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. This guide has also been medically reviewed and fact-checked by Christina Badaracco, MPH, RDN, LDN. (See my About Me page for more info about Christina).
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. Children with certain medical conditions, those recovering from injury, or with other circumstances will have higher needs. Also, some researchers anticipate that children with higher activity levels have increased protein intake needs, but evidence for this is not conclusive (source). It’s best to 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 block for all the body’s cells (source). Protein also regulates gene expression and comprises and supports the immune system, among other functions (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 (8 grams of protein) and 1 ½ tablespoons of peanut butter (6 grams of protein), which is feasible for most children to consume.
But for children who are picky eaters, who follow a diet limited in animal protein (e.g., vegetarian or vegan diets), or who have medical conditions that prevent them from consuming adequate protein, protein supplementation may be a good idea (source).For all other children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that protein 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, a variety protein-rich food sources can help your child reach the daily recommended protein intake.
Yogurt, milk, eggs, cheese, cottage cheese, fish, 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; examples include 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 Fat 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, often 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 whether protein powder is good for kids, know that protein powders, specifically those formulated with no refined 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).
For healthy children who consume adequate protein and do not show any signs of a protein deficiency (see details below), there are risks associated with over-consumption or excess protein, such as digestive problems and organ damage (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. (Note: protein powder is just one form of supplementation – there are other protein supplements kids can use such as shakes, bars, etc. But for this guide, we’re focusing just on protein powders).
The Benefits Of Protein Powder For Kids
Protein powder has many benefits for children who do not consume enough protein on their own:
- 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. Or, you can blend whey protein powder into smoothies, stir it into muffin or pancake batter, and use it in other creative ways.
- 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.
- 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 fruit and vegetable blend
Allergen-friendly: gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free
No artificial 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, Nurished 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 micronutrients, the founders created this great-tasting protein powder to taste as good as chocolate milk while being more nutrient-dense. Each 2-scoop serving of Mighty Milk has only 3 grams of added sugar (but keep in mind, this protein powder is sweetened with monk fruit).
Choose from chocolate, strawberry, cookies and cream, or vanilla protein powder. Although this protein powder is more expensive than some of the options on this list, 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 whey 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 leaf powder
No artificial colors or flavors
Cons
More expensive
Not dairy-free, vegan, or lactose–free
Contains soy
Contains glucose syrup solids (i.e., a heavily refined sugar)
Contains monk fruit
The Best Plant-Based Kids Protein Powder
Else Kids Plant Protein Nutritional Shake For Kids
Why I Love It: Else Kids Plant Protein Nutritional Shake mix offers some of the best protein shakes for toddlers, kids, and teens, regardless of whether or not they follow 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 into liquids easily and smoothly. Else offers vanilla and chocolate flavors that can be mixed with water or milk. Else is vegan and uses vitamin D3 derived from algae, and is a great option for plant-based children or kids with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Honestly, this protein powder is great, and if it weren’t for the maltodextrin, it would have been my pick for the best overall kid’s protein powder!
Note – 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: Company Website & Amazon
Price: $22.99 for 10 servings. Subscribe and save 10%.
Pros
Organic and non-GMO
Soy-free, gluten-free, vegan, 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, compared to up to 10-15 grams in other brands)
Contains fiber
Third-party tested
Cons
Does contain maltodextrin
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.
With an added organic fruit and vegetable blend and vitamins, the 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 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 from cane sugar, and is also sweetened with stevia.
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 or flavors
Children love the rich chocolate milk flavor
Convenient packaging
Cons
Higher sugar content than many of the options on the list (6 grams)
Not dairy-free or lactose-free
Sweetened with stevia
Best On-The-Go Protein Shake For Kids
Orgain Kids Protein Shakes
Why I Love It: Made with organic 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 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.
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
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 (but it is sweetened with sugar alcohols). 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 includes stevia and monk fruit as sweeteners as well.
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, monk fruit, stevia
Not dairy-free or lactose-free
Contains soy & tree nuts (coconut)
More expensive than some of the options on this list
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, according to reviews on Healthy Heights’ website and on Amazon.
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
Vegetarian-friendly
Cons
Not vegan-friendly
Not dairy-free or lactose–free
Not third-party tested
High in sugar (9 grams), in the form of organic cane sugar
Contains maltodextrin, which is a highly processed starch
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, this protein powder only delivers 1 gram of sugar per serving (note: it is sweetened with natural stevia instead of sugar).
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, according to reviews on the 1st Phorm website.
