Protein powders can make all the difference in your fitness and wellness journey. Whether for muscle growth, supporting recovery after exercise, or aiding in weight loss and management, protein powders may be the very best staple supplement to add into your diet. With so many high-quality powders available in Canada, finding the right fit has never been easier.
Top Canadian Vegan Protein Powders
1. Iron Vegan Athletes Blend
Price range: CAD $54.99-$64.99 for 30-serving container (CAD $1.83-$2.17 per serving)
Protein content: 30g per serving
Main protein sources: Organic sprouted whole grain brown rice protein, organic fermented pea protein isolate
Complete ingredients: Organic sprouted whole grain brown rice protein, organic fermented pea protein isolate, natural flavors, xanthan gum, stevia leaf extract, monk fruit extract, sea salt
Available flavors: Natural Vanilla, Double Chocolate, Natural Unflavored
This Canadian powerhouse brings something unique to the table with its fermented pea protein, which can improve digestibility and nutrient absorption. With 30g of protein per scoop and no artificial sweeteners, it’s become a favorite among Canadian athletes. Among premium protein powders, the natural vanilla is subtle enough to blend with anything but flavorful enough to enjoy with just water.
2. Prairie Naturals VegeTerra
Price range: CAD $44.99-$49.99 for 25-serving container (CAD $1.80-$2.00 per serving)
Protein content: 25g per serving
Main protein sources: Yellow pea protein isolate
Complete ingredients: Yellow pea protein isolate, organic coconut sugar, natural chocolate flavor, cocoa powder, stevia leaf extract, monk fruit extract, xanthan gum
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Unflavored
Proudly made in British Columbia, VegeTerra offers an impressive 25g of protein in each serving with no added sugars. What makes this one special among plant-based powders is its incredible mixability – seriously, just a quick shake with water and it’s smooth as silk! The unflavored version is my go-to for adding to savory recipes like soups and veggie burgers.
3. Botanica Perfect Protein
Price range: CAD $49.99-$59.99 for 20-serving container (CAD $2.50-$3.00 per serving)
Protein content: 20g per serving
Main protein sources: Organic sprouted brown rice protein, organic quinoa sprout, organic amaranth sprout
Complete ingredients: Organic sprouted brown rice protein, organic coconut MCT oil, organic quinoa sprout, organic amaranth sprout, organic vanilla flavor, xanthan gum, organic stevia leaf extract, digestive enzyme blend (amylase, protease, lipase, cellulase, lactase)
Available flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Unflavored
4. Genuine Health Fermented Vegan Proteins+
Price range: CAD $44.99-$54.99 for 20-serving container (CAD $2.25-$2.75 per serving)
Protein content: 22g per serving
Main protein sources: Organic fermented pea protein, organic fermented brown rice protein
Complete ingredients: Organic fermented protein blend (organic fermented pea protein, organic fermented brown rice protein), organic coconut sugar, natural vanilla flavor, organic vanilla extract, organic stevia leaf extract, xanthan gum, organic guar gum
Available flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Natural
Genuine Health brings the power of fermentation to their protein powder, which helps break down proteins for easier digestion and absorption. This Toronto-based company has created one of the smoothest plant powders on the market. The fermentation process also reduces bloating and digestive discomfort that some people experience with regular plant powders. Their vanilla flavor is incredibly smooth and creamy – you’d never guess it’s plant-based!
5. New Roots Herbal Vegan Protein
Price range: CAD $39.99-$49.99 for 25-serving container (CAD $1.60-$2.00 per serving)
Protein content: 24g per serving
Main protein sources: Organic yellow pea protein, organic brown rice protein, organic hemp protein
Complete ingredients: Organic yellow pea protein isolate, organic brown rice protein, organic hemp protein, organic natural vanilla flavor, organic stevia leaf extract, xanthan gum
Available flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Unflavored
6. NIYAMA Clean Plant Protein
Price range: CAD $38.99-$50.99 for 28-serving container (CAD $1.39-$1.82 per serving)
Protein content: 20g per serving
Main protein source: Organic pea protein (from Canadian-grown organic yellow split peas)
Complete ingredients: Organic pea protein (from Pisum sativum), calcium (carbonate), sodium bicarbonate, magnesium (oxide), phosphorus (proteinate), potassium (phosphate, monobasic), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), beta-carotene, vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol), niacin (niacinamide), pantothenic acid (D-pantothenic acid), zinc (gluconate), iron, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), vitamin B1 (thiamine), folic acid (folate), biotin, iodine, chromium (picolinate), vitamin K1, selenium, vitamin D3, vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin), natural vanilla or chocolate flavour, monk fruit extract, xanthan gum
Available flavors: Natural Vanilla, Natural Chocolate
Where to buy: Amazon.ca, Well.ca, Popeye’s Toronto, The Detox Market Canada, Goodness Me!, Natural Food Pantry, Marché TAU, independent health food stores across Canada, and NIYAMA Wellness official website
This Canadian woman-owned brand from Toronto has created something special with their fermented pea protein. Sourced from Canadian grown, organic yellow split peas, this plant protein offers a complete amino acid profile, similar to whey. Fermented to make it super easy to digest with no gas or bloating. Sweetened only with pure, natural monk fruit extract for the best taste possible without sugar or stevia. What sets NIYAMA apart from other protein powders is their commitment to clean ingredients – no stevia, no artificial sweeteners, and packed with added vitamins and minerals. Customers consistently praise its smooth texture and natural taste, noting it doesn’t cause bloating like other powders and mixes beautifully into liquids. At only 100 calories per scoop with 1.5g carbs, it’s perfect for those watching their macros.
