Why Plant Based Protein is Gaining Popularity

2-3 min read

Plant-based proteins are on the rise with new exciting flavours popping up everywhere. What was previously just consumed by the diehard vegan, is now for everybody. Proteins derived from plants are becoming more popular with many people looking to boost their protein intake whilst the usage of animal sourced proteins reduces. So, why are consumers looking for alternatives to animal based proteins and should you consider the plant-based alternatives?

Allergens and Intolerances

One of the main reasons, comes down to common allergens or intolerances to animal sourced proteins like whey and casein and consequently this can impact upon protein absorption. According to research conducted by Roy Morgan between 2011 and 2015, lactose intolerance could be on the rise in Australia. The study found that the number of adults reporting lactose intolerance had risen by 1.2% up to 4% of the population. 

Whether this is due to more sufferers becoming aware of their symptoms, it’s clear that there’s a growing proportion of the Aussie population struggling with lactose.

Even if you only have a mild intolerance, drinking a whey protein shake after a workout could easily upset your stomach and cause bloating. For many people, they just try and accommodate these side-effects, but if there’s an alternative that won’t disturb your body’s equilibrium, wouldn’t you take it?

In addition to being lactose-free, many plant-based protein options are free from most other potential allergens too. For instance, our Pea Protein Isolate is free from eight of the most common food allergen including milk, eggs, shellfish, wheat, fish, soy, tree nuts and peanuts.

Essential Amino Acids and BCAAs Are Still High

One concern people have is that plant-based proteins don’t have the same level of EAAs and BCAAs as whey. This is true for some plant based protein powders such as rice protein, which is usually mixed with pea protein to ensure that it covers all EAAs. Our Belgium pea protein and Australain hemp protein are good alternatives to whey, as they are still rich in all the EAAs and BCAAs and you don't need to blend them with another vegan protein to get the benefits.

Environmentally Friendly

Another reason to people choose plant-based proteins is that they’re more environmentally friendly than the protein from animal sources. As we become more environmentally aware, plant-based protein consumption will continue to increase as animal based proteins decrease. 

Cows are known to produce methane which has a negative effect on the climate, and studies have shown methane in the atmosphere is rising, so if you are serious about the environment we have a great selection available with Hemp, Pea, Pumpkin, Soy and Sacha Inchi Protein Powders all ready to go plus Complete Plant Protein a blend of Aussie Hemp, Aussie Pumpkin and Belgium Pea Proteins; all organically flavoured.

Would you like to give plant-based proteins a try? If so, take a look at our Plant Based Protein Powders and pick one that suits you.