Our ReviewNo CowProtein Powder
No Cow Protein Powder is a plant-based protein powder aimed at providing a high-protein option for those looking to avoid dairy, soy, and gluten. It features a protein blend of pea and brown rice protein, offering 21 grams of protein per serving. With a low-fat content (2.5g per serving) and only 1g of sugar, this powder is designed to fit into a variety of diets, including those focused on low-carb or low-sugar intake. The inclusion of soluble corn fiber contributes 6g of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and satiety. It's suitable for vegans and those looking for a clean, simple protein source that avoids common allergens.
Ingredients
The ingredients in No Cow Protein Powder are a thoughtful blend that caters to the growing demand for plant-based, allergen-friendly protein options. The protein source comes from a combination of pea protein and brown rice protein, which is a well-balanced mix commonly used in vegan protein powders. Pea protein offers a good amino acid profile, especially rich in BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), which are essential for muscle recovery and growth. Brown rice protein complements pea protein by filling in the amino acid gaps, particularly lysine, making the two together a complete protein source. For plant-based users, this is a crucial aspect since getting a complete amino acid profile can sometimes be a challenge.
In addition to the protein blend, the product uses a sweetener blend of erythritol and stevia. These are natural sweeteners, commonly chosen for their zero-calorie content, but they can be a bit divisive. While erythritol is a sugar alcohol known for being gentler on blood sugar levels, it can sometimes cause digestive discomfort for sensitive individuals. Stevia is a plant-derived sweetener, and while it’s a better alternative to artificial sweeteners, some people may find it has a slightly bitter aftertaste.
The inclusion of soluble corn fiber is another highlight, contributing to the powder’s high fiber content (6g per serving). Fiber is essential for digestive health and satiety, so it’s a nice addition for those looking to stay fuller longer after consuming their protein shake. It’s also low in net carbs, making it a potential fit for low-carb dieters. The coconut milk powder adds a bit of healthy fat and creaminess to the texture but might not be suitable for individuals with coconut sensitivities.
The absence of artificial flavors and preservatives is a big win for those who prefer cleaner labels. The product also includes gums such as guar gum and xanthan gum, which are thickeners and stabilizers. While these are generally recognized as safe, some people with sensitive stomachs may prefer to avoid them, as they can sometimes cause bloating or digestive discomfort.
Finally, it’s worth noting that while the ingredient list is overall strong, there are a few areas where this protein powder could improve. The product doesn’t include any digestive enzymes, which would be a useful addition to aid in the breakdown and absorption of plant proteins, especially for those who find plant-based proteins harder to digest. However, overall the ingredient quality is solid for a vegan protein powder, especially for those prioritizing allergen-friendly and clean labels.
Effectiveness
When it comes to effectiveness, No Cow Protein Powder delivers well on its promise to provide a plant-based, dairy-free protein source. Each serving packs in 21 grams of protein, which is a solid amount for those looking to meet their daily protein intake or boost post-workout recovery. The combination of pea protein and brown rice protein ensures that users are getting a complete amino acid profile, something often lacking in single-source plant proteins. Pea protein is particularly rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are vital for muscle repair and growth.
However, it's worth noting that the protein content by weight comes in at 49%, which is on the lower side compared to other protein powders. Many competitors in both the plant-based and whey protein categories offer powders with a protein content that approaches, if not exceeds 70% by weight. This lower protein density might not be ideal for users who are focused on getting the most protein per gram, as nearly half of the product consists of non-protein components like carbohydrates, fiber, and other ingredients. For those seeking a protein-dense option, this could be a limiting factor.
For those concerned about digestion, plant proteins like pea and brown rice tend to digest slower than whey protein, but this isn’t necessarily a drawback. In fact, the slower digestion rate could make this product more effective for those looking to maintain satiety between meals or as a meal replacement option. Additionally, the inclusion of soluble corn fiber (6g of fiber per serving) further supports digestive health and helps promote a feeling of fullness, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals aiming to manage their appetite or maintain weight.
From a macronutrient perspective, the product is well-rounded. The low-fat content (2.5g per serving) and minimal sugar (only 1g) make it suitable for those following low-fat or low-sugar diets. The net carbs sit at a moderate level, with 16g per serving, but this is offset by the 6g of dietary fiber, making it relatively low in net carbs overall—an appealing factor for anyone mindful of their carbohydrate intake. Given that the product also contains no added sugars and uses erythritol and stevia as sweeteners, it’s an attractive option for those watching their sugar consumption without sacrificing taste.
