Protein supports muscle growth, helps with recovery, keeps you full longer, and plays a crucial role in everything from immune function to hormone production.
But if you’ve ever glanced at an ingredient panel on one of these bad boys, you’ll know that not all protein powders are created equal. Some are packed with sugar. Others taste like cardboard. And many come with a long list of ingredients you’d rather not Google. So what should you actually be looking for in a protein powder? Let’s break it down.
Complete vs. Incomplete Proteins
First, let’s touch on complete vs. incomplete proteins. Not all protein sources contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs. Animal-based options like whey typically do, which is why they’re often marketed as the gold standard. But certain plant proteins—like pea, rice, chia, and amaranth—can also form a complete protein when combined smartly. That’s the key: diversity of plant sources makes all the difference in a plant-based blend.
Digestability
A protein powder isn’t much use if it leaves you feeling bloated or sluggish. That’s where quality—and formulation—comes in. Whey protein, or even dense plant-based blends, can be difficult to digest for a lot of people.
Some products include enzymes to support digestion and help your body actually use the protein you’re consuming. That’s why, for instance, we made Earthfusion with a blend of alpha-galactosidase, which helps break down complex carbohydrates (especially those in legumes, like pea protein), and bromelain, a natural enzyme from pineapple that assists with protein digestion and can help reduce inflammation. Together, these enzymes not only make the powder easier on your stomach—they also improve nutrient absorption, so you're getting more from every scoop.
Sweeteners and Additives
This is a big one — lots of powders are flavored with artificial sweeteners, gums, or fillers to improve taste and texture. But if you’re trying to support your body, those extras can work against you. Clean-label options with minimal ingredients—and natural, if any, flavoring—are your best bet for daily use.
Bonus Points
If you’re already incorporating protein powder, you might as well get some other fun perks too. We added branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and glutamine to our Earthfusion formula, both of which are crucial for muscle repair and post-workout recovery. BCAAs can help reduce muscle soreness, while glutamine supports immune health and helps your body bounce back faster—whether you're training hard or just managing a busy day.
So Which Do You Pick?
Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — you’re going to want to assess your goals, preferences, and dietary needs to choose the right one for you. That said, it’s always a safe bet to avoid added sugars, artificial flavorings, or overly complicated formulas. You know we have to plug Earthfusion — it combines five plant-based protein sources to form a complete amino acid profile, includes a digestive enzyme blend, and skips the common irritants like dairy, soy, and added sugar. Oh, and there’s BCAAs and l-glutamine for a muscle recovery bonus.
