The Best Protein Powders for Kids (2024 Guide)
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.After hundreds of hours of research, I’ve created this comprehensive guide on protein powder for kids! In this post, I will review how much protein children need, how to add it to their diets, when protein supplementation is a good idea, and I’ll provide you with a complete list of the best protein powders for kids!
With all of the new children’s protein powders on the market today, I know how hard it can be to figure out which is the best brand, what to look for in a protein powder, and whether your child even needs protein supplementation. The whole process can be so confusing! Also, you might be wondering: are protein powders even safe for kids to consume in the first place?
If you’re a parent of a school-aged child or younger, making sure your child is eating enough, consuming a variety of nutritious foods, gaining weight appropriately, and eating adequate protein may be high on your mental checklist. (I know it is on mine!) Young children grow rapidly and have increased demands for nutritious foods, yet many kids are picky eaters. Some kids even have medical conditions that keep them from consuming adequate nutrition.
So, how much protein do young children need? When is it a good idea to add protein shakes or powders to their diet? In this guide, I will outline protein recommendations for young children of all ages, the best ways to add protein to their diet through food sources, and when experts recommend considering adding protein supplements to children’s diets.
I will also review what to look for in kids protein shakes and powders and share my list of the best kids protein powders on the market today!
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But First, A Disclaimer
As a board-certified health coach and certified nutritionist, I support protein powder brands that are made with whole foods, do not have artificial or processed sugars, and are reported to be low in heavy metals, as all of these principles are rooted in science and are evidence-based to be most nutritious for children.
The FDA does not review protein powders for safety before they go to market, so I prioritize third-party tested brands and Clean Label Project Purity Award winners.
Though I may receive a commission (at no extra expense) if you purchase through some of the affiliate links provided, I only recommend products I’ve researched, evaluated, consulted experts on, and would feel comfortable giving to my two children. As always, I only share products that are the highest quality and that can help you and your family the most. By purchasing any of these products from the links below, you help keep this blog running, so thanks for your support!
Always speak with a registered dietitian or physician about your child’s diet and nutrition before adding in protein supplementation. Protein needs may be specific to your child, their activity levels, and any medical conditions they may have.
The information shared in this post is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard or delay in seeking professional medical advice because of something you read here and always consult with your doctor or dietitian regarding any questions you may have about kid’s protein powder.
All product prices are accurate at the time of this publication but are subject to change.
Quick Picks: The Best 13+ Protein Powders For Kids
Before we get into the specific protein needs of kids and toddlers, here’s an overview of the best protein powder for kids:
- The Best Overall Protein Powder For Kids: Amazing Grass Kids Superfood Protein + Probiotics
- The Best Protein Powder For Picky Eater Kids: Nurished Kids Mighty Milk
- The Best Plant-Based Kids Protein Powder: Else Kids Plant Protein Nutritional Shake for Kids
- The Best Whey Protein Powder For Kids: Mindful Nutrition Kids Protein Powder
- Best On-the-Go Powder For Kids: Orgain Kids Protein Shakes
- Best Tasting Protein Powder For Kids: Clean Simple Eats Kid’s Protein Powder
- Best Smoothie Protein Powder: Healthy Heights Grow Daily
- Best Superfood Protein Powder For Kids: 1st Phorm Opti Kids
- Best Collagen Protein Powder For Kids: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- Best Protein Powder for Toddlers: NuBest Tall Protein
- Best Allergen-Free Kids Protein Powder: Nuzest Kids Protein Powder
- Best Peanut Butter Protein Powder: Naked PB Powdered Peanut Butter
- Best Single Ingredient Protein Powders For Kids: Various Brands (see below)
How Much Protein Does Your Child Need?
The recommended amount of protein that your toddler, child, or teen needs depends on their age and body weight (source).
General protein recommendations for children are as follows:
| Age | Grams of Protein Per Day |
|---|---|
| 1-3 years | 13-14g/day (1.05g/kg of body weight) |
| 4-8 years | 19-20g/day (0.95g/kg of body weight) |
| 9-13 years | 34g/day (0.95g/kg of body weight) |
| 14-18 years | 46-52g/day (0.85g/kg of body weight) |
Note that these recommendations are based on body weight and age; some researchers anticipate that children with higher activity levels have increased protein intake needs, but studies have yet to be completed to confirm this (source). These protein needs also do not factor in other increased metabolic needs, so always confirm your child’s particular protein needs with their pediatrician or a pediatric dietitian.
Protein plays an important role in growth and development (source). It is used to build muscles and is a critical building elemental building block of all the body’s cells (source). Protein also regulates gene expression and helps support the immune system (source). Because of this, it is important to consume enough protein, especially during early developmental years
However, the amount of protein needed for children during these formative years may be lower than some parents expect. For example: 13-14g of protein per day for a toddler can be satisfied by eating 1 egg (6 grams of protein) and 8 ounces of whole milk (8 grams of protein) or 2 ounces of ground meat (8g of protein) and 1 ½ tablespoons of peanut butter (6g of protein).
