9 Best Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners in 2023 [Including Canada]

Protein powder without artificial sweeteners

Most protein powders today, especially the popular ones, are often made with many artificial ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, to improve the taste and flavor of the protein powder. Artificial sweeteners are synthetic sugar substitutes, that taste like sugar, but with little to no calories. Several artificial sweeteners that are commonly used include saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, neotame, and acesulfame potassium.

Unfortunately, these added artificial sweeteners may not be suitable for many people due to food sensitivities, allergies, or personal preferences. Not to mention, The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released new conditional guidelines recommending “against the use of non-sugar sweeteners to control body weight…” as recent findings from a systemic review suggest that long-term use of artificial sweeteners may increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Hence, protein powders without artificial sweeteners or natural protein powders are becoming increasingly popular, as they provide all the benefits of a traditional protein powder without the added junk.

A protein powder without artificial sweeteners typically contains very few ingredients and is sometimes sweetened with natural sweeteners such as monk fruit or stevia extract. However, I recommend choosing a protein powder with no sweeteners to keep your sugar consumption low- especially if fat loss is your primary goal.

In this article, we will explore protein powders that do not contain artificial sweeteners, so you can make an informed decision about your protein supplement without compromising flavor or quality.

With all that said, here are the nine best protein powders without artificial sweeteners!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Each product is thoroughly reviewed and I only recommend products I would use myself.

Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners

1. Isopure Unflavored Whey Protein Isolate

Isopure Unflavored Protein is your go-to solution for protein needs without the added junk. Packed with 25 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate per serving, and 5.67g of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA’s), this powder helps with muscle growth and recovery. Not to mention, it has only 100 calories and zero carbs, making it an ideal choice for folks watching their calories or going keto.

This unflavored protein powder is free from artificial sweeteners and great to add to any meal or beverage for your maximum protein intake. Isopure Unflavored Whey Protein Isolate is enriched with vitamins and minerals and is gluten, and lactose-free, which is great if you are gluten or lactose sensitive.

Nutrition Facts: 100 calories | Protein 25g | Carbs 0g | Fat: 0g | Sugars 0g | 5.67g of BCAAs| 16 servings |

Pros
  • High quality protein
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Gluten-free and Lactose free
  • Mixes well and versatile
  • Available in Canada
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Not Vegan Friendly
  • Doesn’t taste too great

2. Naked Nutrition Pea Protein

Naked Nutrition Pea Protein powder is an excellent choice if you are looking for a plant-based protein powder without artificial sweeteners. Made with only one ingredient, Yellow pea protein isolate, is free from any added ingredients such as sweeteners, flavors, and colors, and is excellent to support all your fitness and dietary needs.

Each serving contains 27 grams of protein, 5.7 grams of BCAAs for optimal recovery and performance; 120 calories, 2 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of sugar, making it great for those that are on a low-carb diet. This protein powder is great to add to any drink, meal, or any of your favorite baked goods.

Whether you’re looking to build lean muscle, maintain a clean diet, or simply increase your daily protein intake, Naked Nutrition Pea protein powder is the perfect choice for the best plant-based protein powder without artificial sweeteners.

Nutrition Facts: 120 calories | Protein 27g | Carbs 2g | Fat: 2g | Sugars 2g | 5.7g of BCAAs| 76 servings |

Pros
  • High quality protein
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Gluten, Lactose and Dairy free
  • Mixes well and versatile
  • Easily digestible
  • Vegan Friendly
  • USA Made
  • Available in Canada
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Some mention the taste isn’t the best

3. Raw Grass Fed Whey

With a focus on quality, Raw Grass Fed Whey protein is sourced from 100% pure grass-fed whey, sourced from small, sustainable farms in the US. The cows are raised without the use of hormones, antibiotics, steroids, or genetically modified feed, ensuring a cleaner and healthier protein powder for your fitness and everyday needs.

