Vega vs Orgain: A Plant-Powered Protein Punch-Out

Are you ready to rumble? Because I’m throwing our hats into the ring for the great plant-protein bout of “Vega VS Orgain”.

Picking the right protein powder matters

Protein is more than just a gym buzzword, it’s a crucial building block for your body that can assist everything from muscle growth to hair health.

Plus the fitness world is in the midst of a green revolution.

Witness the rise of plant-based diets as vegan protein powders step up and offer a green-friendly, nutritious alternative to the traditional whey protein.

More than ever before, plant-powered protein is fueling our workouts and supporting our recovery. It’s a shift that’s not only good for our bodies but also for our planet.

With so many options available you might be wondering, “Which one’s the best for me?”

Well today I’m here to help you navigate these waters, as we dive deep into the world of two of the biggest-selling vegan protein powders of all time.

Science resources included

As is my custom here on heydayDo, I will provide links to all of the relevant sports science and medical resources, clinical studies, & nutritional data used in this article.

 

About this Vega vs Orgain article

The goal of this in-depth review is simple. I want to give you a clearer picture of these well-rated plant-based powders: Vega Sport Premium and Orgain Organic.

I’m not here to push you towards one product or the other, but rather to provide you with the information you need to make the right decision for your unique needs and preferences.

 

The appeal of Vega Sport

Vega has a great reputation in the protein powder market, mainly because of the care and thought they put into their company values & their formulas, and Vega Sport Premium Protein is no exception.

This particular product combines various plant-based proteins (mostly pea) and a selection of ingredients aimed to support muscle recovery, performance, & your overall health.

 

Why consider Orgain Organic Protein Powder?

Similarly, Orgain brings a strong presence to the market with a focus on simple, clean ingredients. Orgain’s Organic Protein Powder is made from a blend of plant-based proteins, and it stays clear of artificial additives.

The brand’s dedication to an organically-fueled, wholesome nutrition shines through in this product.

 

Vega Sport vs Orgain: the ingredient breakdown

Let’s delve into the key ingredients in Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder and Orgain Organic Protein Powder, highlighting a few of their benefits.

First up are their plant-sourced proteins.

Vega Sport Premium Protein

(Chocolate Flavor)

Pea Protein

Pea protein is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids on its own, while plant proteins like Orgain’s rice & chia need partners to be classified as a ‘complete’ protein.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that pea protein can promote muscle thickness just as effectively as dairy-based proteins when combined with resistance training.

 

Pumpkin Seed Protein

Pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants and a great source of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. These nutrients can support general health and wellbeing.

 

Organic Sunflower Seed Protein

Sunflower seeds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and a range of essential vitamins and minerals. Research indicates they could support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

 

Alfalfa Protein

Alfalfa is high in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These nutrients are necessary for bone health.

 

Orgain Organic Protein

(Creamy Chocolate Fudge Flavor)

Organic Pea Protein

Like in Vega Sport, pea protein provides all essential amino acids. It can be a valuable plant-based protein source, promoting muscle growth and overall health.

 

Organic Brown Rice Protein

Brown rice protein is hypoallergenic and easily digested. Some research, including a 2013 study in Nutrition Journal, suggests that it can be as effective as whey protein in supporting muscle recovery and adaptation to resistance training.

 

Organic Chia Seed

Chia seeds are a nutrient powerhouse, providing fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various essential minerals. They can support digestive health and heart health.

 

Vega Sport Premium’s other key ingredients

Here are the rest of the active ingredients in each of the recipes, starting with Vega Sport’s.

Tart Cherry

Tart cherries contain antioxidants and have been studied for their potential to reduce muscle soreness and promote recovery after strenuous exercise.

 

Probiotics

Probiotics like the Bacillus coagulans in Vega Sport can support gut health, potentially enhancing digestion and absorption of nutrients.

 

Turmeric Extract

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It could potentially aid in post-workout recovery by reducing exercise-induced inflammation, though I’m guessing its dose in Vega Sport is real low.

