• Protein Source: Pasture raised whey protein concentrate
• Protein Per Serving: 21 grams
• Flavor: Bourbon vanilla, dark chocolate
• Size: 2 lbs

Best With Collagen: Vital Proteins Whey Protein Powder + Collagen Peptides

Why We Love It: With collagen peptides and 24 grams of whey protein isolate, this NSF-certified protein powder is popular to support muscle recovery and joint health goals. “NSF certified for sport is a recognized, credible resource that certifies what is on the label is in the package,” says Pitosky. “That means the product does not contain unsafe levels of contaminants, prohibited substances, or masking agents.” We love that this option includes collagen, too, something nutritionist Mia Rigden, MS, CNS, enjoys getting first thing in the morning by adding to her morning coffee. “Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and makes up our hair, skin, connective tissue, bone, and more,” says Ridgen. However, because collagen lacks amino acid tryptophan, pairing it with a whey protein is a great way to ensure a full amino acid profile.

• Protein Source: Whey protein isolate
• Protein Per Serving: 24g
• Flavor: Chocolate
• Size: 1.4 lbs

Best Vanilla: Ancient Nutrition Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder

Why We Love It: Made with grass-fed whey and organic regenerative A2 milk protein (which comes from cows that produce only the A2 type of beta-casein), this whey protein is great for sensitive stomachs as A2 is a bit gentler on your digestive system and doesn’t produce as much discomfort as the A1 protein found in most cow’s milk. It also includes eggshell membrane collagen, a clinically-studied ingredient that supports joint and connective tissue health. This whey protein powder is not only delicious, but it also blends super smoothly, making it a delight for adding it to a morning smoothie, shake or protein-rich breakfast to help fuel and energize you each day.

• Protein Source: Grass fed whey
• Protein Per Serving: 23 grams
• Flavor: Vanilla bean, milk chocolate, chocolate peanut butter
• Size: 1.31 lbs

Best Unflavored: Naked Whey Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder

Why We Love It: If you’re the type of person where taste and texture can make or break your meal time, this unflavored high-performance whey protein powder may be the solution. Because it’s supremely mixable, you can give anything you bake—cookies, muffins, cake, and more—and instant protein boost. The brand sources from grass-fed cows from tiny dairy farms in Idaho and Northern California and uses a unique, cold processing method to deliver non-denatured whey—which is said to help retain its natural amino acid profile so it’s packed full of nutrients. “Whey protein is rich in essential amino acids which are the building blocks for important structures and functions in the body,” explains Ridgen.