Whether you're looking for added nutrition in your daily protein powder or a break from pricey dairy-based proteins, dairy-free protein powders is the smart, cost-effective alternative you need. Bringing added benefits like superior digestibility and stomach comfort, all while matching whey's muscle-building power, switching to dairy-free protein powders might just be the step to take your health and fitness journey to the next level.
In this blog, we break down the advantages of dairy-free protein powders, recommend our top market picks, and dive into other options like protein water and beef collagen protein. Master dairy-free protein know-how below!
Benefits of dairy-free protein powders
We all know the muscle-building benefits of protein powder, but what advantages do dairy-free protein powders have to offer beyond just hitting your protein target? From being gentler to digest, to fitting more dietary needs, to being available at more affordable price points, there's a lot of pros to dairy-free protein powders that might just make switching to them the right move for you.
Easy to digest
One of the biggest differentiators between common whey proteins and dairy-free formulas is their digestibility. Dairy-free options are naturally free from lactose and milk proteins, and therefore are a much better choice for those who struggle with bloating, excessive gas, or just general stomach discomfort around dairy products.
Plant-based proteins such as pea, rice, and soy protein in particular are well-known for being easier on the stomach due to having a simpler ingredient profile than standard whey proteins. They also often use less artificial colours, sweeteners, or thickeners to ease digestibility.
Unique, added nutritional value
Dairy-free proteins can also provide unique added health benefits alongside lean muscle gain and recovery support. Plant-based formulas in particular often blend multiple types of protein to create a more balanced essential amino acids profile, which can in turn, support you with your daily nutritional intake as part of a balanced diet.
They usually provide more fibre, and some products may also contain naturally occurring antioxidants or extra micronutrients like iron. Plant-based protein also tends to be more filling (determined based on calorie count) which can be a solid choice for post-workout recovery and appetite control. These nutritional and ingredient considerations are a huge reason why serious lifters and athletes continue to make the switch to dairy protein alternatives.
Cost-saving
Depending on the brand and formula, some dairy-free proteins can be more budget-friendly, especially if you're after a simple plant-based formula. Single-source proteins like pea, soy, beef, and rice protein are often straight-forward to formulate and therefore, also cheaper to purchase. As dairy prices continue to rise globally, it's only a matter of time before dairy-free, plant-based proteins are cheaper across the board.
What are the best dairy-free protein powder options?
At Elite Supps, we offer a massive range of the best and highest-quality dairy-free protein powders, ranging from vegan proteins to plant-based proteins. Below's our top five that we've noticed our customers love the most.
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100% Vegan Protein by Emrald Labs
Key benefit: Blends four types of plant-based protein to support recovery and improve nutritional balance, as well as promote muscle gains with up to 20.2g protein per serve
Emrald Labs' 100% Vegan Protein is a vegan-friendly protein based on the much beloved 100% Whey Protein formula. Powering your overall wellness as well as muscle gain goals, this protein is derived from four separate protein types to bring as many health benefits as possible. It includes:
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Fava bean protein: Naturally high in fibre to support digestive comfort as part of a balanced diet
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Pea protein: A great natural source of iron
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Hemp protein: Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support general health and wellbeing
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Rice protein: Provides the body with essential fatty acids to support general health and wellbeing
100% Whey Protein also assists with appetite control, contains zero fillers, and is anti-bloating, so you can rest easily and comfortably after your intense workout sessions.
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Power Plant Vegan Protein by Prana ON
Key benefit: Includes digestive enzymes, probiotics, and coconut MCTs to support general health and wellbeing
Prana ON's Power Plant Vegan Protein combines three plant-based proteins to offer a gut-friendly formula that helps you achieve your muscle gain and strength goals with up to 30g protein per serve. Naturally sweetened with stevia and monk fruit, it's a clean formula that also includes digestive enzymes, probiotics, BCAAs and coconut MCTs to support post-workout recovery. Bonus points for its low carb and low fat formula and being made in Australia!
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Peanut Plant Protein by Macro Mike
Key benefits: High protein content with a variety of delicious, original, and completely vegan flavours
Macro Mike's Peanut Plant Protein is derived mainly from peanuts, with supplementation from pea and rice protein. It has a high protein content of up to 25g protein per serve and helps enhance recovery with a super blend of essential and non-essential amino acids (including alanine, glycine, leucine, proline, and more). This protein formula is also low fat and enhances recovery post-workout.
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Vegan Protein by Ghost Nutrition
Key benefits: Full ingredients disclosure so you know exactly what you're putting into your body
Ghost Nutrition's Ghost Vegan Protein is a premium vegan protein blend formulated from pea, organic pumpkin, and watermelon seed protein sources. Containing up to 21g of protein per serve, this protein powder may help support muscle maintenance as part of a regular training routine. Ghost Vegan Protein is hypoallergenic and has fantastic bioavailability which means it's easily digested and absorbed into your body.
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Protein Switch by Switch Nutrition
Key benefits: Vegan protein option with no gritty texture and natural colours. May help support digestive comfort
Australian-made and vegan, Switch Nutrition's Protein Switch contains only 110 calories per serve and is one the most popular vegan proteins currently on the market. It boasts a natural formula with no artificial colours and up to 24g protein per serve. This popular vegan protein blends pea protein, hemp protein, pumpkin protein, watermelon protein, and even algae protein for a complete amino acids blend.
