In this article, we list the best vegan protein powders that don’t contain xanthan gum. We will also provide a short overview of what xanthan gum is and why some people choose to avoid it. So, if you’re looking for a vegan protein powder that is free from xanthan gum, keep reading!
In this article:
- What Is Xanthan Gum?
- Why Do Protein Powders Have Xanthan Gum?
- The Top 3 Vegan Protein Powders Without Xanthan Gum
- The Bottom Line: Making a Decision
1. What Is Xanthan Gum?
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide that is produced by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. This gum has many industrial and commercial uses, including as a food additive.
It is often used as a thickener or stabilizer in products such as salad dressings, sauces, and protein powders. In addition, xanthan gum can be used as an emulsifier to keep oil and water from separating products such as mayonnaise. It is also used in some kinds of toothpaste and mouthwash.
Xanthan gum has a number of other industrial uses, as well. For example, it is sometimes used in drilling muds to increase viscosity and prevent fluid loss. It can also be used as a binder in foundry sands, and as a flocculant in water treatment.
2. Why Do Protein Powders Have Xanthan Gum?
Xanthan gum is added to protein powders for several reasons. First, it helps thicken the powder and gives it a smoother texture. Second, it helps the powder mix more easily with water or milk. Finally, xanthan gum can help slow down the absorption of protein, which can be beneficial for those who want to build muscle mass.
However, this latter reason can also be a reason why some people choose to avoid xanthan gum. Xanthan gum is a soluble fiber that creates a gel-like substance in your digestive system, which can slow down digestion and nutrient absorption. When it comes to a pre or post-workout shake, most consumers are interested in the exact opposite – to refuel and replenish their body as fast as possible.
There are some potential side effects associated with xanthan gum, such as gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating. However, these side effects are typically mild and go away quickly. Overall, xanthan gum is considered safe for most people.
Still, some people choose to also avoid Xanthan Gum when looking for the cleanest possible product, with as few fillers and additives.
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3. The Top 3 Vegan Protein Powders Without Xanthan Gum
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3.1. Garden of Life Organic Vegan Sport Protein
If you’re looking for a high-quality, organic vegan sport protein powder, look no further than Garden of Life’s Organic Vegan Sport Protein. Made without any added sugars, filler ingredients, or artificial sweeteners, this protein powder is perfect for those who are health-conscious and want to make sure they’re getting the most out of their workout recovery.
Ingredients:
Organic Performance Protein Blend: Organic Pea Protein, Organic Sprouted Navy Bean, Organic Sprouted Lentil Bean, Organic Sprouted Garbanzo Bean, Organic Cranberry Protein (seed);
Organic Flavor Blend: Organic Vanilla Flavors, Organic Stevia Extract (leaf), Sea Salt,
Organic Recovery Blend: Organic Apple (fruit pulp), Organic Tart Cherry (fruit), Organic Turmeric (root), Organic Blueberry (fruit), Organic Lycium barbarum L. (Goji Berry fruit);
2 Billion CFU Bifidobacterium lactis Bl-04 (at the time of expiration).
Highlights:
- Protein: 30g per 42g portion (71% protein)
- Carbohydrate: 7g per 42g portion (17% carbs)
- Organic
- No added sugars, sweetened with Stevia
- All natural ingredients and no fillers
- Probiotics
- 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon and thousands of reviews
3.2. Vivo Life Perform Vegan Protein Powder
Vivo Life is a UK-based company that makes clean, vegan-friendly protein powders and other supplements. Their ‘Perform’ line includes 6g of BCAAs in every portion and is free from fillers, artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors.
Ingredients (Acai and Blueberry Flavor):
Bio-Fermented Yellow Pea Protein, Cold Pressed Hemp Protein, Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine, Freeze Dried Acai Berry, Freeze Dried Blueberries, Freeze Dried Beetroot Powder, Turmeric Extract, 95% Curcuminoids, Ginger Extract, Papain, Peppermint Leaf, Fennel Seed, Natural Blueberry Flavour, Konjac Fibre, Stevia Extract, Pink Himalayan Salt.
Highlights:
- Protein: 25g per 38g portion (66% protein)
- Carbohydrates: 4.2g per 38g portion (11% carbs)
- No added sugars, sweetened with Stevia
- All Natural Ingredients and no fillers
- 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon and hundreds of reviews
3.3. Dr. Schulze’s SuperProtein Plus
Dr. Schulze’s SuperProtein Plus is made from all-natural ingredients, and it contains no isolated proteins, no flavoring, and no sugar. It is also high in Vitamin B-12, which provides the energy you need to power through your workout and your day.
Ingredients:
Organic Brown Rice, Organic Green Pea, Organic Spirulina Algae, Organic Chlorella Broken-Cell Algae, Organic Raw Cacao Bean, Organic Acerola Cherry, Organic Barley Grass, Organic Alfalfa Grass, Organic Wheat Grass, Organic Blue-Green Algae, Organic Purple Dulse Seaweed, Organic Rose Hips, Tocopherols (Palm Fruit), Organic Lemon Peel, Organic Orange Peel, Organic Beet Root, Organic Spinach Leaf, Non-Fermentable Nutritional Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), Organic Raw Cinnamon Bark.
Highlights:
- Protein: 20g per 27g portion (74% protein)
- Carbohydrates: 2g per 27g portion (7% carbs)
- Organic
- Unflavored
- Vitamin B12
- All Natural Ingredients and no fillers
- 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon
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4. The Bottom Line: Making a Decision
If you purchase something through one of our affiliate links, we may receive a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay in any way. Thank you for supporting our website!
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Sport Protein is the best overall option for a vegan protein powder without Xanthan Gum. It has an established reputation with thousands of positive reviews. It is organic, made without any filler ingredients, and also has added probiotics as a bonus.
Vivo Life Perform Vegan Protein Powder is another great option for those looking for a clean, simple ingredient list with purposeful ingredients. Their ingredient list also features anti-inflammatory ingredients to aid with recovery.
Dr. Schulze’s SuperProtein Plus is a great organic option if you don’t mind an unflavored supplement. It contains high quantities of Vitamin B12, which can not only help you replenish your reserves of this vitamin, but also give you an energy boost.