Organic Protein Powder vs. Non-Organic: What To Choose

When it comes to purchasing protein powders, a common consideration is whether organic protein powder is better for you than conventional. The short answer is that there may be no nutritional advantage, but quality does count.

This article will define what organic and non-organic (conventional) mean, use evidence to support why choosing organic may be worth the price for you, and provide helpful information on what to look for when purchasing an organic protein powder.

What Is Organic Protein Powder?

Processed foods like protein powder labeled as USDA organic must not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and their ingredients must be organic, with few exceptions. The USDA seal and certification means that the product is 100% compliant with these standards.

Organic producers primarily depend on natural substances and physical, mechanical, or biologically based farming practices. Plant-based organic protein powder is made with plant ingredients that have not been exposed to prohibited synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Animals that produce milk proteins like whey and casein used in milk-based protein powders cannot be given antibiotics if they are organic. However, they are allowed to be given vaccines.

If protein powder indicates that it is "made with organic whey" or some other ingredient, this means it contains a minimum of 70% organically produced ingredients. The rest of the ingredients are not organic and do not have to comply with the organic production standards. These products won't bear the USDA organic seal but still have to certify with a USDA accredited certifier.

What Is Non-Organic Protein Powder?

Conventional/non-organic protein powder does not have to conform to the same regulations as organic and can be produced with prohibited substances under the organic label. For instance, the ingredients may have GMOs or have been treated with conventional, synthetic or non-organic fertilizers, pesticides, chemicals, and synthetics.

Which to Choose?

Organics are more expensive than conventional, but the investment may be worthwhile. If you are concerned about exposure to synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, choosing organic may be worth your peace of mind.

Some research shows that consistently choosing organic products over conventional is associated with a reduced risk of overweight and obesity for women and men and a lower risk for non-Hodgkin lymphoma in women.

It's important to note that these associations could be due to the circumstances and demographic of individuals who choose organic foods and their other lifestyle habits and factors and not necessarily only due to choosing organic over non-organic.

When looking for organic protein powder, check for third–party testing, organic certification, and minimal ingredients, including flavorings and sweeteners. You'll also want to ensure that it covers your nutritional needs and preferences, such as vegan if you consume a plant-based only diet or dairy-based if you prefer.

Check that the protein powder has the calories and protein content to meet your needs based on your fitness and nutrition goals and aligns with ethical concerns you may have, such as farming practices and sustainability.

A Word From Verywell

Whether you choose organic or non-organic, protein powder is a convenient way to get your daily protein. Selecting an organic protein powder is not necessarily a clear nutritional advantage. Still, other factors may make it an ideal choice for you, despite its typically higher price tag.

Organic protein powder is made without certain prohibited substances and relies on more natural production practices. It also does not contain GMOs. If you are concerned about which protein powder is best for you, consult a registered dietitian for advice.