 

Black Pepper Extract

Black pepper extract can enhance the absorption of other ingredients, such as curcumin from turmeric.

 

Orgain Organic Protein Powder

Organic Hemp Protein

Hemp protein is a valuable plant-based protein source that also provides fiber and a variety of essential minerals.

 

Organic Acacia Gum

Acacia gum, or gum Arabic, is a natural gum made of the sap of acacia trees. It’s a source of soluble fiber that can support gut health.

 

Organic Guar Gum

Guar gum is a fiber derived from guar beans. It can contribute to feelings of fullness and support digestive health.

 

Organic Inulin

Inulin is a type of dietary fiber that can act as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

 

Vega vs Orgain: the Nutrition Facts showdown

Ready to take a closer look? Macronutrients don’t lie. So, let’s discover what’s really going on under the hood.

PROTEIN –

If you’re on a quest for maximum protein intake, Vega Sport Premium Protein jumps way ahead with an impressive 30g of protein per serving – nearly 50% more than Orgain Organic’s 21g.

The potential for muscle growth and recovery sparks bright with Vega Sport, considering the greater fuel it provides for the muscle synthesis engine in your body.

 

CALORIES –

The additional protein in Vega Sport does come with a slight calorie bump, tallying up to 180 calories per serving compared to Orgain’s leaner 150 calories.

Yet the difference could be viewed as negligible, especially when considering the ratio of protein to calories.

 

PROTEIN %

Speaking of “considering the ratio of protein to calories”, let’s go look at that very important though little-known stat.

“Why is this important?”, you may wonder.

This number tells you (the protein powder buyer you) how much of what you’re paying for in your protein powder is actually protein. And how much of it is other stuff.

To get to it, just divide the grams of protein by the serving size.

Orgain Organic Protein Powder – 21 grams / 46 grams = 46% protein.

Vega Sport Premium Powder – 30 grams / 44 grams = 68% protein.

ADVANTAGE: Vega.

 

CARBOHYDRATES –

Now for those carb-conscious among us, Vega Sport elegantly waltzes into a spotlight of its own. With only 6g of carbs per serving (& only 4g net carbs), it carries a low-carb banner proudly, contrasting sharply with Orgain’s much larger 15 grams.

Vega Sport shows it’s a good choice for the low-carb enthusiasts and keto followers.

 

FAT –

While the sight of zero fat on Orgain’s label may initially seem enticing, a closer look reveals that Vega Sport’s 4g of fat per serving is actually heart-healthy. How?

It’s sourced from nutrient-rich pumpkin and sunflower seeds, and these seeds are a treasure trove of good fats. This nuance paints a subtly different picture, putting Vega Sport on the higher ground.

 

SUGAR AND FIBER –

Both powders are similar with their sugar and fiber content. Each has 2g of fiber, with Vega Sport bearing 1g of sugar against Orgain’s sugar-free claim.

However, it’s worth saying that Orgain uses 5g of erythritol, a sugar alcohol, which for some might pose a digestive dilemma or other health considerations.

So that adds an extra layer to the sugar comparison.

 

SODIUM –

Sodium levels in these two may get your attention, particularly if you’re on a salt-restricted diet. Both powders lean towards the higher end, especially Vega Sport, with its 370mg per serving.

Orgain is slightly less at 290mg, but this aspect might become a factor for those keeping a close eye on their sodium intake.

 

OTHER NUTRIENTS –

Each product offers various amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron, and potassium.

While these aren’t major differences between the two, they contribute to your daily nutrient needs and should be taken into consideration in your overall diet.

 

Nutrition summary

You know, unpacking the nutritional makeup of Vega Sport and Orgain really shows how different they can be, even though they’re both plant-based protein powders.

I’m sure you can see that it’s not just about getting a vegan protein powder, it’s also about how it fits into your daily goals.

Maybe you’re keeping an eye on carbs, or perhaps good fats are on your checklist. Either way, it’s about finding what works for you.

We’ve walked through the nutrition route together, compared the scenic stops along the way, and now you’ve got the map in your hands.

