You may have come across whey protein powders in your quest to build the ultimate physique, but what is it and how does it help?
Whey protein is a supplement that’s been around the block, and chances are that your gym buddies, trainer and everyone else will have their own recommendation of what you should get.
In truth, whey protein work differently per product, and the ‘best’ grass-fed whey protein may be great for some while being ‘meh’ for you.
Also, I’ll talk about why protein from grass-fed cows is better and why you should get more.
The 10 Best Grass-Fed Whey Proteins
These are the 10 best grass-fed whey protein powders on the market today.
#1 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs
Ever since I tried Transparent Labs’ 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate, I have been a fan of the brand. Their product is a prime example of what a grass-fed whey protein should be: pure, minimally processed protein with plenty of beneficial nutrients, and free of GMOs, hormones, and steroids.
ProteinSeries Whey Protein Isolate, offered by Transparent Labs, stands out among the competition. Grass-fed whey protein is already known to have more benefits than regular whey protein, and ProteinSeries Whey Protein Isolate takes it to another level. It’s incredibly potent, and only a select few brands can make this claim.
Let’s dive into the details. Each serving of 100% Grass-Fed contains 24 grams of pure protein, with less fat than an isolate. The protein is sourced from grass-fed cows in the US, ensuring ingredient potency. There are no artificial preservatives, GMOs, coloring, or sweeteners added to the mix, ensuring that you get the best protein supplement possible.
Transparent Labs recently added two new flavors to their product line, Strawberry Cheesecake and Cereal Splash, in addition to Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Salted Caramel, and Mocha. The protein supplement comes in one, two, or three tubs, and the 3-tub order offers the best value and a discount.
Use the coupon code TL10 at checkout to save 10% on your order.
To sum it up, 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs is pure, clean, and effective – the best grass-fed whey protein on the market.
Pros
- Coupon code TL10 saves you 10% on your order
- Has one of the purest whey protein content
- Sourced from American grass-fed cattle
- A subscription can save 10% and get free shipping
Cons
- Free shipping only in USA
- Only available on the manufacturer’s website
#2 Grass-Fed Protein from Gnarly Nutrition
I must admit, Gnarly Nutrition’s grass-fed whey protein supplement has exceeded my expectations. As someone who is quite particular about what I consume, I was impressed to discover that Gnarly uses whey protein derived exclusively from antibiotic-free, non-rBGH grass-fed cow milk. This provides not only a pure source of protein but also added benefits such as Omega 3s and healthy fats.
With 25 grams of protein per serving, Gnarly Whey is precisely what I require for my workouts. However, what truly sets this product apart is the addition of pre and probiotics that support digestion and gut health. Since I began using this protein supplement, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my digestion and overall health.
While mixing this protein with water works fine, I prefer it with milk as it blends smoothly and creates a creamy consistency. I also appreciate that Gnarly offers travel packets, which make it much simpler for me to maintain my nutritional regimen while on the go.
The only drawback is that it only comes in two flavors- vanilla and chocolate, but honestly, both are delicious and satisfying. Overall, Gnarly Nutrition’s grass-fed whey protein supplement is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, effective, and tasty protein supplement.
Pros
- Boasts 25 grams of protein per serving
- Delivers Omega 3 Fatty Acids
- Mixes easy and tastes great
- NSF Content Certified Product
Cons
- Only comes in vanilla and chocolate
#2 Naked Whey
Naked Whey is a straightforward, grass-fed whey protein supplement that offers 100% premium whey protein without any artificial sweeteners or additives.
On Naked Nutrition’s official website, you can learn how whey concentrate is better than whey isolate. Every serving of Naked Whey contains nutritious BCAAs, omega-3s, conjugated linoleic acid, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and beta-lactoglobulin. These additional compounds promote lean muscle growth, reduce fat, and boost the immune system.
I was impressed with Naked Nutrition’s ability to cold-process their whey protein and avoid denaturing. The protein in Naked Whey has greater bioavailability, which means it’s absorbed faster and utilized by the body more efficiently. Better muscle growth, energy, and recovery are just some of the benefits you can expect from Naked Whey.
The whey used in Naked Whey comes from California dairy farms, which is different from whey sourced in the UK, New Zealand, and other places. California’s climate allows for year-round grazing, unlike colder climates. The available flavors include Natural, Strawberry, Vanilla, and Chocolate.