For children who are picky eaters, who follow a diet limited in animal protein (i.e. vegetarian or vegan diets), or who have medical conditions that prevent them from consuming adequate protein, protein supplementation can be a good idea, however (source).
For all other children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that protein sources come first from food sources, as over-supplementation of protein can be dangerous (source 1, source 2).
The Best Food Protein Sources For Kids
Though your child may request only chicken nuggets or macaroni and cheese, many protein-rich food sources are available to help your child reach the daily recommended protein intake.
Greek yogurt, milk, eggs, cheese, cottage cheese, beef, chicken, turkey, and pork are great kid-friendly animal protein sources.
There are also many plant-based protein sources that your child may like, such as nut butter, seed butter, soy milk, hummus, garbanzo bean pasta or pizza crust, whole wheat pasta, quinoa, whole wheat bread, beans, hemp seeds, chia seeds, peas, and oats. All of my kids’ protein needs are met by these plant-based foods!
For reference, here is the protein content of some of these foods:
| Food | Serving Size | Grams Of Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt (2%) | ½ cup | 12 grams |
| Peanut Butter | 1 tablespoon | 4 grams |
| Whole Wheat Pasta | ½ cup cooked | 4 grams |
| Soy Milk | ½ cup | 3.5 grams |
| Whole Milk | ½ cup | 4 grams |
| Hummus | 2 tablespoons | 2.5 grams |
| Hemp Seeds | 1 tablespoon | 3 grams |
| Chia Seeds | 1 tablespoon | 2 grams |
| Eggs | 1 large egg | 6 grams |
| Ground Beef | 2 ounces | 11 grams |
| Low Cottage Cheese | ¼ cup | 7 grams |
| Sunflower Seeds | 2 tablespoons | 4 grams |
| Quinoa | ½ cup cooked | 4 grams |
A great way to ensure that your child reaches their daily protein intake through whole food sources is to provide at least 1-2 protein sources, whether animal or plant-based, at each meal. Even if your child doesn’t try something at the first exposure, keep preparing and serving the foods in different ways. Some children need to see a new food many times before they are comfortable enough to try it.
Having low expectations or pressure regarding the dinner table is also a good idea, especially during early childhood when kids commonly individuate or discover and assert their individuality, tastes, and preferences (source). Taking pressure off children while eating can have surprising effects, oftentimes resulting in more openness and curiosity towards new foods.
If your child temporarily consumes less protein along the journey to being more open to eating more protein-rich foods, if your child is sick and lacks an appetite for it, or if there is any other reason you are concerned about your child’s protein intake, you may want to discuss protein powder supplementation with their pediatrician or a registered dietitian.
Can Kids Have Protein Powder?
If you’re wondering, “Is protein powder good for kids?” Protein powders, specifically those formulated with no processed or artificial sweeteners, tested for heavy metals, and containing lower dosages of protein than adult versions, are considered to be safe for kids as long as consuming these powders doesn’t oversupply a child with protein (source).
Signs that a child have a protein deficiency include (source):
- Fatigue
- Poor concentration
- Delayed growth or developmental
- Hunger
- Decreased immunity
- Delayed wound healing
- Joint or bone pain
If your child shows any of these symptoms, discuss them with your child’s healthcare team to develop a strategy for increasing protein intake, whether through diet and/or supplementation.
For healthy children who consume adequate protein and do not show any of these symptoms, there are risks associated with over-consumption or excess protein, such as digestive problems and organ damage (source).
The Benefits Of Protein Powder For Kids
Protein powder has many benefits for children who do not consume enough protein on their own:
- Flavor: Many modern brands of protein powders have great flavor and mouthfeel, tasting more like a milkshake or smoothie, making it a more palatable option for many picky eaters.
- Versatile: With so many varieties and flavors of protein powder available, the options for incorporating them into the diet are nearly endless. For example, you can stir collagen powder or unflavored protein powder into soups, smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal, blend whey protein powder into smoothies, stir into muffin or pancake batter, and more.
- Convenient: Pre-prepared kid protein shakes make it easy to add nutrition to your child’s diet, regardless of how busy your schedule is. Some brands offer kid-sized portions of their protein shakes in small containers that kids can drink on busy mornings or during other periods when it would otherwise be hard to work in a homemade meal or snack.
- Added Nutrients: Many kid-friendly protein powders contain added vitamins and minerals, probiotics, fruit and veggie blends, fiber, whole grains, and more, making a bigger nutritional impact than protein alone. Note: If your child already consumes a multivitamin, consult their pediatrician about the safety of adding an enriched protein powder to their diet (source).