I like Vega’s big edge in the protein, fat, carbs, & sugar alcohols departments.

But remember, it’s your journey. It’s about your health, your choices, and the paths you choose to reach your unique fitness goals.

 

Comparing essential amino acids

The nine Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) are indispensable because our bodies cannot produce them: we must obtain them from our food.

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder delivers a total of 12.2 grams of EAAs per serving. The EAAs in Vega Sport, listed with their specific amounts, are as follows:

• Histidine: 0.5g
• Isoleucine: 1.3g
• Leucine: 2.6g
• Lysine: 2.4g
• Methionine: 0.3g
• Phenylalanine: 1.3g
• Threonine: 1.2g
• Tryptophan: 0.3g
• Valine: 1.6g

On the other hand, Orgain Organic Protein Powder also provides all nine EAAs but with a total of 9 grams of EAAs per serving. The EAAs in Orgain, with their respective amounts, are:

• Histidine: 0.4g
• Isoleucine: 1.0g
• Leucine: 2.0g
• Lysine: 2.2g
• Methionine: 0.2g
• Phenylalanine: 1.1g
• Threonine: 1.0g
• Tryptophan: 0.2g
• Valine: 1.1g

ADVANTAGE: Vega. 

 

BCAAs in Vega Sport and Orgain

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are three of the EAAs: leucine, isoleucine, and valine.

For active vegans, BCAAs can be difference-makers because the vegan diet is typically low in one or more of those 3 BCAA.

How important are they? Well for starters they help promote muscle recovery and reduce exercise-induced fatigue.

And they can even help stimulate protein synthesis — the process of lean muscle growth — when they’re part of a diet that also features their other siblings in the EAA fam.

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder boasts an impressive 5+ grams of BCAAs per serving, while Orgain Organic Protein Powder offers just 3g.

ADVANTAGE: Vega.

 

Summary of EAAs and BCAAs in Vega Sport and Orgain

In summary, both Vega Sport and Orgain deliver all nine EAAs. However, Vega Sport provides over 35% more, with 12.2g per serving, while Orgain contains 9g.

When it comes to BCAAs, Vega Sport again has the upper hand with 5g compared to Orgain’s 3g.

Depending on your protein and amino acid requirements, you might find Vega Sport’s higher content beneficial.

Taste – Vega Sport Premium Protein

When you wonder “Does Vega Sport Protein taste good?”, there’s a resounding “Yes” echoing from countless positive reviews. I can vouch for this too, since I drank two 2 lb. cans of it over the period of a couple months.

Available in a nice variety of five flavors — Chocolate (the one I know), Vanilla, Berry, Mocha, and Peanut Butter — Vega Sport Premium offers you variety alongside quality.

Nice chocolate

Vega’s chocolate-forward taste earns a thumbs up from me & applause from many other buyers. It manages to achieve a smooth, easy-to-mix texture, an accomplishment in the realm of vegan proteins often plagued by a certain grittiness.

Lotsa stevia tho’

But one minus for me & a few other folks is that we find the stevia content “over the line”. Too strong a stevia vibe can be off-putting for a minority of taste buds, mine included…that’s why I like that Vega used a bunch of cocoa in their chocolate flavor I bought.

Interestingly, Vega must’ve heard our “Boo Stevia!” chants, since they addressed it on their site, providing this handy tip: add a squeeze of lemon to your shake or smoothie to knock stevia’s intensity down a notch.

Vega Sport taste vs Orgain & Garden of Life

I even pitted Vega Sport Premium against its counterparts – Garden of Life Raw Protein and Orgain Organic Protein Powder – in a taste test. They were all quite evenly matched, making it hard for me to put their flavor differences into words.

When I was gathering all the opinions of the wider buying public online, Vega Sport Premium’s taste comes out slightly ahead of both Garden of Life and Orgain.

 

 

Taste – Orgain Organic Protein

Regardless of my 2¢ on Orgain’s taste — which I’ll give you in a sec — tens & more tens of thousands of people rate Orgain Organic Protein’s main two flavors (chocolate & vanilla) very favorably.

