Pea Protein vs Whey Protein

With so many protein options available it can be impossible to know which to choose. Whether you’re looking for a protein powder to complement your workout or simply help up your daily protein quota, it can be difficult to know where to start looking. Here, we weigh up the difference between two of the most popular, whey and pea, to see how they measure up.

What is pea protein?

A relative newcomer but one that’s quickly growing in popularity, pea protein is a plant-based protein that’s isolated from legumes, most commonly yellow split peas.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of pea protein?

Being plant-based means that pea protein is a great option for anyone with sensitivities or gluten or lactose allergies. It’s also usually much more easily digestible than other proteins and comes without the risk of any digestive discomfort such as gas and bloating. While whey protein contains benefits derived from its milk source, pea protein usually contains more iron than whey, which is important for growth and development and for carrying oxygen to the lungs and muscles. Just like whey, pea protein contains all nine essential amino acids, and although it only contains small amounts of one, methionine, it does contain around three times more arginine than whey, an amino acid which is crucial for the building of muscle. Another advantage of pea is its likely lack of contamination when it comes to heavy metals. Unlike some other proteins such as rice, pea proteins are usually grown in cleaner soils that prevent any such cross contamination.

What is whey protein?

One of the most commonly used protein options on the market, whey protein is made from cow’s milk and is a by-product of cheese-making. For this reason, it contains lactose and is considered an animal-based protein.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of whey protein?

Because it comes from whey it contains calcium and potassium, two minerals that are important for helping move nutrients into your cells and keeping your blood pressure stable. If you’re looking for a protein with a complete amino acid profile (amino acids are the building blocks of protein and we need all nine essential ones to effectively build muscle) then whey protein is a good choice. If, however, you have any kind of intolerance to lactose, then it’s best to steer clear of whey protein as it can cause digestive issues such as bloating and discomfort.

Workshop’s Organic Pea Protein Formula is made from fermented yellow peas and a touch of stevia. 100% vegan and non-GMO it’s a pure source of clean protein that’s low in calories.