Finding the right protein powder can make all the difference in your recovery, muscle gain, and overall health. We tested and tasted dozens—here are the five standouts.
Photo Credit: Boutayna Chokrane
1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
Best Overall
Why it stands out:
A classic for a reason. With 24g of protein per scoop, a complete amino acid profile, and flavors that actually taste good, this is the industry’s go-to. It mixes easily, works well in shakes or baking, and passes independent purity tests.
Protein per serving: 24g
Protein type: Whey blend (isolate, concentrate, peptides)
Best for: Post-workout, daily use, muscle gain
Taste: Wide flavor selection, not chalky
Price: (approx. BHD 29)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
2. Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Best Vegan Option
Why it stands out:
Plant-based and certified organic, Orgain offers 21g protein per serving from pea, rice, mung bean, and chia. It’s filling, blends creamy, and contains fiber and prebiotics for digestion. Tastes smooth, not gritty—ideal for dairy-free diets.
Protein per serving: 21g
Protein type: Pea, rice, mung bean, chia
Best for: Vegans, lactose intolerance, meal replacement
Taste: Creamy, mild, not overly sweet
Price: (approx. BHD 12)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
3. Vital Proteins Vital Performance Protein Powder
Best Collagen-Based Powder
Why it stands out:
Perfect for those focused on hair, skin, and joint health, this mix delivers 25g protein (including 10g collagen) with NSF Certified for Sport approval. It dissolves well, works in water or milk, and is gentle for sensitive stomachs.
Protein per serving: 25g (10g collagen)
Protein type: Milk protein isolate + collagen peptides
Best for: Recovery, skin/hair/joint health
Taste: Mild vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, cold brew
Price: (approx. BHD 11.5)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
4. Ritual Protein Daily Shake 18+
Best Clean-Label Vegan Shake
Why it stands out:
Traceable ingredients (North American peas), minimal additives, and full Clean Label Project certification. Delivers 20g protein, 8g essential amino acids, 4g BCAAs, and 250mg choline per serving. Soy-free, gluten-free, and eco-conscious.
Protein per serving: 20g
Protein type: Pea protein
Best for: Clean eating, pregnancy/postpartum, daily supplementation
Taste: Subtle vanilla, not artificial
Price: (approx. BHD 18.5)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
5. Naked Micellar Casein Protein
Best Nighttime Protein / Minimalist Option
Why it stands out:
With only one ingredient (micellar casein from hormone-free milk), this slow-digesting powder is perfect before bed. Delivers 26g protein, nearly 50% of daily calcium, and is free from sugar, sweeteners, or additives. A little harder to mix, but worth it for purity.
Protein per serving: 26g
Protein type: Casein
Best for: Overnight recovery, slow release, minimalists
Taste: Unflavored or mild chocolate/vanilla
Price: (approx. BHD 38)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Comparison Table
Protein Powder | Type | Protein/Scoop | Flavors | Price (BHD) | Best For | Rating |
Optimum Nutrition | Whey blend | 24g | 15+ (vanilla, choc etc) | 29 | All-around, muscle gain | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Orgain Organic Vegan | Plant (pea/rice/chia) | 21g | 10+ (vanilla, choc etc) | 12 | Vegan, meal replacement | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
Vital Proteins | Collagen + milk isolate | 25g (10g coll) | 4 (vanilla, choc, etc.) | 11.5 | Recovery, joint/skin/hair | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ritual Daily Shake | Pea | 20g | 1 (vanilla) | 18.5 | Clean/traceable, daily use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Naked Casein | Casein | 26g | 3 (unflav, vanilla, choc) | 38 | Slow-digest, bedtime, purity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
PowerUp City’s Take:
For pure muscle building, stick with Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey.
For plant-based diets or digestion issues, go with Orgain or Ritual.
Need better recovery for skin and joints? Vital Proteins is your pick.
Want the cleanest, slowest-releasing protein? Naked Casein before bed.
Tip: Always check for allergens and artificial additives to suit your personal nutrition goals. For best results, mix with your favorite milk or smoothie base and experiment with flavors!
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