Raw Grass Fed Whey protein powder is processed at low temperatures, with no acid or bleach, preserving its natural ingredients and ensuring a high-quality powder and taste.

Each serving contains 21 grams of protein, along with 2 grams of carbs, 2 grams of natural sugars, and only 97.5 calories. In addition, Raw Grass Fed Whey is unflavored and unsweetened, with no added sweeteners, preservatives, or fillers. It’s pure and simple, allowing you to customize your protein shake or smoothie to your liking.

This protein powder is ideal if you are on a low-calorie diet, but may not be suitable if you have lactose sensitivity.

Nutrition Facts: 97.5 calories | Protein 21g | Carbs 2g | Fat: 1g | Sugars 2g | 90 servings |

Pros
  • High quality protein
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Gluten, Lactose Free
  • Mixes well and versatile
  • Easily digestible
  • Smooth and Creamy texture
  • Low calories
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Not suitable for Vegans

4. Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate Powder

Made from 2 simple ingredients, Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate Protein Powder is another great protein powder to make the list of protein powders made without artificial sweeteners, that can help you achieve your fitness goals.

This fast-digesting protein powder is packed with 26 grams of protein, along with of BCAAs, making it great to use in a post-recovery drink or meal, as it mixes well without any clumps.

In addition, each serving only contains 110 calories, 0 grams of carbs, and 0 grams of sugar, which is perfect to add to a low-carb, low-sugar diet.

Bulk Supplements does third-party testing on all their whey protein products to ensure compliance standards, consistency, and overall quality.

Nutrition Facts: 110 calories | Protein 26g | Carbs 0g | Fat: <1g | Sugars 0g | 30 servings |

Pros
  • Great taste
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Gluten and Soy Free
  • Fast digesting
  • Price
Cons
  • Not suitable for Vegans

5. NOW Sports Nutrition Whey Protein Isolate

Made with a high-quality protein that is both bioavailable and easily digested, NOW Sports Nutrition Whey Protein Isolate is a protein powder made without the non-sense and free of artificial sweeteners.

This protein powder is made with two simple ingredients: whey protein isolate and sunflower lectin. Each serving has 25 grams of whey protein isolate, and BCAA’s to support muscle recovery and growth after each workout session.

Because it’s unflavored, this means you can enjoy a clean, natural, and clump-free protein shake without any unwanted additives. However, this also means that you will need to mix in your favorite fruits for a better taste.

No matter how you add this protein powder to your diet, you won’t regret it.

Nutrition Facts: 110 calories | Protein 25g | Carbs <1g | Fat: 0.5g | Sugars 0g | 81 servings |

Pros
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Independent testing
  • Fast digesting
  • High-quality protein
  • USA made
Cons
  • Not suitable for Vegans
  • Texture and Taste

6. TGS 100% Whey Protein

The Good Stuff 100% Whey Protein is the perfect choice for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. This unflavored and unsweetened protein powder is designed to provide you with all the benefits of whey protein without any artificial additives or fillers. With its low-carb and low-calorie formula, it’s a great addition to your low-carb diet.

It contains only two ingredients, is packed with 25g of protein and no contains no added sugars, fillers, artificial colors, flavors, additives, or preservatives. It’s also soy-free, gluten-free, stevia-free, growth hormone-free, and GMO-free. Produced in the USA and exclusively sourced from USA farms, ensuring top quality.

TSG 100% Whey protein is excellent for improving your overall fitness levels, building and maintaining lean muscle, or managing weight. With its low-calorie content, it’s an ideal addition to weight loss plans, meal replacement shakes, and even your morning coffee.

Nutrition Facts: 130 calories | Protein 25g | Carbs 2g | Fat: 2g | Sugars 2g | 5.4g of BCAAs|

Pros
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Low carb
  • Fast digesting
  • Great taste
  • USA made
Cons
  • Not suitable for Vegans
  • Not completely tasteless

7. Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein

The Garden Of Life Raw Organic Protein powder is packed with benefits to help you reach your fitness goals and maintain a balanced diet.