More alternatives to whey protein powders
If you're looking for alternatives to traditional whey protein powders that aren't necessarily dairy-free, these formulas below work almost identically to whey, just with different tastes, textures, nutrients, and price points. More often than not, these alternatives also offer better digestibility, are anti-bloating, and can help you avoid certain allergens.
Almond protein
Almond protein is often a good protein option if you're looking for a lighter and more nutrients-dense protein than standard whey protein powders. It contains more healthy fats and fibre, which can make for a healthy snack shake in between meals. Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, almond protein is a great whey protein alternative for those who want to avoid lactose but don't necessarily want a vegan formula.
Casein protein
While casein protein is usually dairy-based, it is typically easier to digest than whey proteins due to having a slow-release formula, meaning it delivers amino acids over a longer period of time. It's a great option for those looking for a more sustained protein source throughout the day, a more filling option, or overnight recovery support.
Protein water
Protein water is a newer addition to the protein space and is designed for those who want a lighter and more refreshing way to meet their daily protein requirements. Often easy-digesting, low in fat, low in sugar, and a lightweight mix, protein water is great for individuals who aren't a fan of the filling and heavy standard whey protein formulas.
Beef protein
Beef protein is one of the best choices for lifters and athletes who want to avoid dairy, but still prefer an animal-based protein source. Formulated with a complete amino acid profile and containing high levels of protein content per serve, beef protein is a practical option for those who want an alternative to dairy proteins while not switching to plant-based ones.
How to choose the right dairy-free protein powder
Choosing the right dairy-free or whey-alternative protein powder can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you've never tried a dairy-free protein before. But don't worry, we've summed it all up for you in the table below so you can make the best informed choice for your body.
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Protein Type |
Key Benefits |
Considerations |
Examples |
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Plant-based |
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Pea |
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Rice |
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Soy |
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Hemp |
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Nut-based (e.g. Almond, Peanut) |
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Egg white |
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Casein |
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Beef |
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Protein water |
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Our customer reviews of dairy free protein powders
Don't just take it from us, our customers also highly rate their experience with our wide range of dairy-free protein powders. From taste, to texture, to mentioning ingredients like probiotics, digestive enzymes, a complete amino acid profile and lack of artificial sweeteners, have a look at the reviews below to decide for yourself which dairy-free protein powder might be the one to add to your daily stack!
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'Seriously the best vegan protein I've ever tried! The flavour is incredible and the texture is perfect. I've re purchased this product over 5 times now!' - Emilie W (5-star review on Prana On Power Plant Protein)
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'Works great with my IBS and I love the chocolate flavour!' - Meagan B (5-star review on Emrald Labs 100% Whey Protein)
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'My absolute favourite plant based protein! blends so smoothly and works well with my morning coffee, as a stand alone with milk and mixes great with yoghurt for a delicious dessert' - Sayeh A (5-star review on Switch Nutrition Protein Switch)
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'One of my fav vegan protein powders as creamy and mixes with my porridge and pancakes well without being chalky' - Adrienne N (5-star review on Happy Way Protein)
How to use dairy-free protein powder
Dairy-free protein powder is simple to use and you can usually still apply your whey protein shake methods. Simply mix one scoop of protein with water and drink it post-workout or between meals. Use an electric hand mixer or a shaker to ensure your protein powder is completely dissolved before drinking.
For more specific instructions on how to use your dairy-free protein powder, simply refer to the back of your protein packet or tub. If you're still having trouble, get in touch with our customer service team for the best advice!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dairy-free protein powders
Below we answer some commonly asked questions regarding dairy-free protein powders and alternative options to whey protein.
What protein powder is not dairy?
Plant-based and other non-dairy protein powders use source like pea, rice, hemp, soy, and collagen (from non-bovine sources) and avoid milk-derived ingredients like whey or casein entirely. Examples include Prana On Power Plant Protein and Emrald Labs 100% Vegan Protein.
What is the best protein powder for people with dairy allergies?
While the best protein powder depends on a multitude of factors including your taste preferences and health goals, pea protein is considered a great option for people with dairy allergies due to its high digestibility, complete amino acid profile (when blended), and minimal bloating effects.
Can you get dairy free protein powder?
Yes, dairy-free protein powders are easy to find online and in-store in Australia from sites like Elite Supps. They're often available in different servings and flavours.
Is whey protein bad for dairy tolerance?
Whey protein is derived from milk and contains lactose, making it unsuitable for those with dairy intolerance or allergies-it can cause digestive issues like gas or cramps.
What is the best dairy alternative to protein shakes?
Pea-rice blends or hydrolysed collagen protein powders offer similar muscle recovery benefits to whey protein shakes without dairy.
Do all protein powders contain dairy?
No, not all protein powders contain dairy. Vegan and plant-based formulas are specifically designed without it, comprising 20g to 35g protein per serve from sources like peas, rice, soy, or pumpkin seeds.