Naked Nutrition offers interest-free payments and savings through newsletter subscriptions. This can help lower costs, especially when you’ve made a long-term commitment.
Don’t be fooled by Naked Whey’s plain appearance – it’s a super potent, grass-fed whey protein powder that comes in a close second to 100% Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate.
Pros
- Sourced from cows in Northern California
- Nothing artificial
- Offers discounts and interest-free installments
Cons
- Above average in price
Related: Grass-Fed Whey Protein vs Regular Whey Protein: What’s the Difference?
#4 Grass-Fed Whey Protein by Promix
When I tried Promix’s Grass-Fed Whey Protein, the taste was the standout feature for me. The Vanilla, Peanut Butter, and Chocolate Peanut Butter flavors were all very creamy and didn’t require any additional milk or sugar – just add ice and water for a delicious and nutritious drink anytime.
Out of all the whey protein concentrates I’ve tried, only a few have made it to my top three, and Grass-Fed Whey Protein by Promix easily makes the cut. If you can’t get your hands on 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate from Transparent Labs or Naked Whey, then Promix’s whey concentrate is a good alternative. They offer a 30-day refund guarantee and follow small-batch measures and third-party testing to ensure transparency.
The whey protein comes from heritage breed cows in North California and undergoes undenatured processing to maximize bioavailability. Promix doesn’t use fillers, GMOs, hormones, gum, soy, antibiotics, gluten, or anything that could hinder your fitness goals. Additionally, the company donates 1% of its sales to environmental conservation.
Each 5 lb. package of Grass-Fed Whey Protein contains 75 servings of protein at 25 grams, along with 5.9 grams of BCAAs, Sunflower Lecithin, and Maple Sugar as a natural sweetener. The flavored options include Raw Cacao and Cocoa for chocolate, and Vanilla and Peanuts for Peanut Butter and Chocolate Peanut Butter.
Overall, Promix’s Grass-Fed Whey Protein is a great choice for those who want a protein drink that tastes amazing. The pure whey content is just the cherry on top.
#5 Grass Fed Whey Isolate by NutraBio
NutraBio’s whey protein supplement provides 25g of unadulterated protein per serving, sourced from animal welfare-friendly, environmentally responsible, Non-GMO, and antibiotic and rBST hormone-free sources. This results in a whey supplement that contains naturally occurring BCAAs, glycomacropeptides, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulins, which aid in muscle growth, recovery, and repair.
NutraBio prides itself on its fully transparent label, which contains no artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. The supplement is available in classic flavors such as Chocolate, Vanilla, Cookies and Cream, as well as a unique flavor, Matcha Latte. Although the product contains no soy, it does include Xantham Gum, and the label does not display information on fat, sugar, and cholesterol content.
The company has a “no compromise” policy, which is evident in their manufacturing processes. The primary factory is based in New Jersey and has been inspected by the FDA. While the company owns Checkmysupps.com, customers can check third-party lab test results for added reassurance.
#5 Raw Grass-Fed Whey by Raw Organic Whey
Product and brand repetitiveness aside, Raw Grass Fed Whey is uniquely packaged and contains only one ingredient- 100 percent organic whey sourced from New Jersey cows. It’s certified USDA organic and free from GMOs, soy, gluten and sugar.
Raw Organic Whey says their cows graze on open fields and constantly feed on grass and clover, which give the product omega 3 fatty acids and essential CLAs. The result is a creamy texture and a decent protein concentration among natural whey supplements.
Each serving gives you 97.5 calories, 40% of your protein needs and dietary fiber. It’s worthy to note that the whey protein is cold processed and made without acid treatment. You only get one flavor though- unsweetened and may need to add in natural sweeteners such as fruit or Stevia to taste.
#6 Pure Whey by Pure Label Nutrition
Pure Label Nutrition offers Pure Whey and Pure Whey Isolate in three flavors- Unflavored, Whey Chocolate and Whey Vanilla and Unflavored, Origin Chocolate and Origin Vanilla, respectively.
The brand touts itself as different as they combine experiential components and science to develop new supplements that work. The founders were two fitness professionals who wanted to make their own supplements due to mediocre market options.
The Arizona-based manufacturer offers grass-fed whey products from pasture-raised and free-roaming cows in the US. The taste is smooth and mixes well even with cold water. The practice of humane cow-raising means you won’t be getting hormones, antibiotics and the stuff you don’t want in your protein drink.