With 22 grams of complete plant-based protein, 4g of a complete branched-chain amino acid profile and 120 calories in each serving, this artificial ingredient-free protein powder is great as a pre and post-workout drink.

It’s not only easy to mix and silky smooth. Mix it with water, blend it in smoothies, or add it to your baked goods for a protein boost that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Lastly, this protein powder is USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, Kosher, and NSF Certified Gluten-Free.

Nutrition Facts: 120 calories | Protein 22g | Carbs 2g | Fat: 2.5g | Sugars 0g | 4g of BCAAs| 16 servings |

Pros
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Quality plant-based ingredients
  • Fast digesting
  • Third party certified
  • Vegan friendly
Cons
  • Price
  • Some reviews advised of a poor taste

8. Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein

Each scoop of Levels Unflavored Whey Protein delivers a powerful punch of 25g of protein, 5.6g of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), and zero added sugars. This means you’re getting pure, protein without any unnecessary fillers or additives.

Levels Whey is also free of hormones, GMOs, artificial flavors, sweeteners, and gluten. It’s made with only 100% whey protein powder, keeping it simple and clean. You can trust that you’re fueling your body with a product that prioritizes your health.

Nutrition Facts: 130 calories | Protein 25g | Carbs 2g | Fat: 2.5g | Sugars 2g | 5.6g of BCAAs| 28 servings |

Pros
  • No artificial ingredients or sweeteners
  • Quality Grass-fed protein
  • Gluten and Hormone Free
  • 0 added sugars
Cons
  • Price
  • Some reviews advised of a poor taste
  • Not vegan friendly

9. Opportuniteas Chocolate Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Chocolate Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Opportuniteas is a premium protein powder that offers you the delicious taste of chocolate without compromising on quality. Unlike highly-processed foods, this protein powder is made with real food ingredients such as organic cacao, organic cane sugar, and Himalayan salt, ensuring a high-quality and natural product.

This protein powder is not only delicious but also highly effective. Each serving contains 20 grams of grass-fed whey protein isolate, giving you the energy and strength you need to take your workouts to the next level.

In addition to being artificial sweetener free, Opportuniteas Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate is also non-GMO and gluten-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive stomachs.

Nutrition Facts: 120 calories | Protein 20g | Carbs 9g | Fat: 1g | Sugars 8g | 15 servings |

Pros
  • High quality protein
  • Organic Natural sweeteners
  • Gluten-free and GMO-free
  • Taste great
  • Available in Canada
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Smell
  • Not suitable for weight loss

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are commonly added to protein powders to make them more delicious. These sweeteners are man-made sugar substitutes that provide little to no calories and are used as an alternative to table sugar or refined sugar. Some of the most commonly used artificial sweeteners in protein powders include saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, neotame, and acesulfame potassium. While these sweeteners may make protein powders taste better, they are sometimes the cause of negative side effects.

Benefits of Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners

Choosing protein powder without artificial sweeteners offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it helps in controlling sugar intake, especially for individuals looking to reduce their sugar consumption. Many protein powders contain high amounts of artificial sugars that can negatively impact health. With sweetener-free protein powders, one can still get all the benefits of protein while keeping sugar intake in check.

Moreover, this type of protein powder is also excellent for muscular tissue. This is because it provides the necessary amino acids needed for the maintenance of muscle mass. Artificial sweeteners do not contribute to muscular health but rather, they may add unnecessary calories and may cause other health complications as previously mentioned.

In addition, it’s also an excellent alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate certain sweeteners in their protein powders, or for those that prefer an unflavored or natural taste to combine with other ingredients, enhancing the flavor, without unwanted sweeteners.

What are Natural Sweeteners?