The Best Overall Protein Powder For Kids
Amazing Grass Kids Superfood Protein + Probiotics
Why I Love It: It’s hard not to love Amazing Grass Kids! With 10 grams of plant-based protein per serving, an organic greens, fruit, and vegetable blend, and a fantastic chocolate flavor, kids love this protein powder as much as parents do. It is without a doubt the best protein powder for teens, kids, and toddlers too!
Sweetened with organic coconut sugar, each serving of this protein powder has only 2 grams of sugar. Though it isn’t fortified with enough vitamins to be a multivitamin replacement, this protein shake mix delivers iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, giving your child a nutritional boost to fortify their day!
Some users report that Amazing Grass Kids can be difficult to mix with water, but this problem can be easily solved by mixing it with milk or by using a shaker bottle or blender.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $29.99 for 15 servings
Pros
Non-GMO
Plant-based protein
Contains an organic greens, fruit, and vegetable blend
Allergen-friendly: gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free
No artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors
Low sugar (2 grams)
Contains probiotics
Third-party tested
Kid-approved flavor
Cons
Can be difficult to mix (I recommend blending it with a high-speed blender into a smoothie or other drink)
The Best Protein Powder For Picky Eater Kids
Nurished Kids Mighty Milk
Why I Love It: With 9 grams of protein, organic spinach, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and a complete multivitamin in one, Nourished Kids Mighty Milk is the best protein powder for picky eaters two years of age and older.
Inspired by the chocolate milk that their children loved to drink but lacked in nutrients, the founders created this great-tasting protein powder to taste as good as chocolate milk while being much healthier. In fact, each 2-scoop serving of Mighty Milk has only 3 grams of added sugar!
Choose from chocolate, strawberry, cookies and cream, or vanilla protein powder. Although this protein powder is more expensive, it can be more cost-effective if it eliminates the need to also purchase a multivitamin and probiotic.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $27.99 for 15 servings. Subscribe and save 10%.
Pros
Non-GMO
Made with grass-fed protein
Gluten-free
Third-party tested
Low sugar (only 3 grams)
4 delicious flavors
All-in-one supplement: contains a multivitamin and probiotics
Contains organic spinach leaves
No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
Cons
May have too many added vitamins for some children
More expensive
Not dairy-free or lactose–free
Contains soy
Contains glucose syrup solids (processed sugar)
The Best Plant-Based Kids Protein Powder
Else Kids Plant Protein Nutritional Shake For Kids
Why I Love It: Else Kids Plant Protein Nutritional Shakes is one of the best protein shakes for toddlers, kids, and teens, regardless of whether or not your child follows a plant-based diet. It is made with whole food and minimally processed plant ingredients, supporting your child’s growth and development.
Packed with healthy carbs, good-for-you fats, and 5 grams of protein per serving, Else is a Clean Label Project Purity Award winner, meaning this protein powder has been tested and confirmed to be free of contaminants, heavy metals, and toxins.
The six-scoop serving size is large but parents report that it mixes easily and smoothly. Else offers vanilla and chocolate flavors that can be mixed with water or milk. Else is not completely vegan, as it utilizes animal-derived vitamin D3, but otherwise is a great option for plant-based children or kids with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $22.99 for 10 servings. Subscribe and save 10%.
Pros
Organic and Non-GMO
Soy-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free
Plant-based
Clean Label Project Purity Award winner
All-in-one supplement: contains a multivitamin
No artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors
Low sugar (4 grams)
Contains fiber
Third-party tested
Cons
Not completely vegan (contains animal-derived vitamin D3)
The Best Whey Protein For Kids
Mindful Nutrition Kids Protein Powder
Why I Love It: Made with milk protein concentrate and whey protein, kids love drinking Mindful Nutrition Kids Protein powder as much as parents feel peace of mind feeding it.
An added organic fruit and vegetable blend, added vitamins, and 8 grams of protein per serving can be a great way to healthfully boost the protein in a young picky eater’s diet. Mix this non-GMO protein powder with milk or water for a smooth and delicious chocolate milk-flavored treat your kids can enjoy as a substitute for chocolate milk or as an addition to any meal.
There aren’t many drawbacks to this whey protein kids protein powder, except for the fact that it has 6 grams of added sugar per serving. Most of that comes through organic cane sugar, meaning that this protein shake is still artificial sugar-free.
Where To Buy: Amazon and Walmart
Price: $24.99 for 15 servings.
Pros
Non-GMO
Contains an organic fruit and vegetable blend
All-in-one supplement: contains vitamins and minerals
No preservatives
No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
Children love the rich chocolate milk flavor
Convenient packaging
Cons
Higher sugar content (6 grams)
Not dairy-free or lactose-free
Best On-The-Go Protein Shake For Kids
Orgain Kids Protein Shakes
Why I Love It: Made with organic and non-GMO ingredients, only natural sweeteners, and an organic fruit and vegetable blend, Orgain Kids Protein Shakes are a solid option for on-the-go protein shakes.
