For many people, the amount of protein consumed with meals and snacks alone might be enough to meet their daily requirements. However, individuals living more active lifestyles will likely benefit from incorporating a protein powder into their routine. Consuming protein powders like hemp protein and whey can help maintain strength, steady energy and build and repair muscle. While each protein powder works in unique ways, they all have one goalproviding you with the nutrition needed to remain healthy and strong. Keep scrolling if you're interested in learning more about plant based powders like hemp protein and dairy-based powders like whey. This article will provide an overview of the benefits of these two powders and what makes them so different.
What Is Whey Protein?
Milk contains two types of proteins: casein and whey. Whey protein is a mixture of proteins formed when cheese is produced. During cheese production, the proteins in milk begin to separate and form milk coagulate and a watery liquid known as whey. Once it's isolated, whey is processed to become whey protein powder. Whey protein powder can be added to shakes, meal replacements, protein bars, oatmeal and so much more.
What Is Hemp Protein?
Hemp protein powder is created by grinding the seeds of the hemp plant. Depending on the powder produced, the hemp seed may be defatted to create a concentrated form of protein known as isolate or kept in its complete form with the essential fatty acids still intact. Most protein powders are made with the complete form of hemp seeds and are rich in heart-healthy fatty acids.
Choosing the Right Protein Powder
There are several things to take into consideration when choosing a protein powder. First, you'll need to account for dietary restrictions, ingredients, protein quality and cost. With so many options, choosing the right powder ultimately boils down to your body's unique needs. And once you find a protein that fits your dietary needs, you'll want to consider the taste. Taste is an essential part of choosing the right protein powder because no one wants to consume something they don't like. Luckily there are several protein powders on the market, whey and hemp protein being two of the most popular. Whey's subtle taste and texture make it a favorite amongst individuals looking to gain muscle mass. At the same time, plant based powders like hemp are more suited for individuals following a dairy-free, vegan, or plant based diet. Finally, no matter what type of protein powder you choose, you must pick one with high-quality protein and ingredients.
When to Use Whey Protein (Dairy-Based)
Whey protein powder is one of the best powders available for maximum protein absorption. To meet your protein needs, you can work whey protein powder into muffins, smoothies and even pancakes. Because whey protein is easy for the body to digest and absorb, consuming it can help improve muscle mass and boost overall satiety. When searching for a whey protein powder, stick to those containing minimal ingredients. And stay away from any that contain artificial flavors or fillers. Whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate are popular forms of whey and, when made with quality ingredients, are typically sugar-free and gluten free.
Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder
Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder is made from whey protein concentrate. This high-quality complete protein contains all of the essential amino acids required by the body for strength and muscle development. Incorporating this powder into your weekly meals is an excellent way of increasing protein intake without packing on extra carbs and fat. Our whey is unsweetened and simple and dissolves quickly. Its superior texture is ideal for making protein shakes, smoothies, protein bars and pancakes. Visit our online recipe book to discover some of our favorite whey protein powder recipes.
When to Use Hemp Protein (Plant Based)
Hemp protein is an excellent plant based protein powder for individuals following a dairy-free diet. When choosing any protein powder, you'll want to make sure that it can meet your nutritional requirements. Protein powders like whey are popular because they've been around for a long time. However, when compared nutritionally, hemp protein powder may give whey a run for its money. Hemp protein powder is a high-quality vegan complete protein source. Being a complete protein, hemp contains all nine essential amino acids and fiber, healthy fats and minerals.
Like whey, hemp protein is also easy to digest. Because it is more easily digested, your body can use almost all amino acids for crucial bodily functions, such as repairing, maintaining and building muscle.
Bob's Red Mill Hemp Protein
Hemp seeds are one of the best sources of plant based protein. Our
Bob's Red Mill Hemp Protein Powder is made from high-quality hemp seeds and contains all nine of the essential amino acids. Incorporating this powder into your routine will provide you with a good source of nutrients like fiber and iron and is incredibly convenient when added to smoothies or shakes as a post-workout treat. Work hemp protein into your morning pancake recipe or use it to replace a bit of flour in baked goods. The possibilities are endless!
Benefits of Whey Protein
If whey protein sounds like it might be the perfect supplement for you, it's time to start adding it to your diet. Here are a few of the benefits of whey protein.
Whey Protein Is a Quality Protein
When choosing a quality protein powder, you'll want to check for bioavailability. A bioavailable protein powder is one that your body can easily absorb. For example, whey protein powder is not only bioavailable, but it's something that humans have been thriving on for centuries. Made from cow's milk, when processed, the majority of fat and lactose is removed from the whey, leaving a highly concentrated protein ready for muscle protein synthesis.
Whey Protein Is the Complete Package
Protein is vital to good health, and amino acids are crucial to protein production. Your body relies on amino acids to repair and rebuild muscles, and some of those amino acids it can't make on its own. Whey protein contains all nine essential amino acids that you can only get from your diet, and incorporating it into your meals is the perfect way to ensure that you're meeting your daily requirement.
Whey Protein Is Convenient
You can use whey protein in all kinds of recipes. From smoothies and soups to baked goods, whey protein powder quickly mixes with the ingredients it's combined with for a nutritional boost that won't change the flavor or texture of your dish. For example, use whey protein powder to create a morning smoothie like this
Tropical Breeze Smoothie, or add it to this
Citrus Pound Cake recipe to make a healthy on-the-go snack.
Benefits of Hemp Protein

If you're searching for a plant protein that stacks up against dairy-based proteins like whey, hemp protein is a perfect choice. Here are a few of the many benefits of hemp protein.
Hemp Is a Complete Protein
Like whey, hemp protein is a complete source of protein and contains a pretty impressive amino acid profile. Many plant proteins are not complete protein sources, and ones that are, like soy, can cause problems for those allergic to them. However, hemp protein is a low-allergen food that nearly everyone can enjoy.
Hemp Is a Source of Healthy Fats
Hemp protein is typically less processed than other types of protein powders. Hemp's less processed nature means that it can hold on to many nutrients found in hemp itself, including healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids. A diet rich in omega-3s has several benefits ranging from eye health to heart health.
Hemp Is Gut-Friendly
Hemp protein powder is loaded with soluble fiber, a nutrient that is crucial to a well-working digestive system. Fiber helps promote regularity, increases feelings of satiety and supports the healthy bacteria in your gut. Hemp fiber is an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive stomachs and those looking to improve their gut health.
What to Look for in Protein Powders
Choosing the best protein powder for you depends on your individual needs. When looking at dairy and plant based powders, there are a few pointers to keep in mind. First, a high-quality protein powder is high in protein and low in sugar. Consuming powders that contain added sugar can result in spiked blood sugar levels and hinder your performance, progress and workout results.
In addition to being low in sugar, good protein powders have a short ingredient list. One, two, or three ingredients on a label is ideal, especially when searching for a powder that you can use as a meal replacement.
Now that you know how hemp protein stacks up next to whey, you can better determine which protein powder will work best in your diet. So whether you're searching for a plant based option or one that's incredibly bioavailable, there's a protein supplement for you.