Natural sweeteners are plant-based alternatives to sugar, such as honey, maple syrup, and agave nectar. They should contain some nutrients that sugar does not, but they should still be consumed in moderation. Other options include fruit extracts such as monk fruit or stevia leaf extract. These natural sweeteners add flavor to your protein powder without adding any additional calories.

How to pick the best protein powder without artificial sweeteners

When looking for a protein powder without artificial sweeteners, there are several factors to consider.

Protein Source and Quality

First and foremost, the protein source is crucial. You can choose from plant-based or animal-based protein powders, depending on your preference and dietary restrictions. Plant-based options include organic pea protein, brown rice, or a blend of different plant-based sources. Animal-based options include grass-fed whey protein isolate or concentrate. Grass-fed protein sources are higher in nutrients and may contain fewer hormones compared to conventionally raised animals. Look for products that prioritize third-party testing to ensure high quality and purity.

Amino Acid Profile

Look for products with that have all nine essential amino acids and a complete amino acid profile and a good balance of protein content

Added Ingredients

To avoid unhealthy ingredients, look for products that are free from added sugar, artificial sweeteners, and fillers. There should be a minimal number of ingredients listed on the label so you can ensure you’re getting clean nutrition.

When it comes to sweeteners, it is important to avoid artificial options like acesulfame potassium or synthetic sweeteners. Instead, opt for natural sweeteners like monk fruit extract or stevia leaf extract.

Calories

As with any other food protein powder, it’s important to check the label for calorie content. Look for options that are low in calories and provide a good balance of macronutrients to support your health goals.

Flavor

If you don’t like the taste of plain protein powder, then opt for one of the flavored alternatives, but be sure to read the label to check for natural sweeteners.

What is the daily recommended sugar intake?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults limit their daily intake of added sugars to no more than 10% of their total energy intake. This equates to around 50 grams or 12 teaspoons of sugar per day for an average adult with a daily caloric intake of 2000 calories. However, the WHO also suggests that reducing the intake to 5% or less can provide additional health benefits.

For those looking to meet their daily protein requirements without exceeding their sugar intake goals, protein powders without artificial sweeteners can be a great solution.

Overall, choosing protein powders without artificial sweeteners is a great way to meet your protein needs while staying within your daily sugar intake goals

In conclusion

In summary, when searching for protein powders without artificial sweeteners, it is important to prioritize your health and make informed choices. Artificial sweeteners, such as acesulfame potassium, have been associated with potential negative health effects and may not align with your dietary preferences or restrictions. By opting for protein powders without artificial sweeteners, you can ensure that you are fueling your body with cleaner and healthier options.

When selecting a protein powder, it is crucial to carefully read product labels. Look for key phrases like “no artificial sweeteners” and “natural flavors” to identify products that meet your criteria. Additionally, consider choosing reputable brands that prioritize transparency and quality. Brands like Naked Nutrition and Garden of Life are known for their commitment to using natural ingredients and avoiding artificial additives.

Furthermore, considering products that have undergone third-party lab testing can provide an additional level of assurance. These tests ensure that the product’s claims about protein content, quality of ingredients, and absence of artificial sweeteners are accurate. Brands that undergo third-party testing, such as Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate or Organic Pea Protein Powder, offer peace of mind and confirm the product’s integrity.

By following these guidelines and being mindful of the factors discussed, you can confidently choose protein powders without artificial sweeteners that align with your dietary goals and preferences. Remember to prioritize your health, read product labels, opt for reputable brands, and consider third-party lab testing as you make your protein powder selection.

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  3. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/healthy-diet#:~:text=Less%20than%2010%25%20of%20total%20energy%20intake%20from%20free%20sugars,additional%20health%20benefits%20(7).
  4. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240073616
  5. https://www.who.int/news/item/15-05-2023-who-advises-not-to-use-non-sugar-sweeteners-for-weight-control-in-newly-released-guideline
  6. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240046429
  7. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/artificial-sweeteners-fact-sheet
  8. https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/aspartame-and-other-sweeteners-food

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