Whey Protein – Is it Suitable for Vegans?

Is whey protein vegan? What can vegans do to increase their protein intake? The Free Soul team weighs in on some whey protein FAQs for those on a vegan diet.

Looking to up your protein intake on a vegan diet?

You may have come across whey protein supplements and wonder if they’re vegan. You may even be wondering whether vegans can have protein powder at all.

Luckily for you, we have the answers.

One of our most asked questions here at Free Soul is, ‘Is whey protein vegan?’ In short; no, it’s not. Why? Unfortunately, Whey Protein is made from cow’s milk, meaning it contains animal products and therefore isn’t suitable for vegans. It is, however, suitable for vegetarians.

What is Whey Protein Powder?

Protein-rich foods include chicken, fish, eggs and cheese (amongst many others) - many of which, as you’ve probably realised, aren’t necessarily vegan-friendly.

Whey Protein powder serves the same purpose as these protein-rich foods, it’s just easier, quicker and sometimes cheaper to consume.

It’s made from whey (the liquid part of cow’s milk that is separated during the production of cheese), which is isolated as it passes through a number of processing steps to form the powder many of us enjoy in our protein shakes.

But, if vegans can’t have whey protein powder, can they have protein powder at all?

Can Vegans Have Protein Powder?

Whilst whey isn’t a vegan-friendly protein powder, there are alternatives out there suitable for those who follow plant-based diets. These include powders made using pea protein and hemp protein.

At Free Soul, our Vegan Protein Blend is a complete, plant-based protein blend formulated using quality pea protein isolate and white hemp protein. It’s a vegan-friendly protein powder that can be mixed with water (or your fave plant-based milk) and contains no animal or dairy products at all.

Plus, as our vegan protein powders have been created with the needs of women in mind, we then blend an additional number of key nutrients, vitamins and minerals to support hormone balance, mood and energy.

In short, products that utilise whey protein aren’t vegan, but alternatives like pea and hemp mean vegans can still easily supplement protein into their diet.

If you’re looking to boost the amount of plant-based protein in your diet, why not give our vegan protein powder or vegan protein bars a go, for a hassle-free way to increase your protein intake & improve your wellbeing!