Find these shakes—in pre-made bottles and ready-to-mix powder—at most major grocery stores, including Costco and Walmart. Each 8.25 fl oz bottle contains 8 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and 22 vitamins and minerals, making them great for busy mornings, road trips, school lunches, and more. They’re also fantastic for sipping after sports practice, making them the best protein shakes for kid athletes.
For an on-the-go plant-based protein shake, Else Kids now offers ready-to-drink shakes. They are Project Lean Label Award winners, plant-based, dairy and soy-free, and non-GMO!
Where To Buy: Amazon, Costco, & Walmart
Price: $20.26 for a pack of 12 8.25-fl oz bottles. Subscribe and save up to 15%.
Pros
Organic and Non-GMO
Grass-fed milk protein concentrate
Naturally sweetened
All-in-one supplement: contains vitamins and minerals
Gluten-free and soy-free
No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
Contains fiber
Contains an organic fruit and vegetable blend
Cons
Higher sugar content (9 grams)
Not dairy-free or lactose-free
Best Tasting Protein Powder For Kids
Clean Simple Eats Kids Protein Powder
Why I Love It: Formulated for children ages 2-12, Clean Simple Eats makes high-quality, clean protein powders with amazing flavor. Every scoop has so much goodness: this protein powder is made with grass-fed whey protein, prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
As the name implies, Clean Simple Eats has no added sugar, artificial colors, or flavors. It is also third-party tested for product purity, heavy metals, contaminants, and toxins. Their chocolate brownie batter and simply vanilla shake flavors contain a hearty but still kid-friendly 10 grams of protein per serving.
Unfortunately, Clean Simple Eats Kids protein powder contains xylitol, a sweetener known to cause digestive issues in some people (source). It would have been my pick for the best overall kid’s protein powder if not for this.
Where To Buy: Company Website
Price: $39.99 for 30 servings. Subscribe and save 10%.
Pros
Non-GMO
Grass-fed protein
Third-party tested
All-in-one supplement: contains a multivitamin, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and probiotics
Contains omega-3s
No added sugar
No artificial colors or flavors
Convenient packaging
Kid-favorite flavors
Cons
Contains xylitol
Not dairy-free or lactose-free
Contains soy & tree nuts (coconut)
More expensive
Best Smoothie Protein Powder For Kids
Healthy Heights Grow Daily
Why I Love It: Specifically formulated for children ages 3-9, Healthy Heights Grow Daily has a great flavor and texture that kids love while being fortified with vitamins and minerals to support your child’s growth and development.
Each child-appropriate 4 oz serving size contains 12 grams of protein. This non-GMO protein powder is free of corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. It is available in chocolate, vanilla, and unflavored, making it a fantastic addition to smoothies and the best smoothie-friendly protein powder for kids.
Parents rave about this protein powder, saying that their kids love the flavor and that it has helped their children thrive.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $36.95 for 14 servings or $24.95 for 7 servings. Subscribe & save 20%.
Pros
Non-GMO
Great flavor
Gluten-free and soy-free
No artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors
No preservatives
Contains fiber
Has added vitamins and minerals
Kosher
Cons
Not vegan-friendly
Not dairy-free or lactose–free
Not third-party tested
Higher in sugar (9 grams), in the form of organic cane sugar
Contains maltodextrin
Best Superfood Protein Powder For Kids
1st Phorm Opti Kids
Why I Love It: With 6 grams of protein, fiber, probiotics, vitamins, and a fruit, vegetable, and whole grain blend, 1st Phorm Opti Kids is an amazing superfood protein powder for teens, kids, and toddlers. Furthermore, since this powder is sweetened with natural stevia, it only delivers 1 gram of sugar per serving.
Stir two scoops of the powder with your child’s favorite milk or cold water to serve. Parents report that children love the chocolate milkshake flavor.
First Phorm does make a bit of a larger dent in the pocketbook because each container delivers 30 servings whereas most other brands offer only 15 servings per container. This all-in-one protein, multivitamin, and probiotic supplement is more than worth it.
Where To Buy: Company Website
Price: $49.99 for 30 servings.
Pros
Contains non-GMO fruit, vegetable, and whole grain blend
All-in-one supplement: contains a multivitamin and probiotics
Third-party tested
Low sugar (only 1 gram)
Tasty chocolate milkshake flavor
No artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors
Cons
Large container (but also more expensive than other protein powders)
Not dairy or lactose-free
Contains soy
Best Collagen Protein Powder For Kids
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
Why I Love It: You may be aware of collagen peptides for adults, but did you know that it’s also a great protein supplement for children? Collagen has many benefits for children, including keeping muscles and joints strong. It is also the most abundant protein in the body, making it an important one to prioritize (source).
Since Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are made with just one ingredient (bovine collagen peptides), they do not have any added sugars, artificial ingredients, or other unhealthy ingredients. They stir seemlessly into many foods – from hot liquids to cold yogurts and breakfast cereals – making them versatile and easy to add to many young children’s diets.