Orgain’s Chocolate protein powder initially appealed to my taste buds. However, as time went on, I found the combined taste of the sugar alcohol erythritol and stevia started to become overpowering, leading me to seek alternatives.

A small percentage of people also report a ‘grassy’ flavor; my guess is it’s from the rice or chia proteins included in the mix.

 

Texture – Vega Sport vs Orgain

Texture is another critical factor in enjoying your protein shake. Nobody likes grit, and no one wants to encounter a clump in their mouth either.

In this regard, Vega Sport Premium took the crown for me, likely due to its exclusion of rice protein, a common culprit behind the gritty feel often associated with plant-based protein powders.

Orgain on the other hand didn’t score quite as well with me, because I had it clump a bit when I used in a shaker bottle of water…but it still offers a decent texture and taste experience that many many other people find satisfying.

A tasty conclusion

Here’s a cliché for you: Taste, like beauty, is in the eye (or in this case, the taste buds) of the beholder.

Both Vega Sport Premium and Orgain Organic Protein Powder have their unique flavors, and the right choice ultimately hinges on your personal preference, as it should.

 

Orgain vs Vega customer reviews & ratings

Let’s take a quick peek at what other protein powder pounders have to say about Vega Sport and Orgain Organic Protein.

The quick answer is, they both get two thumbs up.

“We’re #1, we’re #1”

With over 100,000 reviews online, Orgain Organic Protein Powder is a fan favorite. It’s obviously the biggest-selling vegan protein powder in the U.S., if not the world.

It gets high marks all over the web, consistently scoring around 4.5 to 4.6 out of 5 stars. People really seem to love it, or at least like it a bunch.

 

Vega’s ratings are just as high, just not as many of ’em

Vega Sport, though it doesn’t have quite the number of reviews as Orgain, is no slouch in the ratings department.

Over 20,000 reviewers have chimed in, and they’ve also given it a stellar rating in the 4.5-4.6 range. It’s pretty clear that Vega Sport is hitting the mark for its users too.

So, the bottom line? Both of these protein powders are chart toppers. They’re delivering what their customers are after, and folks are happy to voice their satisfaction.

 

Cost & deal comparisons

Alright, now let’s talk about what these powders will do to your wallet.

As you might expect, Orgain with the financial muscle of its papa company Nestlé behind it comes in at a lower price point than Vega Sport. And I’m basing that on comparing their prices that I’ve seen both on Amazon and on their respective websites.

But hey, good news. At the moment, both companies are offering a sweet 20% off for first-time buyers if you hand over your email. Worth considering, right?

     

Today’s Amazon price for Vega Sport Premium comes in at $1.56 per ounce. But if you jump on their 20% off deal on their site and snag the 5 lb. tub, you’d be down to $1 an ounce. Not too shabby.

However, if we’re talking pure savings, Orgain’s got Vega beat. Using their 20% off ‘new customer’ deal and picking up a 2 lb. can, you’re looking at paying just 62¢ an ounce.

For perspective, that makes it cheaper than even the low-budg crappy whey knockoffs you might see at Walmart.

 

What about subscribe and save options?

Well, both have a pretty weak 5% subscribe & save discount on Amazon. And over on Orgain’s site, they advertise a “Subscribe and save 35%!” deal. Sounds bitchin’, don’t it?

But don’t get too excited; it’s actually 25% off your first order and then just 10% off future shipments. Better than nothing if you’re a fan, and it still cheaper than Amazon, always a good thing.

Vega doesn’t have a subscribe and save deal on their site.

So there you have it. A bit of deal hunting could save you some change on both of these protein powders. Always worth a look.

 

About Vega the company

Vega’s story starts with an inspiration, a pro-ironman triathlete named Brendan Brazier. He had a deep belief in plant-based nutrition’s potential and, driven by his personal experience and research, he co-founded Vega in 2004.

The goal? To make plant-based nutrition accessible and inviting, to let others experience the transformative power of food.