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 or flavors
Cons
Large container (but the total cost is more expensive than other protein powders)
Not dairy- or lactose-free
Contains soy
Contains stevia
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 can also be a great protein supplement for children? Collagen has many benefits for children, including keeping connective tissue 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 seamlessly 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 1-2 tablespoons, which would be between 5 grams (1 tablespoon) to 10 grams (2 tablespoons) of collagen protein.
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, according to website and Amazon reviews.
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 per serving)
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 (note: it does have stevia included).
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 compared to other brands, 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
Sweetened with stevia
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 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 as a supplement.
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 1 tablespoon of it as a supplement.
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 wanted to make sure to include at least a few options 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 and less-refined sweeteners maple syrup, maple sugar, honey, or coconut sugar. Other natural sweeteners like cane sugar and tapioca syrup are ok too but are more refined. Note: monk fruit and stevia are alternative sweeteners, and are not ideal. However, I prefer monk fruit or stevia to other alternative sweeteners like sucralose or sugar alcohols.
- Protein Sources: Look for whey, brown rice, pea, pumpkin seed, nut, concentrated milk protein (casein), 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 can be a plus, but not essential (ask your child’s pediatrician about whether they should have these included in their protein supplement).
- 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—especiallyfor 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: Sweeteners such as corn syrup; artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols such as sucralose, mannitol, or xylitol; over-supplementation of vitamins and minerals (i.e., more than 100% of the recommended daily value—although some kids may need more if they have a certain genetic condition, are taking a medication that depletes it, are recovering from surgery, etc., so ask your child’s pediatrician about what’s best for them); 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, seafood, 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, kids can theoretically drink protein shakes—ideally, 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 can be a good option and is considered safe by the CDC (source). 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.
I have a 3.5 year old little girl that only weighs 24 pounds. She is an extremely picky eater and she barely eats anything throughout the day. She has only gained like 2 pounds in a year. We are wanting to put her on a protein shake but aren’t sure which one to try. Do you have any recommendations? Thank you!
Hi Victoria! I would highly recommend Performance Lab’s Brown Rice Protein for your daughter. It’s free of any artificial or harmful ingredients, and the brown rice protein used is highly bioavailable so should be easy for your daughter’s system to absorb. I’d recommend combining that with high fat, high nutrient ingredients (assuming she will accept them) in a shake like: avocados, nut butters, whole milk or whole milk plain (or greek) yogurt, ground flaxseed, along with any fruits she likes. Hope that helps! Let me know how it goes!
Hi Anjali,
Currently we are giving Orgain kids protein shake to our 4 yr old son. Which protein do you suggest for him, are all these proteins are in powder form or in skake form. If these are in powder form then can we mix in glass of milk.
Hi! All of the protein powders I recommend are in powder form – but they can easily be blended into milk like a milkshake! The Performance Lab powder is chocolate flavored, so it would taste great mixed with milk (basically would taste like chocolate milk). I’d recommend using a blender to mix it up so that it mixes completely (vs. doing it by hand). Hope that helps!
Hello
My son is 4yrs old weighing 22lbs. His hight is 90 cms. Which powder do you suggest?
Hi Sampada! I would probably go with Nutiva because it’s very comprehensive nutritionally. Or, if you want a whey based protein (which also helps with weight and growth), I’d recommend Natural Force. Hope that helps!
Hello,
Would any of these brands be good to bake with? Like for pancakes? Vanilla I could probably work with but unflavored even better.
Thanks!
Hi Allie! You can use Natural Force Whey Unflavored – that should work ok in pancakes and baking!
Hi,
I have a 11 year old, overweight child. Who definitely is a picky eater. He is very interested in protein shake. My question- should I even consider having have start a protein shake to replace breakfast or lunch? and if yes, which one.
On other hand, I have 9 year old who is underweight. Its very hard for him to gain weight. What can I do and add extra on his diet with 3 meals to help him.
Just please keep in mind I want both of them to have a good height grow, if there any thing that can help with that also.
Hi Amanda! I’d actually recommend Performance Lab’s Brown Rice Protein Powder for both of your kids! It is vegan, gluten-free, allergen friendly, organic, non-GMO and free of anything artificial. It has added probiotics that help with protein absorption, and their specially formulated Oryzatein® organic whole brown rice grain protein absorbs 30% faster than whey! So that makes it perfect for your younger one, because it will help him gain weight and hopefully also grow. It’s also good for kids who are overweight because it’s low in calories and low in sugar. They have an ongoing “Buy 3, Get 1 free” discount too! Hope that helps!