Note: Because a full adult’s serving size delivers 20 grams of collagen protein, a children’s serving size is just 1 scoop.
For children who do not eat meat or parents who prefer pescatarian sources, Vital Proteins now also makes a marine collagen peptides option.
Where To Buy: Company Website, Amazon, & at some Costco locations
Price: $47.00 for 56 1-scoop servings. Subscribe and save up to 15% off.
Pros
Non-GMO
Only 1 ingredient
Grass-fed & pasture-raised collagen
Third-party tested
Mixes very well with hot and cold ingredients
Unflavored
Allergen-friendly: dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free
Cons
Not suitable for a vegetarian diet, not vegan-friendly
Depending on how sensitive your child is to different tastes, and what you mix this with, they may be able to detect the taste if it’s not blended well into a smoothie or with other ingredients
Best Protein Powder For Toddlers
NutriKid Chocolate Kids Protein Shake
Why I Love It: You may know that infancy is the most rapid growth period of a person’s life, but toddlerhood is a close second for rapid growth rates and important developmental changes. In fact, most children will be close to half of their adult height by 3 years old (source)!
For this reason, it is important to ensure your toddler gets adequate nutrition to fuel this period of growth. If you are concerned about their protein consumption, NutriKid Protein is the best option to discuss with your child’s doctor. It is specifically formulated to support childhood growth.
It is the best nutrition powder for child growth with 10 grams of protein per serving, probiotics, fatty acids, and 36 vitamins and minerals. Parents report that their children willingly drink it and that it mixes well.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $30.39 for 16 servings
Pros
Non-GMO
Gluten-free
All-in-one supplement: contains a multivitamin and probiotics
Contains omega-3s
Low in sugar (1.5 grams)
Contains dietary fiber
Third-party tested
100% Money Back Guarantee
Cons
Not dairy-free or lactose-free
Contains stevia
Best Allergen-Free Protein Powder For Kids
Nuzest Kids Protein Powder
Why I Love It: If your child has any food allergies, Nuzest Kids is a great consideration. It is free of gluten, soy, peanuts, dairy, and lactose, with amazing texture and flavor.
This is one of the best protein shakes for kids available. Each 2-scoop serving contains 9 grams of protein, a multivitamin, probiotics, and prebiotics, eliminating the need for additional supplementation. Kids love the chocolate, wild strawberry, and vanilla caramel flavors, but they will never know that this protein powder is sugar-free!
Nuzest also contains a fruit, vegetable, and seed blend, adding natural nutrition to your child’s day. This protein powder is third-party tested and non-GMO. Though it is more expensive, this one product can replace additional probiotics, prebiotics, and multivitamin supplements, saving money overall. Nuzest also frequently runs sales.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $29.99 for 15 servings. Subscribe and save 20%.
Pros
Non-GMO
Vegan-friendly
Allergen-friendly: no gluten, soy, peanuts, dairy, or lactose
All-in-one supplement: contains a multivitamin, probiotics, and prebiotics
Contains fruit, vegetable, and seed blend
Zero grams of added sugar
Kid-approved flavors
Third-party tested
Cons
May have too many added vitamins for some children
Best Peanut Butter Protein Powder
Naked PB Powdered Peanut Butter
Why I Love It: If your child doesn’t have a nut allergy, peanut butter powder is a fantastic way to add protein to their diet and Naked PB is the best brand. It is all-natural, vegan and vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free, and made with only 1 ingredient.
This peanut butter powder is also the most affordable protein powder on this list, coming in at about only $.25 per serving. It mixes easily and is made with non-GMO and US-grown peanuts. It is also third-party tested for purity, contaminants, and heavy metals.
Best of all, many kids love this peanut butter powder. It is delicious mixed into oatmeal, sprinkled on yogurt, stirred into your child’s favorite baked goods, or added to energy balls.
Where To Buy: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $19.99 for 76 servings. Subscribe and save 20%.
Pros
Non-GMO
Only 1 ingredient (US-grown peanuts)
No additives or artificial sweeteners
Sugar-free
Gluten-free
Dairy-free and lactose-free
Vegan and vegetarian-friendly
Good source of dietary fiber
Mixes easily
Has a great peanut butter flavor
Third-party tested
Budget-friendly
Cons
Not allergen-friendly
Best Single Ingredient Protein Powders For Kids
Naked Almond Butter Protein Powder
Made with only US-grown almonds, Naked Almond Butter Protein Powder is a great peanut butter powder alternative for youngsters who have a peanut allergy. It is vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and sugar-free. Each serving has 10 grams of protein, making it a great option for children.
Nutiva Cold Pressed Hemp Seed Protein Powder
Add protein and omega-3 fatty acids to your child’s diet with Nutiva’s hemp seed protein powder. This plant-based organic and non-GMO protein powder is made with just organic hemp seed protein, offering all nine essential amino acids, fiber, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Note that a full 4-tablespoon serving of this powder has 15 grams of protein so most children will only need 2-3 tablespoons.