Pea-Free Canadian Protein Powders: Alternatives for Those with Sensitivities
Many vegan protein powders rely heavily on pea protein as their base, but this can be problematic for those with pea allergies, sensitivities, or simply a dislike for the taste. Here are some excellent Canadian pea-free powders:
1. Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah! Max Protein
Price range: CAD $24.99-$29.99 for 15-serving container (CAD $1.67-$2.00 per serving)
Protein content: 20g per serving
Main protein source: Organic hemp protein
Complete ingredients: Organic hemp protein, organic coconut sugar, organic vanilla flavor, organic stevia leaf extract, xanthan gum, sea salt
Available flavors: Unsweetened, Vanilla, Chocolate
Where to buy: Walmart Canada, Loblaws/Real Canadian Superstore, Sobeys, Metro, Canadian Tire, Costco Canada, health food stores across Canada, Amazon.ca, Well.ca, Vitasave.ca, and Manitoba Harvest’s official website
For a completely pea-free option that’s also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, Manitoba Harvest offers this pure hemp protein powder made right here in Canada. Hemp provides a complete amino acid profile and has an earthy, nutty flavor. The texture is a bit more grainy than some powders, but it adds a satisfying richness to smoothies and baked goods. The unsweetened version is particularly versatile for both sweet and savory applications.
2. Sprout Living Epic Protein Pro (Available in Canada)
Price range: CAD $54.99-$64.99 for 20-serving container (CAD $2.75-$3.25 per serving)
Protein content: 28g per serving
Main protein sources: Organic sprouted brown rice protein, organic sprouted quinoa protein
Complete ingredients: Organic sprouted brown rice protein, organic sprouted quinoa protein, organic coconut sugar, organic vanilla flavor, organic monk fruit extract, sea salt
Available flavors: Vanilla Lucuma, Chocolate Maca
Where to buy: Whole Foods Market Canada, independent health food stores, Natural Food Pantry, Amazon.ca, iHerb Canada, Vitasave.ca, and select specialty wellness retailers
While not manufactured in Canada, this premium option is widely available across Canadian health stores and offers a sophisticated pea-free blend. Unlike standard protein powders, the sprouting process enhances digestibility and nutrient absorption. The Vanilla Lucuma flavor has a subtle caramel-like sweetness from the superfruit lucuma, while the Chocolate Maca provides earthy richness with energizing properties from the maca root.
3. Sequel Naturals Vega Sport Performance Protein (Rice-Based)
Price range: CAD $49.99-$59.99 for 18-serving container (CAD $2.78-$3.33 per serving)
Protein content: 30g per serving
Main protein source: Organic sprouted brown rice protein
Complete ingredients: Organic sprouted brown rice protein, organic natural vanilla flavor, organic stevia leaf extract, sea salt, organic guar gum, organic vanilla extract
Available flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate
Where to buy: Save-On-Foods, London Drugs, independent health food stores (especially in BC), Amazon.ca, Vitasave.ca, Well.ca, and Sequel Naturals’ official website
This Vancouver-based company offers a premium rice-based protein that’s completely free from peas. The sprouted brown rice provides all essential amino acids and has undergone a special fermentation process to improve digestibility. The texture is remarkably smooth for a rice protein powder, and the vanilla flavor is clean and not overly sweet. This is an excellent option for athletes who need to avoid peas but still want high protein content per serving.
DIY Homemade Protein Powder Alternatives
For those who prefer complete control over their ingredients or want to save money, making your own protein-rich powders at home is surprisingly easy! While homemade versions won’t have the concentrated protein content of commercial powders (typically 8-15g per serving vs. 20-30g), they offer whole food nutrition and can be customized to your exact preferences.