#7 Built By Strength Grass Fed Whey
Strength has packaged their grass-fed whey protein supplement in a menacing 2lb jar and in two flavors- Natural Vanilla and Belgian Chocolate. Each serving gives you 24 grams of protein, 1 gram fat, 3 grams of carbs and 120 calories.
Instead of pure protein, you get a ‘blend’ that consists of whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, Stevia, dextrose, xanthan gum, natural flavors, sunflower lecithin and more. You can view the supplement’s nutrition label by going to their website.
The protein you get from the product may be used to build strength, repair muscles and more. The powder is distilled so that it mixes well with water and gets absorbed by the body faster. The taste is acceptable and you get a whey protein product that’s made in the USA.
#8 Whey+ by Legion Athletics
Whey+ contains whey protein isolate, with 2 to 4 grams of carbs, 0 to 2 grams of fat and 22 grams of protein per serving. Instead of sourcing in the US, you get the protein straight from the farms in Ireland.
The protein powder supplement may be mixed with water and ice, or you can add some milk for extra calories. You can choose from many kinds of flavoring, including Strawberry Banana, Cookies & Cream, Cinnamon Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Mint Chocolate and more. Each package is inspected in an FDA approved facility for utmost freshness and quality.
Legion Athletics has made its ingredients available on their website and even has a blog where they talk about diets and exercises. Whey+ is 100 percent natural and doesn’t contain any fillers, artificial food dyes and other junk.
#9 Organic Whey by Natural Force
Organic Whey is an organic whey protein powder that comes from grass-fed cows. Raw, non-GMO concentrate is sourced from family farms in California and turned into a clean whey supplement for building muscle.
Organic Whey sports a clean flavor and has the necessary immunoglobulins and bioactive peptides. You get 20 grams of protein without soy, sugar and gluten. Each package only contains four ingredients and yet has all the BCAAs you need to achieve your goals.
Choose between Unflavored, Cacao Bean and Vanilla Bean, with free shipping and money-back guarantee when you order thru their website.
#10 Grass-Fed Whey by MusclePharm
Last but not the least, let’s dive into MusclePharm’s Grass-Fed Whey. Now, imagine a team of naturalists, scientists, and athletes huddled together in a quest for that perfect protein shake. They’re not just looking for any protein; they want something clean, natural, and aligned with the goal of building lean muscle mass.
So, where do they turn? They look to healthy cows, living the dream, free-ranging and munching on a lush grass diet. No cramped, unnatural conditions here. The milk from these contented cows then goes through a special process called cross-flow microfiltration. Sounds scientific, right? But it’s all in the name of keeping the protein in a non-denatured form, preserving those valuable amino acids that fuel your muscles.
What you end up with is a hefty 25 grams of protein per serving, free from any artificial coloring, added sugar, and GMO compounds. That’s a winning formula if you ask me. And if you’re worried about fat, gluten, or harmful hormones, you can breathe easy. This powder keeps those at bay.
Now, let’s talk flavor. Chocolate is the star of the show here, and though it’s the only flavor option right now, it’s a solid choice. I mean, who doesn’t love a good chocolate protein shake? Especially when it’s crafted with such care and attention to what’s going inside your body.
Compared to other protein powders, especially flavored protein powders, MusclePharm’s Grass-Fed Whey stands out for its purity and commitment to results-focused nutrition. It’s a clear nod to athletes and fitness enthusiasts who aren’t willing to compromise on quality.
So, whether you’re looking to build lean muscle mass, fuel a rigorous workout, or just enjoy a guilt-free chocolatey treat, this might just be the protein powder you’ve been searching for. It’s a marriage of nature’s best with science’s precision, all bottled up and ready to shake up your fitness routine. How’s that for a game changer?
How We Decided On The Best Grass-Fed Whey
Choosing the best grass-fed whey protein powders is more than just a casual shopping trip. It’s an adventure, filled with twists and turns, and a journey we’ve taken wholeheartedly to find the best there is for you. We spent countless hours researching, exploring, and testing a variety of protein supplements. Why? To give you an honest, reliable list that you can count on.
“What’s the big deal?” you might ask. Well, grab a seat, because here’s the scoop:
Price: It’s not just about slapping down cash; it’s about investing in your body. We searched high and low to find that perfect balance between quality and affordability. We didn’t just look at the price tags; we calculated the cost per serving, scrutinized the packaging, and made sure that your hard-earned money gets you the real deal, not just a fancy container.