 

Top quality standards

When it comes to safety standards, Vega doesn’t mess around. They understand that what you put into your body has to be trustworthy, and they take this responsibility seriously.

Vega’s products undergo rigorous third-party testing for quality assurance. This includes their Vega Sport Premium Protein, which is NSF Certified for Sport.

This certification means that it’s been independently tested and certified to ensure it meets strict safety, quality, and performance standards.

And that offers a peace of mind that many protein powder users find to be an absolute must.

 

A leading humanitarian & eco-friendly company

Vega isn’t just about selling quality products, though. They’re also a certified B-Corp, which means they balance purpose and profit.

They’re legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on their workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment.

In essence, they’re part of a movement of companies working to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy.

 

Pro-planet

This commitment extends to their environmental impact as well. Vega has teamed up with the Veritree organization for a reforestation project in Madagascar.

Right on Vega’s website, they’ll tell you: “We plant a tree with every order. We planted a tree every minute in the last year, help us plant 1 million trees.”

And it’s not just about planting trees; it’s about restoring habitats, improving local livelihoods, and nurturing a healthier planet.

 

Pro-human

Moreover, Vega is keen on giving back to its community. Since 2013, they’ve donated over 1.2 million pounds of food to local communities, food banks, hospitals, and emergency services.

This drive to serve extends the company’s mission beyond plant-based nutrition, demonstrating a commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.

 

About Orgain

Orgain’s journey also started with a powerful personal story many moons ago — long before they got assimilated by the Big Food Borg that is the Nestlé Corp.

Dr. Andrew Abraham, the company’s founder, was a teenager when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Through his recovery, he discovered the incredible power of nutrition, particularly organic, wholesome ingredients.

This experience inspired him to create Orgain, a company committed to offering clean, delicious nutrition to everyone.

Orgain started small, but their vision was mighty. Over time, their lineup of organic nutritional products has grown, and so has their community of fans.

However, it’s worth noting that Orgain is now owned by the global food giant, Nestlé Health Science.

Look up their track record sometime for an eyeful.

While this partnership between Orgain & Nestlé has undoubtedly allowed for wider distribution and growth, some might argue it distances Orgain from its humble, independent origins focused on truly clean ingredients.

 

If the company matters to you

Choosing between Vega and Orgain may not only be about the taste or nutritional profile of their protein powders. It could also be about aligning with a company whose values, mission, and practices resonate with you.

That’s your call. Your health is your journey, and the protein powder you choose is just one step along the way.

So, take your time, weigh your options, and choose the protein powder that not only fuels your body but also aligns with your personal values and beliefs.

 

Comparing their digestibility & absorption

Plant-based powders like Vega Sport and Orgain sometimes trigger digestive discomfort due to their high fiber content, in a few cases anyways.

One thing about these two though — remember they’re higher in protein than they are in carbs.

This means therefore that they’re also lower in fiber than they’d be if all the fiber from their veggie protein sources — peas, rice, chia, pumpkin & sunflower seeds — hadn’t already been removed.

If you know you’re prone to bloating in general, I bet if you just took your time sipping your vegan protein shake (whichever brand it is) instead of chugging it, all would be well.

 

For me, Vega was a lighter load

Vega Sport tends to be easier on the stomach, according to a rough guess after reading lots of reviewers who commented specifically about bloating or upset tummies. I drank both of these during the same time period, and I agree with them.

Orgain includes erythritol, a sugar alcohol that can cause bloating for a few people, and relies on chia seeds and rice proteins which can do the same to sensitive individuals.

(For instance, my wife. She gave up drinking Orgain after 4 or 5 mornings in a row with tummy blues from her shake. “Not the way I wanna start my day”, I think she said at the time.)

On the flipside, Vega Sport excludes these ingredients, potentially making it gentler on sensitive systems. Remember, everyone’s body reacts differently.

So maybe think of choosing a protein powder, be it Vega Sport, Orgain, or whoever, that aligns not only with your nutritional goals but also harmonizes with your digestive rhythm.

 

FAQ

Here are answers to a few of the commonly-asked questions about plant-based proteins.

