions About Plant-Based and Whey Protein
Q: Is plant protein harder to digest than whey?
No. Since plant proteins don’t contain lactose or dairy proteins, which many people have difficulty digesting, they are often easier to digest than whey protein. Even people who have problems digesting beans, peas, and other legumes can enjoy plant proteins because they don’t contain any of the offending sugars.
Q: Does pea protein build muscle like whey?
Human research39Babault N, Païzis C, Deley G. et al. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015; 12:3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5. has shown that supplementation with pea protein promoted increased muscle thickness and was especially good for people starting or returning to muscular strengthening. Furthermore, no difference was seen between the effectiveness of pea protein and whey protein.
Q: What’s the best plant protein?
There are many effective plant proteins. One particularly good one is pea protein which may help with weight loss, promoting muscle growth, and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels already within normal ranges.
Q: Is plant protein inflammatory?
No. Research suggests there was a decreasing trend in inflammatory markers with the consumption of plant proteins compared to animal proteins.40Aycart DF, Acevedo S, Eguiguren-Jimenez L, Andrade JM. Influence of Plant and Animal Proteins on Inflammation Markers among Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2021 May 14;13(5):1660. doi: 10.3390/nu13051660. PMID: 34068841; PMCID: PMC8153567.
Q: What are the downsides to plant protein powder?
There are no real “downsides” per se. Compared to dairy proteins, plant proteins can have a grittier texture and earthier taste, although, over the past few years, suppliers of plant proteins have become more adept at improving the sensory characteristics of those proteins.
References
- 1Whey Protein Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Isolates, Concentrates, Others), Application (Food and Beverages, Animal Feed, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/whey-protein-market-106555.
- 2Plant-based Protein Market. Markets And Markets. Retrieved January 24, 2025 from https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/plant-based-protein-market-14715651.html.
- 3Schlick T. (). Protein Structure Introduction. In: Molecular Modeling and Simulation: An Interdisciplinary Guide. Interdisciplinary Applied Mathematics. New York, NY: Springer; 2010, vol 21. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-6351-2_3.
- 4LaPelusa A, Kaushik R. Physiology, Proteins. [Updated 2022 Nov 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555990/.
- 5Van D Walle G. 9 Important Functions of Protein in Your Body. Healthline. February 15, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/functions-of-protein#:~:text=Protein%20helps%20repair%20and%20build,of%20protein%20in%20your%20body.
- 6Murata K, Nishikaze M, Tanaka M. Nutritional quality of rice protein compared with whole egg protein. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1977;23:125-31.
- 7Murata K, Nishikaze M, Tanaka M. Nutritional quality of rice protein compared with whole egg protein. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1977;23:125-31.
- 8Lusas EW, Riaz MN. Soy protein products: processing and use. J Nutr. 1995;125(3 Suppl):573S-580S. doi:10.1093/jn/125.3_Suppl.573S.
- 9Shanthakumar P, Klepacka J, Bains A, Chawla P, Dhull SB, Najda A. The Current Situation of Pea Protein and Its Application in the Food Industry. Molecules. 2022 Aug 22;27(16):5354. doi: 10.3390/molecules27165354. PMID: 36014591; PMCID: PMC9412838.
- 10Fischer M. What are the benefits of brown rice protein powder? Gainful. November 17, 2020. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://app.gainful.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-brown-rice-protein-powder/#:~:text=Brown%20rice%20protein%20is%20a,resulting%20in%20a%20protein%20powder.
- 11How hemp protein powder is made. The Hemp Blog. Retrieved February 7, 2025 from https://blog.thehempshop.co.uk/how-hemp-protein-powder-is-made/.
- 12Warren CM, Agrawal A, Gandhi D, Gupta RS. The US population-level burden of cow’s milk allergy. World Allergy Organ J. 2022 Apr 21;15(4):100644. doi: 10.1016/j.waojou.2022.100644. PMID: 35539895; PMCID: PMC9046619.
- 13Claessens M, Calame W, Siemensma AD, Saris WH, van Baak MA. The thermogenic and metabolic effects of protein hydrolysate with or without a carbohydrate load in healthy male subjects. Metabolism. 2007 Aug;56(8):1051-9.
- 14Scheiber MD, Rebar RW. Isoflavones and postmenopausal bone health: a viable alternative to estrogen therapy? Menopause 1999; 6(3):233-41.
- 15Baum J, Teng H, Erdman JW Jr, Weigel RM, Klein BP, Persky VW, Freels S, Surya P, Bakhit RM, Ramos E, Shay NF, Potter SM. Long-term intake of soy protein improves blood lipid profiles and increases mononuclear cell low-density-lipoprotein receptor messenger RNA in hypercholesterolemic, postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr 1998; 68:545-551.
- 16The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG Practice bulletin: Use of botanicals for management of menopausal symptoms. 2001 June 20. Accessed March 29, 2006 from http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?ss=15&doc_id=3977&nbr=3116.
- 17Knight DC, Eden JA. A review of the clinical effects of phytoestrogens. Obstet Gynecol 1996; 87:897B904.
- 18Albertazzi P, Pansini F, Bonaccorsi G, Zanotti L, Forini E, De Aloysio D. The effect of dietary soy supplementation on hot flushes. Obstet Gynecol 1998; 91:6B11.
- 19Murkies AL, Lombard C, Strauss BJG, Wilcox G, Burger HG, Morton MS. Dietary flour supplementation decreases post-menopausal hot flushes: Effect of soy and wheat. Maturitas 1995; 21:189B95.
- 20Claessens M, Calame W, Siemensma AD, Saris WH, van Baak MA. The thermogenic and metabolic effects of protein hydrolysate with or without a carbohydrate load in healthy male subjects. Metabolism. 2007 Aug;56(8):1051-9.
- 21Smith CE, Mollard RC, Luhovyy BL, Anderson GH. The effect of yellow pea protein and fibre on short-term food intake, subjective appetite and glycaemic response in healthy young men. Br J Nutr. 2012 Aug;108 Suppl 1:S74-80.
- 22Li H, Prairie N, Udenigwe CC, Adebiyi AP, Tappia PS, Aukema HM, Jones PJ, Aluko RE. Blood pressure lowering effect of a pea protein hydrolysate in hypertensive rats and humans. J Agric Food Chem. 2011 Sep 28;59(18):9854-60.
- 23Babault N, Païzis C, Deley G. et al. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015; 12:3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5.
- 24Joy JM, Lowery RP, Wilson JM, et al. The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance. Nutr J. 2013; 12: 86.
- 25Samsamikor M, Mackay DS, Mollard RC, Alashi AM, Aluko RE. Hemp seed protein and its hydrolysate compared with casein protein consumption in adults with hypertension: a double-blind crossover study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2024;120(1):56-65. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.05.001.
- 26Zhang J, Griffin J, Li Y, Wang D, Wang W. Antioxidant Properties of Hemp Proteins: From Functional Food to Phytotherapy and Beyond. Molecules. 2022 Nov 16;27(22):7924. doi: 10.3390/molecules27227924. PMID: 36432024; PMCID: PMC9693028.
- 27Cribb PJ, Wiliams AD, Carey MF, Hayes A. The effect of whey isolate and resistance training on strength, body composition, and plasma glutamine. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2006;16:494-509.
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