Quality Control: This is where the gloves came off. We dove into quality control, wading through lab reports, certifications, and even growth hormones to ensure that what’s on the label is what’s in the tub. It’s a messy world out there, with brands making tall claims, but we were determined to find the ones that could walk the talk. Integrity matters, and we wanted to make sure these brands were selling more than just dreams.
Taste: Life’s too short to choke down bad-tasting protein shakes. We know that you’re looking for something more than just nutrients; you want something that tastes good too. So we ventured into the world of flavored protein powders, tasting and reading through reviews, to find the ones that tickle your taste buds and play nice with other ingredients.
Protein Levels & Amino Acids: Protein isn’t just about bulking up; it’s about building lean muscle mass and fueling your body. We looked for that sweet spot, not too much, not too little, but just the right amount of protein and branch chain amino acids per serving to fuel your workouts without upsetting your system.
Macronutrients: Protein shakes are more than just about protein. Carbs and fats, our unsung heroes, play a part too. We sought out well-rounded nutrient profiles, considering how they’d fit into various diets and preferences. Balance is key, and we wanted to make sure our choices struck it just right.
Digestibility: Nobody wants to feel like they’ve swallowed a balloon. We focused on how these powders sit in your stomach, avoiding anything that might cause discomfort. It’s about nourishing your body, not punishing it.
After all the taste tests, number crunching, and label reading, we’ve come up with a list of grass-fed whey protein powders that we can wholeheartedly endorse. They tick all the boxes for quality, taste, nutrition, and digestibility, and they’re not just about value for money. They’re about investing in yourself.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of top-notch grass-fed whey, pick one from our list, and let’s embark on this journey to better health together. It’s more than just a protein shake; it’s a commitment to yourself, a promise to fuel your gains with nothing but the best. It’s a handshake, from us to you, and a pact to walk this road to wellness side by side. Let’s get started!
How to Choose The Best Grass-Fed Whey Protein
When it comes to choosing a grass-fed whey protein isolate powder, there are a few things you will want to consider. These are:
Protein Amount per Serving: When selecting a whey protein isolate powder, ensure that you are getting an adequate amount of protein per serving. Ideally, it should range from 25-30g, anything below 25g may not be effective, and anything above 30g could be excessive.
Price: Whey protein isolate is a premium protein source and, as a result, more expensive. However, you can use coupon codes and subscriptions to save money. So, while selecting the best product, keep in mind the cost.
Taste: Choose a whey protein isolate powder that tastes great. Although they are usually more palatable than regular protein powders, some manufacturers go overboard with fancy flavors that sound appealing but may not deliver. So, it’s always best to stick with classic flavors like chocolate or vanilla.
Mixability: Another important consideration is mixability. You want a protein powder that mixes smoothly, rather than forming lumps and clumps. The good news is that all the top picks on our list mix up easily and effortlessly, so you won’t have to worry about this.
Why Protein From Grass-Fed Cows is Better
Protein is an essential macronutrient for building muscles and training for maximum athletic ability. Conversely speaking, there are many kinds of protein sources available, and knowing which one is best for you can mean the difference between huge gains and mediocre results.
In bodybuilding, it all boils down to beef-sourced protein, but even then you’ll have two choices- grain-fed or grass-fed cows. So, which one is better?
I’ll tell you now that protein from grass-fed cows is better than their grain-fed counterparts. For one, cows that feed on grain are mostly kept in CAFOs or concentrated animal feeding operations which are unsanitary. Moreover, these animals are pumped full of steroids, hormones and antibiotics, which you definitely wouldn’t want in your protein.
On the other hand, grass-fed cows are free to graze in fields and eat as much as they want. Thus, these cows tend to offer more in the nutritional sense- you get higher CLA, vitamins B and E, omega 3 fatty acids, potassium, magnesium and calcium.
Bottom line is that there’s a huge difference between grain and grass-fed cows, namely their quality and purity. That said, you should always look to see if the whey protein you’re getting is sourced from the grass-fed variety.
Benefits of Getting More Protein
Oh, protein, that powerhouse nutrient we all hear about but might not fully understand. Let’s break it down a bit, shall we?
So, you know when you hit the gym, and your muscles are feeling all the burn? Protein’s the pal that helps rebuild those tired muscles. It’s like the construction crew of your body, repairing what’s worn out and building it back stronger.
