I'm all about protein powder these days. It's a great way for a carb-lover like myself to do a better job of rounding out my macronutrition, and now that I'm a lifter, that protein is more important than ever. I definitely play favorites with my protein, though, because when a powder misses the mark, it's difficult to choke down on a regular basis. That's why I gave up VEGA protein powder ages ago - I simply couldn't stomach the flavors. Recently, though, VEGA revamped their recipe and sent me some of their new formula to try. I gave this plant-based protein powder a second chance.
I have to say, the flavors are MUCH more palatable! Originally, the chocolate tasted like dirt and the vanilla struck me as rancid. The newer formula definitely tastes like chocolate and vanilla, thank goodness! Despite the revamped flavor, though, I still found the overall taste to be a little thin and watery, even in my half-sized shaker cup. I've noticed this is a pretty consistent experience among plant-based powders, and wonder if that's just something I should expect in products like this. The mocha flavor smelled like straight-up coffee, and it only took me one sip to realize the scent was a direct reflection of the taste! For coffee drinkers, this is probably the perfect powder, but that flavor is definitely NOT for me!
While the flavors aren't as robust as some of my favorite powders (like my red velvet, review coming soon), VEGA Performance Protein actually packs an excellent nutritional punch. With 30 grams of protein in each serving, it's already a substantial source of recovery proteins, but VEGA has also added other recovery elements like BCAAs, glutamine, and tart cherry, all excellent supplements for enhanced performance and muscle rebuilding. I can deal with a little watery protein if it's going to give me so much additional benefit! And of course, it's plant-based, which fits into many restricted diets.
Give the new VEGA formula a try, you might be surprised. I sure was!
It's pretty delicious. I also love the chocolate flavor of Orgain plant protein which I get at Costco. Sometimes the VEGA one tastes a bit much like stevia, so I like to rotate them out!
ReplyDeleteI strongly prefer the non-plant ones, I just haven't had good experience with plant based protein until this new recipe - but maybe I'm trying the wrong ones?
DeleteDid you mix it with water? I am a coffee lover so I might try the mocha, but what flavor would you recoommend?
ReplyDeleteI usually use water. Sometimes milk, but I'm trying to cut back on dairy (gonna try more almond milk soon). If you like coffee taste, the mocha is probably great! I definitely prefer chocolate over the vanilla too.
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