Probase Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder
Pumpkin seeds are naturally protein-rich, making them an exceptional base for single-ingredient protein powder. Probase pumpkin seed powder is organic and non-GMO, gluten-free, sugar-free, vegan-friendly, and great for food allergies. Each 2-tablespoon serving offers 19 grams of protein, so children will only need one tablespoon of it.
Naked Brown Rice Protein Powder
This protein powder only contains organic sprouted whole grain rice, making it vegan-friendly, fantastic for children with food allergies, and high in iron. With a neutral flavor, brown rice protein powder is perfect for adding to smoothies, stirring into pancakes or waffles, or whisking into soup. Whereas some brown rice protein powder can be high in heavy metals, Naked is independently tested for purity and safety. Each 2-scoop serving delivers 25 grams of protein, so children will only need ½-1 scoop to supplement their protein needs.
How My Team And I Picked The Best Kids Protein Powders
When I was evaluating the best protein drinks for kids, healthy ingredients came first. I looked at whether the powder was made with whole foods, and whether it contained no processed or artificial sugars. Third-party testing for heavy metals and being non-GMO, if not organic, was also important; and including a fruit and vegetable blend or added probiotics or prebiotics was an added plus.
I also looked for a protein powder for kids that catered to various dietary needs—for example, plant-based or allergen-friendly powders—and that were safe for children with a lactose intolerance or who followed a vegetarian or vegan diet.
My team’s dietitian approves every powder on this list for safety and nutrition. Most importantly, I have given or would feel comfortable giving each of these powders to my kids.
What To Look For In Kids Protein Powders (And What To Avoid)
The options can be overwhelming when shopping for the best protein powder for children, especially when you might not be sure what to look for on the nutrition label, and whether you can trust the claims made on the packaging!
I’ve created this short list to help you out. Here’s what to keep your eye out for and what to avoid when scanning the shelves:
- Natural Sweeteners: If the protein powder is sweetened, look for natural sweeteners such as cane sugar, maple syrup, maple sugar, coconut sugar, tapioca syrup, monk fruit, and stevia.
- Whole Food Protein: Look for whey, brown rice, pea, pumpkin seed, nut protein, concentrated milk protein, or bovine or marine collagen.
- Reduced Protein Dosages: Children’s protein powders should only have 6-12 grams of protein per serving (source), so avoid feeding adult protein powders or protein powder with more than this dosage per serving to your little ones.
- Additional Nutrients: If the powder also contains probiotics, prebiotics, fiber, fruit and vegetable blends, leafy green vegetables, or added vitamins and minerals that is a plus, but not essential, unless your doctor deems them otherwise.
- Third-Party Testing: The FDA does not approve protein powders, so it is ideal for kid’s protein powders to be third-party tested for purity and safety to confirm the absence of heavy metals and toxins (source), as these substances can be very dangerous for young, growing bodies. All but one of the protein powders on this list have been third-party tested for safety and purity.
- What To Avoid: Processed or artificial sweeteners such as corn syrup, sucralose, or xylitol, added colors, over-supplementation of vitamins and minerals (i.e., more than 100% of the recommended daily value), protein powders made for adults, or powders with more than 12 grams of protein per serving.
FAQs
Which protein is best for children?
The best protein for children comes from whole food sources such as beans, meat and poultry, eggs, dairy products, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.
If you are concerned that your child is not eating enough dietary protein sources or is showing any signs of being protein deficient, reach out to your pediatrician to discuss supplementing with one of the high-quality and safe protein powder options above.
Can kids drink protein shakes?
With all of the kid protein shakes available today, many parents wonder “Is protein powder safe for kids?” The short answer is that yes, theoretically kids can drink protein shakes. That is, shakes that are made with whole food proteins, naturally sweetened, tested for safety, and with reduced protein dosages. However, many kids are actually not protein deficient, so discuss protein shakes with your child’s healthcare provider before adding them to their diet.
What protein shakes are good for kids?
Many high-quality, nutritious, and safe protein shake options are available today! Some of the best brands for kids are Healthy Heights Grow Daily, Nurished Kids Mighty Milk, 1st Phorm Opti-Kids, Nuzest Kids Protein Powder, and Amazing Grass Kids.
Can toddlers have protein powder?
If your toddler is a picky eater or you know for any other reason that they do not consume the recommended 13 grams of protein per day, kid and toddler-specific protein powders can be safe for them (source).
Can kids have whey protein?
Yes, if your child’s pediatrician recommends that they take a protein supplement, whey protein is a good option and is considered safe by the CDC. Look for whey protein powders with minimal added ingredients, such as processed sugar or artificial sweeteners, and kid-appropriate protein doses of only 6-12 grams per serving.