Is Vega Sport Premium safe?

Absolutely, Vega Sport Premium is considered safe for consumption. Vega ensures safety and quality through a multi-step process that includes rigorous testing of their raw ingredients and finished products.

They are also NSF Certified for Sport, which means their products have been independently tested and certified to be free from banned substances and contaminants.

 

Is Orgain Organic Protein Powder safe?

Yes, Orgain Organic Protein Powder is also safe for consumption. All of Orgain’s products are made in facilities that meet strict FDA guidelines.

They are dedicated to ensuring their products are free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, and GMOs.

 

What are complete proteins and why are they important?

Complete proteins are those that contain all nine essential amino acids in sufficient amounts. These amino acids can’t be produced by the body and must be obtained from the diet.

They are crucial for numerous bodily functions, including muscle growth and repair, immune function, and the production of enzymes and hormones.

 

Can you build muscle on a vegan or vegetarian diet?

Yes, you can build muscle on a vegan or vegetarian diet. What’s crucial for muscle building is getting enough protein and essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.

Both can be obtained from plant-based sources such as legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

 

The Final Face-off: Vega Sport vs. Orgain

Here we are at the finish line of our comparison journey. It’s time to put Vega Sport and Orgain side-by-side for a straight-up, no-frills face-off.

I made a quick list of things I think are key to each of them, and you may have other ones we went over earlier too.

 

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

* Advantages over Orgain with better protein content, lower carbs, good fats, no sugar alcohols, & possibly better digestibility.

* Top-tier safety certifications: NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Choice, Gluten-Free & vegan-certified.

* Excellent corporate citizen: B-Corp certified, indicating Vega’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

* Sweetened with stevia; might be a little sweet for a few people.

* Priced higher, but offers bulk options and a ‘new customer’ discount.

 

Orgain Organic Protein

* USDA Organic, Gluten-Free, Vegan certified.

* Protein blend includes rice protein and chia protein, which might cause minor digestive discomfort for a few people

* Contains erythritol, a sugar alcohol, which might also contribute to digestive or gut issues

* Cheaper and also offers a new customer discount

* Parent company not loved by human rights organizations

 

Who’s Orgain a good choice for?

Orgain might appeal to the budget-conscious consumer who values organic certification and isn’t sensitive to erythritol or chia seeds.

It could be a great starting point for someone newly exploring plant-based protein powders.

 

Who’s Vega Sport a good choice for?

Vega Sport might be particularly appealing to athletes or those engaged in strenuous physical activities, given its higher protein content and complete amino acid profile.

Or for the fitness-minded who are keen to manage their macros (protein, carbs, & fat), to reach their body fat percentage or toned appearance goals.

It might also be a great choice for someone who places a premium on a company’s values, as well as its product safety, quality and sustainability standards.

 

Related articles here on heydayDo

Vega Sport vs. Vega One All In One

My 2 Years of Taking Orgain Collagen Peptides Review

A Dive Into The Dietary Deep: Is Whey Vegan?

Creapure vs. Creatine Monohydrate: Not All Creatine Is Created Equal

My Best Plant-Based Vegan Mass Gainers

Is Stevia Vegan? Is Stevia Natural? How Is Stevia Made?

Mystery No More: Do I Take Creatine On Rest Days?

Hype Check: Are BCAAs Worth It?

Creatine vs. BCAA – Less of a Battle, More of a Ballet

Vega Sport vs. Garden of Life Sport

Plant Power: My Hands-On Vega Sport Premium Protein Review

Wrapping up

Navigating the landscape of protein powders can sometimes feel a bit like wandering through a forest. Just remember that each step you take is one step closer to finding the path that’s right for you.

Whether that path leads you to Vega Sport or Orgain or somewhere else, what matters most is that you’ve taken the time to consider your unique needs and preferences.

Your commitment to finding the best nutrition for your lifestyle is a testament to the care you have for your health and wholeness.

—

I hope this Vega vs. Orgain article is useful to you, & I wish you well on your fitness journey.

– greg