In terms of overall effectiveness, this protein powder is designed primarily for vegans, vegetarians, and individuals avoiding allergens like dairy and soy. For its target audience, it performs well, providing a clean source of protein that supports muscle maintenance and recovery. However, the absence of digestive enzymes is something to consider, as some individuals may experience mild digestive issues with plant proteins. The addition of enzymes would improve the product’s digestibility, particularly for people who find plant-based proteins harder to break down.
Taste
The Vanilla flavor of No Cow Protein Powder comes across as pretty sweet right off the bat, thanks to the stevia and erythritol. It might feel a bit too much at first, especially if you’re not used to these types of sweeteners. However, as you keep drinking, the sweetness does mellow out, particularly when mixed with almond milk. That combination really helps smooth out the flavor, making it creamier and more enjoyable. On the other hand, mixing it with just water gives the flavor a thinner, less satisfying profile.
In terms of texture, it does come across as a little bit chalky, which is something you come to expect with plant-based proteins. However, using almond milk definitely helps, giving it a smoother, more pleasant feel. It's not as silky as whey protein, but for a vegan option, it's decent.
As for mixability, it's generally fine with a shaker bottle, though you might encounter some clumps if you don’t shake it well enough. Water seems to require a bit more effort to get everything to dissolve smoothly, while almond milk does a better job blending it all together. If you use a blender, though, you’ll get the best results—thicker, creamier, and just overall nicer to drink.
Compared to other plant-based proteins, the Vanilla flavor leans toward a more artificial taste, ironically due to the natural sweetener combo. It’s not terrible, but it doesn't have that natural vanilla richness you might be looking for. That said, it works well in smoothies or when mixed with extras like peanut butter or fruit to balance out the sweetness. On its own, though, it may not be the first choice for someone who wants a more subtle vanilla flavor. Still, if you're used to vegan protein powders, it's pretty standard—nothing too shocking, but also nothing too unpleasant.
We should note that while we were not overly impressed with the vanilla flavor, we have heard better reports of the chocolate flavor.
Value
When evaluating the value of No Cow Protein Powder, it’s clear that it falls short in some key areas, particularly when comparing it to other plant-based protein powders at a similar price point. One major factor is its relatively low protein content of 49% by weight, which is significantly lower than many alternatives. Competing products often provide a higher protein density—some exceeding 70% protein by weight—making them more efficient for users looking to maximize their protein intake per scoop.
Additionally, many other vegan protein powders in the same price range include added benefits, such as digestive enzymes, which help improve the digestion and absorption of plant-based proteins. This is especially important for people who may find certain plant proteins harder to digest. The absence of these enzymes in No Cow means users might not experience the same ease of digestion, which is a significant consideration for those who value these added features.
While No Cow does offer a clean, allergen-free formula that is appealing to those with dietary restrictions, it lacks the extra components that would make it more competitive in its market. Products that include not only a higher protein percentage but also performance enhancers, probiotics, or even superfood blends can often be found at comparable prices, making No Cow’s value proposition somewhat less compelling.
For individuals who are primarily concerned with avoiding allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten, No Cow remains a solid choice due to its simplicity and clean label. However, for those focused on getting the most protein or additional functional benefits for their money, there are more competitive options available. Products that combine a higher protein content with digestive aids or extra nutrients provide better overall value for consumers in the same price bracket.
Conclusion
No Cow Protein Powder Vanilla offers a clean, plant-based option for those who prioritize allergen-free, dairy-free, and soy-free ingredients. While it meets the needs of vegans and individuals with dietary restrictions, the product’s 49% protein content by weight is lower than many alternatives in its price range. Compared to competitors that offer higher protein densities along with added benefits like digestive enzymes, No Cow’s value becomes less competitive. The absence of such extras makes it a more basic option, suited primarily for those seeking simplicity in their protein powder.
For users focused solely on avoiding allergens, No Cow is a reasonable choice, providing a balanced nutritional profile with low fat and sugar content, as well as the added benefit of 6g of fiber per serving. However, for those looking to get more protein per gram or added digestive support, there are other plant-based protein powders on the market at similar price points that offer better overall value and functionality.
Where to buy?
The protein matrix includes the primary protein components included in this product. These protein sources are listed in order of volume from greatest to least in the product.
This diagram provides the digestion profile for the protein types contained within this product. The chart plots the digestion of the included protein types over an hourly timeframe. All profiles have their advantages depending on your goals. More information regarding digestion and timing can be found in our guides.
The cost indicators provide a relative cost comparison with all protein products. The lower the score the better!
The "Product Cost Indicator" provides the comparative product cost, as a whole.
The "Protein Cost Indicator" provides a comparative cost based on only the protein component. While this can be useful for comparing products excluding fillers, many additional ingredients can provide additional benefits and value.
Note: Products that serve a dual purpose, such as mass gainers and ketogenic powders don't include the "Protein Cost Indicator".
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