Basic Homemade Protein Powder Base Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw hemp hearts
- ½ cup raw pumpkin seeds
- ½ cup raw sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
Instructions:
- Toast the pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds in a dry pan for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden (this improves digestibility and flavor)
- Let cool completely
- Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor
- Blend on high for 2-3 minutes until you achieve a fine powder consistency
- Sift through a fine mesh strainer and re-blend any larger pieces
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months
Protein content: Approximately 12-15g per ¼ cup serving
Cost: About CAD $0.75-$1.00 per serving
Flavor Variations
Chocolate Version: Add 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
Vanilla Spice: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla powder, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg
Green Superfood: Add 1 tablespoon spirulina or chlorella powder
Protein Boost: Add 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast for extra B-vitamins and a cheesy flavor
Canadian Ingredient Sourcing
Where to buy ingredients in Canada:
- Bulk Barn: Best prices for nuts, seeds, and cocoa powder
- Costco Canada: Great bulk prices for hemp hearts and chia seeds
- Loblaws/No Frills: Decent selection of nuts and seeds in the health food aisle
- Local farmers markets: Often have fresh, locally-sourced pumpkin and sunflower seeds
- Online: Amazon.ca, Well.ca, or direct from Canadian suppliers like Manitoba Harvest
Simple Seed & Nut Protein Blend
For an even easier option, try this no-cook blend:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hemp hearts
- ½ cup cashew pieces
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Simply blend until powdery and store. This version has a naturally sweet, mild flavor that works well in both sweet and savory applications, making it one of the most versatile homemade powders you can create.
Tips for Success
Achieving the right texture: A high-speed blender like Vitamix works best, but a food processor can work too. Blend in smaller batches for better results when making homemade powders.
Storage: Keep your homemade powder in the refrigerator if you live in a humid climate, or store in a cool, dry pantry. Glass jars work better than plastic for maintaining freshness of your powders.
Usage: Use 2-4 tablespoons per smoothie, or mix into oatmeal, yogurt, or baked goods. The flavor is much milder than commercial powders, so you may need to use more for the same protein boost.
Cost comparison: Homemade versions typically cost 30-50% less than commercial protein powders, plus you get the added benefit of whole food nutrition including healthy fats, fiber, and micronutrients.
Sprouted Option for Enhanced Nutrition
For those wanting to take it up a notch, you can sprout your seeds and nuts before dehydrating and grinding them:
- Soak pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds overnight
- Drain and rinse, then let them sprout for 12-24 hours
- Dehydrate in a dehydrator or low oven (150°F) until completely dry
- Grind as usual
Sprouting increases nutrient bioavailability and makes the proteins easier to digest, similar to what commercial brands like Botanica do with their sprouted powders.
Beyond the Shake: Creative Ways to Use Your Protein Powder
Don’t limit yourself to just post-workout shakes! Try:
- Adding a scoop to your morning oatmeal
- Mixing into pancake or waffle batter for a protein-packed breakfast
- Blending into homemade energy balls with dates and nuts
- Stirring into plant-based yogurt for a protein boost
- Using in baked goods like muffins or cookies (reduce other dry ingredients slightly)
Protein-Packed Recipe: No-Bake Energy Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup nut butter of choice
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or agave
- 2 scoops vegan protein powder (vanilla works best)
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- ¼ cup mini dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up
- Roll into 1-inch balls
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week
Each bite contains approximately 7g of protein, making them the perfect on-the-go snack that combines the convenience of protein powders with whole food ingredients!
Why Go Vegan with Your Protein?
- Easier on digestion – Many people find plant powders are gentler on their stomach compared to whey
- Environmentally friendly – Plants require fewer resources to grow than raising animals
- Naturally packed with nutrients – Many come with added fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients
- Allergy-friendly – Great for those with dairy sensitivities
The Environmental Impact: Numbers That Matter
The environmental benefits of choosing plant protein powders over animal protein are substantial:
Water usage: Producing 1 pound of whey protein requires approximately 100-200 gallons of water, while the same amount of pea protein powders need only 5-25 gallons
Land efficiency: Plant powders require 4-10 times less land than animal proteins per gram of protein produced
Carbon footprint: Plant powders generate approximately 5-10 times fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to animal-based protein powders
Biodiversity preservation: Choosing plant protein powders reduces demand for livestock farming, which is a leading cause of deforestation and habitat loss
By choosing vegan protein powders, you’re not just fueling your body—you’re helping to fuel a more sustainable planet!
The Bottom Line
The plant-based protein market has come a long way, and these Canadian brands are proving that you don’t need animal products to get quality, great-tasting powders made right here at home. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to meet your daily protein needs, there’s a Canadian vegan option out there that will work for your taste buds, your body, and your budget.
When comparing environmental impact, a 2021 study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that producing plant-based powders generates approximately 70-90% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than whey protein production. By choosing Canadian-made vegan powders, you’re not only supporting local businesses but also reducing transportation emissions compared to imported options.
Canada’s protein powder industry has really stepped up its game, with companies like Iron Vegan, Botanica, and Genuine Health leading the charge in innovation and quality. Supporting these Canadian brands means supporting local jobs, shorter supply chains, and powders specifically formulated for the Canadian market.
Remember, the best protein powder is ultimately the one you’ll actually use consistently. Try starting with sample packets if available before committing to a full tub. Your perfect Canadian plant protein match is waiting for you!
Have you tried any of these Canadian brands? Or do you have another favorite Canadian vegan protein powder I missed? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or supplement regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.
“Being whole food, plant-based is a pattern of eating that’s quite free. It’s really not exclusionary. It’s just sticking as close to nature as possible.” Dr. Dawn Mussallem
