Skip to content

What is Myprotein vegan protein blend?

5 min read

Myprotein's vegan protein blend, a top-selling supplement for plant-based athletes, is made from a combination of pea protein isolate and fava bean protein isolate. This carefully curated mix is designed to provide a complete amino acid profile, essential for muscle growth and repair, making it a powerful alternative to traditional dairy-based proteins.

Quick Summary

Myprotein's vegan protein blend is a plant-based powder combining pea and fava bean isolates to create a complete protein source. It provides essential amino acids and BCAAs, supports muscle maintenance and growth, and is low in sugar and calories.

Key Points

  • Complete Amino Profile: Myprotein's vegan blend combines pea and fava bean isolates to provide all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.

  • Muscle Support: Each serving contains a significant amount of plant-based protein (approx. 22g) and naturally occurring BCAAs, supporting muscle maintenance and growth for various fitness goals.

  • Digestive Comfort: Being dairy and lactose-free, this blend is often easier on the stomach than whey protein, making it suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.

  • Low Calorie and Low Sugar: With approximately 110 calories per serving and low sugar content, it's a convenient and healthy way to increase daily protein intake without excess calories.

  • Versatile Use: The powder can be easily mixed into shakes, smoothies, baking recipes, and oatmeal, fitting seamlessly into various dietary routines.

  • Environmental Benefits: Choosing a plant-based protein like this blend supports a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to nutrition compared to animal-based options.

In This Article

Unpacking the ingredients of Myprotein vegan protein blend

Myprotein's Vegan Protein Blend is more than just a single source of plant protein. It is a scientifically formulated mix that leverages the complementary amino acid profiles of different plant-based ingredients to create a 'complete' protein, similar in quality to animal-based proteins. The primary components of this popular supplement are pea protein isolate and fava bean protein isolate. Pea protein is naturally high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle synthesis. However, it is typically lower in methionine and cysteine. Fava bean protein, on the other hand, helps to fill these nutritional gaps, resulting in a robust, complete protein source. By combining these two isolates, Myprotein ensures its vegan customers receive a comprehensive range of amino acids in every scoop.

The nutritional benefits of Myprotein vegan protein blend

Beyond its complete amino acid profile, the blend offers a variety of nutritional advantages that support fitness goals and overall health. Each serving is designed to be a low-calorie, low-sugar way to boost protein intake, with around 22 grams of protein per 110-calorie serving (based on the strawberry flavor). It also provides naturally occurring BCAAs in an optimal 2:1:1 ratio, which are vital for post-exercise recovery. The inclusion of fava beans also adds a good amount of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help with satiety. For those with dietary sensitivities, the formula is naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, and, in many flavors, free from artificial additives, making it an excellent choice for individuals with lactose intolerance or those looking for a cleaner supplement.

How does it compare to whey protein?

One of the most common questions is how a plant-based blend stacks up against whey protein, the traditional gold standard in sports nutrition. Research suggests that for muscle building, a high-quality vegan protein blend can be just as effective as whey, as long as it provides a complete amino acid profile and is consumed in adequate amounts. While whey protein is known for its fast absorption, studies have shown no significant difference in muscle protein synthesis rates between a plant-based blend and whey when consumed post-resistance exercise. Ultimately, the choice often comes down to personal preference, digestive tolerance, and ethical or environmental considerations. Some people find vegan blends easier on their digestive system, avoiding the bloating and gas associated with lactose in whey.

Potential drawbacks to consider

While the Myprotein vegan blend has numerous benefits, it is important to be aware of its potential downsides, which are common among many plant-based powders. Some users report that the texture can be grainier or thicker than whey protein, and mixability can be a challenge. Some of the flavored versions have also received mixed reviews, with some praising the taste while others find it less palatable than expected. The price point can also be slightly higher than some whey concentrate products, though it is often more affordable than whey protein isolate.

Myprotein Vegan Blend vs. Other Protein Powders: A Comparison

To help you decide, here is a comparison of Myprotein Vegan Blend against other popular protein powder options:

Feature Myprotein Vegan Blend (Pea & Fava Bean) Myprotein Impact Whey Protein Myprotein Soy Protein Isolate
Protein Source Pea and Fava Bean Isolates Whey (dairy) Soy (plant-based)
Completeness Complete amino acid profile Complete amino acid profile Complete amino acid profile, but with lower levels of some amino acids
BCAA Content 5g naturally occurring BCAAs per serving High in BCAAs Moderate levels of BCAAs
Best For Vegans, those with lactose intolerance, environmental consciousness Fast-absorbing protein for muscle growth Those seeking a complete plant protein with low fat and sugar
Taste/Texture Mixed reviews; some find it thick or grainy Generally smoother and creamier Can be neutral tasting; often less sweet than whey
Digestibility Gentle on the stomach for many Can cause issues for lactose-intolerant individuals Generally well-digested, but soy allergies are a consideration

How to get the most out of your vegan protein blend

This versatile powder can be used in a variety of ways to support your daily protein intake. The most common method is mixing it into a shake with water or a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk. For best results and a smoother texture, using a blender or a shaker bottle with a wire whisk is recommended. You can also add it to a morning smoothie with fruit and nut butter for a filling, nutrient-dense breakfast. The powder is also suitable for boosting the protein content of baked goods, pancakes, or oatmeal. For post-workout recovery, consuming a shake within 30 minutes of exercise is ideal, but it can be used anytime to meet daily protein goals.

Conclusion

Myprotein vegan protein blend is a well-formulated, plant-based supplement that provides a complete amino acid profile through its combination of pea and fava bean isolates. It serves as a highly effective and ethical alternative to whey protein for individuals following a plant-based diet or those with lactose sensitivities. While some users report issues with texture and taste, its nutritional quality is strong, supporting muscle growth, maintenance, and recovery. By understanding its ingredients, benefits, and comparing it to other options, consumers can confidently incorporate this blend into their fitness routine.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Myprotein's vegan protein blend contains a combination of pea protein isolate and fava bean protein isolate. This specific mix is formulated to create a complete amino acid profile.

Yes, by blending pea protein (which is high in BCAAs) and fava bean protein, the blend provides a complete profile of the nine essential amino acids, making it comparable to animal protein sources for muscle synthesis.

Yes, since it is a plant-based product derived entirely from pea and fava beans, it is completely dairy and lactose-free, making it an excellent alternative for those with lactose intolerance.

Reviews on taste and texture vary, but many users note that the vegan blend can be grainier or thicker than whey protein, with a slightly earthier flavor. Some flavors are more popular than others, and thorough mixing is recommended.

Yes, research indicates that high-quality vegan protein blends can be just as effective as whey for building muscle, provided you consume a sufficient amount of protein and pair it with resistance training.

For supporting muscle repair and growth, it is recommended to have a shake within 30-60 minutes after a workout. However, you can consume it anytime during the day to help meet your overall protein intake goals.

Myprotein advertises its blend as being free from artificial colors and flavors, though it's always best to check the specific product label, especially for flavored versions, as ingredient compositions can vary.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.