Are There Protein Powders That Aren't Sweet?

November 13, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research published in the journal Nutrients, many consumers are seeking alternatives to overly sweet protein powders, which can contain high levels of added sugars or artificial sweeteners. For those who prefer a more natural, savory, or flavor-neutral supplement, the answer to the question "Are there protein powders that aren't sweet?" is a resounding yes. This article will explore the growing market of unsweetened protein powders and innovative ways to incorporate them into your diet.

Quick Summary

This article details the availability of unsweetened and unflavored protein powders, offering insights into various types like whey and plant-based options. It provides creative, savory recipes and highlights key factors for selecting high-quality products without the typical cloying sweetness.

Key Points

Unflavored Options Exist: Yes, many unsweetened and unflavored protein powders are available on the market, offering a neutral taste for maximum versatility.
Choose Your Source: Unsweetened protein powders come in various types, including whey (concentrate or isolate), casein, collagen, and diverse plant-based blends (pea, rice, hemp).
Versatile for Cooking: Unsweetened powders are ideal for adding a protein boost to both sweet and savory recipes, including soups, sauces, baked goods, and dips.
Look for Fewer Ingredients: High-quality unsweetened protein powders typically have minimal ingredients and are free of added sugars and artificial flavors.
Prioritize Third-Party Testing: To ensure purity and safety, choose products that are certified by independent third-party organizations like NSF Certified for Sport.

Navigating the World of Unsweetened Protein Powders

For years, the protein powder market was dominated by flavored options, often loaded with artificial sweeteners and sugars to mask the taste of the raw protein. This left many health-conscious individuals and those with specific dietary needs feeling limited. However, as consumer demand for cleaner, more versatile products has grown, so has the availability of unsweetened and unflavored protein powders.

The Rise of Unflavored Options

Unflavored protein powders are a game-changer for people who dislike the taste of traditional protein supplements or want greater control over their nutritional intake. These products typically contain minimal ingredients, allowing for maximum versatility in the kitchen. Instead of being confined to standard vanilla or chocolate shakes, users can add a protein boost to a wide variety of foods and beverages, both sweet and savory.

Common Types of Unsweetened Protein

Unsweetened protein powders are available in both animal- and plant-based forms to accommodate various dietary preferences.

Unflavored Whey Protein: Made from milk, unsweetened whey protein concentrate or isolate is one of the most common options. It is highly bioavailable, meaning the body can easily absorb and utilize it for muscle repair and growth. While whey concentrate contains a small amount of naturally occurring milk sugar (lactose), isolates are more refined and have less, making them a good option for those with mild lactose sensitivities. A high-quality, grass-fed option will have a clean, neutral taste.
Unflavored Casein Protein: Also derived from milk, casein is digested more slowly than whey. Unsweetened casein is an excellent choice for a pre-sleep snack, providing a steady release of amino acids overnight. Its neutral flavor allows it to blend into recipes like yogurt or pudding without added sweetness.
Plant-Based Blends: For vegans or those with dairy allergies, unsweetened plant-based protein blends are a fantastic alternative. These often combine complementary protein sources like pea, brown rice, hemp, and pumpkin seed to create a complete amino acid profile. A blend can offer a smoother, less "earthy" flavor than a single-source plant protein.
Collagen Peptides: Sourced from animal hides or marine sources, collagen is a tasteless and odorless powder that dissolves easily in hot or cold liquids. It is not a complete protein but is excellent for boosting the protein content of coffee, soups, or stews without altering the flavor.