Final Thoughts
I hope this list of the best kid’s protein powders answers your questions about protein powders and kid protein drinks. Many great, high-quality, and safe options are available to meet various dietary needs and taste preferences. The protein powders on this list contain healthy protein to fuel your child’s growth, fruit and vegetable blends, probiotics, omega-3s, and more.
Always be sure to consult your child’s doctor or dietitian before starting any supplement program, as they can guide you to the best option for your child.
Hi
My son is 3 and looking for a flavorless powder to add to his juice for weight gain and add nutrients as his diet is limited.
Hi there! I’m so sorry but I actually don’t know of any completely flavorless protein powders on the market today. Even the “unflavored” whey protein powders on this list will still have a “milk” like taste and won’t taste good mixed into juice. If your son will drink juice, maybe you can try making smoothies with one of the protein powders on this list, and see if he will enjoy that? Most smoothies made with bananas, apples, pears, etc. will mask the flavor of most protein powders. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali i have 9 years old twins boy and girl. We are vegetarian and my daughter is very picky eater and can’t eat much. Both are tall but very slim. We live in Canada. I read your older post. I want to try Tejari but they are not selling in Canada. So what would be the best option here. Thank you
Hi Ravi! Thanks so much for reaching out! Regarding what’s available in Canada, unfortunately since I’m based in the US I really don’t know what the best option might be in Canada. That said, if you come across a protein powder you want to try and you’d like my opinion on it, you can email me a photo of the ingredients & nutrition label to anjali@pickyeaterblog.com, and I can give you my thoughts! Hope that helps!
Hello Anjali
What do you think about Nurished brand or even used regular Pea Protein cut in half for 4 year olds? I like Tejari but bit pricey for only 16 servings right?
Thanks
Hi Monty! Nurished protein powder for kids is pretty good – it is organic which is great, and the serving size and amount of protein per serving for kids looks right. I don’t love that it uses sugar alcohols, and some of the varieties use about 4 grams of added sugar per serving, but other than that it’s a good option! You can use regular organic pea protein with the serving size cut in half or thirds for toddlers as long as your pediatrician is ok with it too!
Hello!
My son is 3 and weighs 29.5 pounds. He is very small for his age and needs to build up his muscles and add more weight onto his body. He is not too picky and eats plenty of fruit/veggies, and meats but does not seem to gain any weight from it. Is there a protein that will help him gain weight?
Hi Kim! I’d recommend Tejari protein powders – they’re formulated for kids and can be mixed into smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, baked goods, etc. so you can add it throughout the day to help give him more calories and protein for weight gain! Hope that helps!
I have a son who is 9 years old & ASD. He is a very picky eater. He weights 52 lbs & is very active. He has a peanut butter allergy. He currently drinks almond milk with carnation instant breakfast powder in it. He will only drink vanilla flavored or flavorless. Which product do you think would be best for us to try.?
Hi Michelle! I’d recommend the Vanilla flavored version of Tejari! You can mix it with almond milk and you can sweeten it with a bit of stevia or maple syrup if he needs it to be sweeter than the natural flavor of the protein powder. Hope that helps!
My daughter is 2 years old and she is weighing 26 pounds and her height is small. She doesn’t want to swallow food, she only chewing it but she spill it out.she is so picky. But she is allergy to milk, soy, dairy, nuts and she is lactose intolerance. Her dr told me to give her a shake powder as a replacement for her not eating. What kind of protein can I give to her.
Hi Rachell! Given your daughter’s various allergies, you should ask your pediatrician if Tejari or Amazing Grass would be appropriate for her!
My son is 4 years old ,his weight is 12 kg and height is 3feet 3 inch.He is typically a picky eater and eat only sugarry product and milk our family doc recommend him groviva but unfortunately there is no improvement.please,recommend a good product for my kid.
Hi! I would try Tejari which has super clean, organic protein along with many other nutrients in their fruit & veggie blends. You can mix it with milk in a blender and it tastes quite nice! If he doesn’t end up liking that, I’d try Amazing Grass which is sweetened with stevia so tends to feel like a sugary product (but isn’t), or Truvani (which I’d make sure your pediatrician is ok with you giving to your son before using it). Hope that helps!
Hello, my son is 4, he is a very picky eater and is also anaemic. The doctor recommended pediasure but I’m not comfortable giving that. My son doesn’t have smoothies or juices do I can’t even milk it with anything. He does eat oatmeal. Can you suggest a good powder for him?
Hi there! I would recommend Tejari – it tastes great in oatmeal and is perfect for 4 yr olds!
What do I do with my 6 year old step son that will not eat!, 37 pounds no BMI, what protein shake will work?
Hi Melissa! I would recommend trying Tejari’s protein powder! It’s full of healthy nutrients along with kid friendly ingredients. You can blend it into milk or any plant based milk! It also comes in a bunch of different flavors that most kids like!