But hey, it’s not just for the gym-goers. Protein is essential for everyone. Think of it as the glue holding your body together. Your hair, your nails, your skin – they all need a good dose of protein to look their best.
And let’s not forget energy. If you’re feeling a midday slump, more protein might just be the ticket to powering through. It’s like that strong coffee, but without the jitters.
Want to keep your hunger at bay? Protein’s got your back there too. It’s the friend that tells your stomach, “Hey, we’re good here. No need for those chips.” It helps you feel full, so you’re not rummaging through the pantry an hour after dinner.
Whether you’re lifting weights or lifting kids, running marathons, or running errands, protein’s the buddy you want on your team. It’s not just about muscles; it’s about feeling your best, looking your best, and being your best. Time to embrace the protein love, don’t you think?
When To Take a Protein Powder
Protein is a versatile macronutrient that can be consumed at different times of the day, depending on your health and fitness goals.
For athletes, I recommend taking whey protein isolate immediately after a workout to help rebuild and strengthen muscles. This can also lead to shorter recovery times and more frequent training sessions.
If you’re looking to build muscle and bulk up, the same rule applies. Some studies suggest that taking whey protein before bed can be beneficial, but consuming protein after a workout is still the most important.
Surprisingly, whey protein isolate can also be used as a supplement for weight loss programs and slimming diets. Protein is a natural suppressant, and replacing a calorie-heavy breakfast with whey protein can be a good option.
Always check the instructions and labels on the best whey protein isolate powders to determine when to take them.
Related: Different Kinds of Protein Powder Explained
Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate: What’s The Difference?
Alright, you’ve probably heard these two terms tossed around: whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. They might sound like something straight out of a science lab, but trust me, they’re not as complicated as they seem.
Imagine you and your buddy are at a milkshake bar, and you’ve got two options. One is the all-out indulgent shake, and the other is a lean, mean protein machine. That’s kind of like the difference between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate.
Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC): This is like your classic milkshake. It’s got a bit of everything – protein, fats, carbs, and yes, even some lactose. Typically, it’s about 70-80% protein. It’s tasty, it’s nutritious, and it’s usually a bit friendlier on the wallet. Great for those who want a more “whole-food” approach.
Whey Protein Isolate (WPI): Now, this is your lean, mean option. It’s processed a bit more to remove almost all the fat and lactose, leaving you with about 90% or more protein. It’s like stripping down to the bare essentials. Faster absorption, more protein per scoop, but usually a bit pricier. It’s the go-to for those who are lactose intolerant or looking for a low-carb option.
Think of WPC as your casual, everyday hangout buddy, and WPI as your specialized training partner. Both are great, both have their perks, but they’re tailored to different needs.
So next time you’re eyeing that tub of protein powder, you’ll know what’s what. Whether it’s concentrate or isolate, it’s all about what fits your goals and your lifestyle. No more protein confusion, just pure gains and goodness. How’s that for a smooth explanation?
Conclusion
Well, folks, we’ve journeyed together through the ins and outs of grass-fed whey protein powders, and let me tell you, it’s been an eye-opener. It’s not just about gulping down protein; it’s about what goes into that powder and how it can really transform your nutrition and overall health.
Going natural with grass-fed whey isn’t just a trend. It’s about feeding your body the good stuff and really feeling the difference. You know that tingly sensation when something just feels right?
That’s what I’m talking about. It’s a well-rounded nutritional feast that’s tailored to your body’s needs.
Now, I’ve been around the whey block a few times, and if you’re looking for my top picks, look no further than 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate by Transparent Labs or Naked Whey.
These bad boys are in a league of their own, setting the bar high in protein purity and transparency. And don’t just take my word for it; thousands of positive reviews back up these claims.
So, if you’ve been on the fence, now might be the time to make the switch. Give them a try, feel the difference, and embrace a new way of fueling your body. After all, isn’t it time we gave our bodies what they truly deserve?
Here’s to making smarter, healthier choices and to a future filled with gains, naturally. Cheers!
Ryan is a former college wrestler and fitness fanatic who specializes in supplements for building muscle. He has written for online publications like TheAthleticBuild.com and FitnessTopFives. He is also an expert lawn mower and has been known to slay apple pie with little regard for his own safety. Hit him up on Linkedin below so he feels the love.