Creative Ways to Use Unsweetened Protein Powder

Embracing unsweetened protein opens up a world of culinary possibilities beyond the traditional shake. Here are a few ideas:

Savory Soups and Sauces: Stir a scoop of unflavored whey or collagen into a hot bowl of soup, stew, or pasta sauce. It will dissolve and add a nutritional boost without changing the dish's flavor profile. This is especially useful for boosting the protein in vegetable-based soups.
Protein-Packed Baked Goods: Mix an unsweetened powder into pancake batter, muffins, or bread dough. It will increase the protein content and make your baked goods more satisfying, with minimal effect on taste.
Dips and Dressings: Create high-protein dips by blending unflavored protein with ingredients like Greek yogurt, hummus, or mashed avocado. This is a great way to make a healthier, more satiating snack.
Smoothies and Drinks: While the goal is to avoid sweetness, unsweetened powder is the perfect base for naturally flavored smoothies. Use ingredients like unsweetened almond milk, leafy greens, avocado, and spices (like cinnamon or ginger) to create a delicious and satisfying drink without sugar.

Choosing the Right Unsweetened Protein Powder

When selecting a product, it's crucial to read the ingredients list carefully. The best options will have minimal ingredients and be third-party tested for purity. A third-party certification from organizations like NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Choice ensures the product contains exactly what it says it does and is free of contaminants.

Unsweetened vs. Sweetened Protein Powder Comparison


Feature	Unsweetened Protein Powder	Sweetened Protein Powder
Taste	Neutral, allowing for flavor customization. May have a slight taste depending on the source (e.g., earthy notes in plant protein).	Can be very sweet due to added sugar, stevia, or artificial sweeteners.
Versatility	Extremely versatile for savory and sweet recipes, cooking, and baking.	Limited to sweet recipes like shakes, smoothies, and baked goods.
Ingredients	Generally has fewer ingredients and no added sugars or artificial flavors.	Often contains added sugars, artificial sweeteners, thickeners, and flavorings.
Health Impact	Avoids the health concerns associated with excessive sugar and artificial sweetener consumption.	Can contribute to sugar intake, and some artificial sweeteners may cause digestive issues.
Cost	Often slightly cheaper than flavored varieties, especially single-ingredient options.	Price can vary, often higher due to the inclusion of flavorings and sweeteners.

Conclusion

For those asking "are there protein powders that aren't sweet?", the modern market provides excellent, highly versatile options. Unsweetened whey, casein, and plant-based blends offer a clean, additive-free way to meet protein goals. By opting for these neutral alternatives, you can add protein to a wide range of foods, from savory soups and dips to naturally flavored smoothies. Always prioritize third-party tested products and check ingredient lists to ensure you are getting a pure, high-quality supplement that aligns with your health goals.

You can explore highly-rated, unsweetened plant-based protein powders for versatile cooking and baking applications on Bon Appétit.

Frequently Asked Questions

To choose a protein powder that isn't sweet, look for products explicitly labeled 'unflavored' or 'unsweetened'. Carefully check the ingredients list to ensure it does not contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners like sucralose or stevia.

Yes, unsweetened and unflavored protein powder is extremely versatile and can be added to savory dishes like soups, stews, sauces, and dips. It dissolves easily and provides a protein boost without altering the original flavor.

Unsweetened protein powders are available in both animal- and plant-based forms. Animal-based options include whey (concentrate and isolate), casein, and collagen. Plant-based options often use pea, brown rice, hemp, and pumpkin seed proteins, sometimes in a complementary blend.

Unflavored and unsweetened protein powders are often more affordable than their flavored counterparts. The lack of added ingredients like flavorings and sweeteners can reduce manufacturing costs, resulting in a lower price.

To enhance the flavor of an unsweetened protein shake, mix it with natural ingredients. Consider using unsweetened almond milk, fresh fruit (like bananas or berries), nut butters, cocoa powder, or spices such as cinnamon or ginger.

Like any protein supplement, some people may experience mild digestive issues like gas or bloating, especially when first introducing it to their diet. Choosing a whey isolate (for lower lactose) or a sprouted/fermented plant-based protein can help mitigate these effects.

Yes, unflavored protein powder without added sugars is often a safer choice for people with diabetes compared to sweetened versions. It's best to choose a powder with a low carbohydrate count and to consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.