My son is 6 and if on medication that affects his stories. He lives smoothies so I’m wondering if there is one that is nutrient dense but won’t affect the flavor of smoothies? I’m not as concerned about protein but I am about other nutrients. He eats well (healthy wise) but not enough. Thank you for any advice you might have!
Hi Andrea! Natural Force Whey Protein (the unsweetened / unflavored variety) is pretty much flavorless and should work well in your son’s smoothies. Hope that helps!
Where can I buy this need strawberry my twin Will not eat for days being she loves strawberry in her milk I’v been given her protein shakes carnation breakfast
Hi Minta! I’d recommend Tejari’s Strawberry Flavor – it would be perfect as a base for a homemade smoothie/shake for your daughter!
Hi, my 6 years old boy is not gaining weight and height.he has no mass in his body.i want for him any healthy product ,who can make muscle and taller.so please can you let me know which product i can use for him? thank you so much
Hi! I’d recommend Tejari which will provide both essential nutrients and 10 grams of protein in each serving and is formulated especially for kids! You can mix it with regular milk and any fruits/veggies you’d like to add into his smoothie. In childhood, much of growth is tied to calories, healthy fats, proteins, and nutrients overall – so I’d just make sure he’s eating well and this protein powder should help with overall calorie intake as well!
Hi! My doctor has suggested the use of pediasure for my 2 yr old. He has a milk allergy so I got him the soy based one but now he is refusing to eat actual foods. I am concerned he is having issues with the soy in them. Would you recommend any of these for him? He turned 2 in October, he is 33 inches high but only 22 pounds.
Hi! I’d recommend Tejari – you can turn it into a “milkshake” by combining it with any plant based milk (Forager makes a great unsweetened cashew milk that I love!) Hope that helps!
Hi my name is laxmi my 11 years daughter weight and height not gaining what should I do my son also he is 7 years running which product is best for them height and weight.
Hi Laxmi! If you’re looking for a good protein powder for an 11 year old and 7 year old, I’d recommend Performance Lab Protein Powder. It tastes great and is a highly absorbable whole food based protein powder. It should help with nutrition, and potentially with weight gain since it is additional calories. For kids, typically, height is more determined by a combination of genetics + nutrition than just nutrition (vs. weight, which is primarily determined by nutrition). So you should be able to impact their weight, but their height may or may not be impacted by what they eat. You can also give them lots of healthy fats that will add calories to their diet and mix it into a smoothie with the protein powder like: whole milk plain Greek yogurt, nut butters, flaxseed meal, avocado, etc. Hope that helps!
Hi! Thank you for all the great information! I noticed that the Performance Lab one does in fact have Stevia in the ingredients list. With that being the case, would that still be one of your top picks? Looking to help my 6 and 8 year old gain weight. Thanks!
Hi Michelle! I know lots of parents who use protein powders for their kids flavored with stevia extract and their kids do just fine on it. Personally, I give my 3 and 6 year old a smaller quantity of Performance Lab’s protein powder as I feel comfortable that the stevia extract they use is high quality. As long as you are comfortable giving your kids stevia, and your pediatrician is ok with you using this protein powder for them, it should be completely fine and would be one of my top picks! If you want a protein powder without stevia added, I recommend Tejari.
Halo madam,
My daughter aged 12years suffering from protein deficiency. As her weight is not enough as per her age. Please suggest her one protein powder to gain weight.
Hi Prasad! I’d recommend Performance Lab’s protein — it’s super high quality, tastes great, and if you put it in a smoothie with high caloric, healthy fats like: avocado, nut butters, whole milk, etc — it should help her gain weight. Hope that helps!
Hi Anjali, I just stumbled across your blog and am really thanking my stars now. My son is 2 by now but is not ready to eat solids i give him ragi mixed with almond powder with milk and honey. I have tried all sorts of foods he doesn’t eat more than 2 scoops of any solid food at all. I am worried on his development as i can go with protein powder. But can you suggest as to how many scoops and how much to feed him??
Hi Irene! Thank you for reaching out to me! Have you talked to his pediatrician about his lack of interest in food? It might be a sensory or textural issue, and occupational therapy might be able to help with that. In the meantime, I think this protein powder could work well for him – one serving of it (one scoop) should be enough. You should aim for about 7-10 grams of protein max from protein powder each day. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
My son is 2.5 years old and not eating anything except for milk and chocolate drink. Please suggest which shake i should give him.
Hi Elle! I would recommend Performance Lab’s protein powder. It’s chocolate flavored so you can mix it with milk and it should taste very similar to a chocolate drink!
My son is at the same age, unfortunately he only take eats a little and take his milk. He does not like chocolate drinks. He is very active and my husband and I are afraid he is not getting enough. I am thinking of getting him the superfood mentioned in the blog. Would anyone have an idea though?
Hi Claire! If your son is 2.5 but doesn’t like chocolate flavored drinks, I’d recommend trying either the Tejari Superfood Blend or the Truvani Vanilla Protein Powder. Hope that helps!