Hi Anjali
I have a 6 and 4 year old who play sports. They usually do not like to drink milk, but will drink Hot Chocolate. Can you suggest any powder from your above which will taste like Hot chocolate but does not taste like artificial sugars.I tried the amazing grass KIDZ but they do not like the taste of it.
Thanks Hema
Hi Hema! I think your best bet is to use Truvani Chocolate Protein Powder and mix it with unsweetened almond milk or even regular milk in a blender so that it combines well before heating it up like hot chocolate. It does contain monk fruit extract to make it sweet, but that’s much more natural compared to any of the other sugar-free sweeteners out there. Alternatively, you can make your own hot chocolate with unsweetened cocoa powder, milk, and just a touch of honey or coconut sugar (like 1 tsp). Not sure how sweet it has to be for your kids to enjoy it, but that might work too! Hope that helps!
Thank you for this helpful information! It is a challenge to find honest advice on plant based supplements for the little ones. I have a 14 month old. What are your thoughts on Nutiva’s organic hemp protein powder? It’s one ingredient and wanted to see if a good idea to add to our homemade plant milk or smoothies for a protein boost for my son.
Hi Tae! I love Nutiva’s Organic Hemp Protein Powder! I think it would be fine to add a little bit of that to a smoothie for your toddler. I’m not sure what the portion size is per scoop, but I’d stick to about 5-8g of protein added to your toddler’s smoothie (max). Hope that helps!
Hello, my almost 12 year old is a little overweight and has been asking to get her protein powder for her smoothies. What would be the best option for her? To avoid extra calories and high in fiber and protein?
Hi! All of these protein powders are actually quite low in calories (all are around 100-130 calories per serving). But if you want the lowest calorie and highest fiber option I’d recommend EarthShake Organic which has only 70 calories, 4g fiber and 4g protein per serving. But you’re making a tradeoff between calories and protein since an option like Truvani has 2g fiber, 130 calories but 20g protein per serving. So it really just depends on whether you want more fiber or more protein in her diet right now!
Hi Anjali,
Thank you so much for this wonderful article. I use a protein powder for my 2yo and 5yo when they are in their “I don’t want to eat anything” phases. I noticed it wasn’t on your list, but appears to fulfill all the requirements of your list for a quality protein powder. I use Garden of Life. It’s organic and raw. It is the formula without flavor or stevia. It’s also vegan, soy free, dairy free, gluten free, plant based and no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Have you heard of them? If so, what do you think?
Hi Tara! I’m glad this post was helpful to you! To your question – normally I love Garden of Life and I recommend/use many of their products. But unfortunately many of their protein powders turned up on this recent Consumer Reports investigation list of protein powders that have high concentrations of heavy metals. I’m not sure if the unflavored/organic/raw one is on the Consumer Reports list, but I erred on the side of caution for this post and figured that if some of the Garden of Life protein powders tested positive for heavy metals, that the rest are likely contaminated as well since they’re made in the same processing facility. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
My daughter is 5 years old and not gaining weight please advise
Hi Amit! I’d need a bit more information before I’d be able to give you concrete advice. Do you want to email me at pickyeats@gmail.com with: your daughter’s current weight, her daily diet in detail, and what your pediatrician has told you about her weight and growth trajectory? And then we can go from there. Thanks!
Which protein is gain weight because my kid is 6 plus but the weight is only 16 what to do please tell me.
Hi Supriya! I’d probably go with one of the higher calorie protein powder options like Truvani or Nutiva — and add it into a smoothie with healthy fats (avocado or nut butter), whole milk Greek Yogurt, and fruits/veggies!
Hello,
My toddler is 15mths and is slow to gain weight and low on the growth curve. We would like to add a protein powder to homemade hemp milk. Which one do you recommend for a 15mth old? We will cut the amount as she is young and tiny. She is currently breastfeed but we need to supplement. Thank you!
Hi Jen! I’d go with either Natural Force Whey (the plain/unflavored version here) or Loulouka Stage 3 which is made with whole milk so you’ll get healthy fats along with that too. Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Shoot! I totally forgot to mention she is anaphylactic allergic to all dairy and eggs:( So hard when you are trying to bulk a baby up! Any non dairy protein powder you recommend for a 15mth old? We have been adding some Pea Formula by Baby’s own to a breastmilk bottle, not sure what you think of that one…Thank you again! 🙂
Hi Jen! In that case I’d recommend Tejari — it’s a super clean, plant based organic protein powder with no sugar or syrup solids added! The Baby’s Only Pea Protein formula is ok, but it does have syrup solids added which is not as ideal. Hope that helps!
Thank you so much! She loves the Tejari. Wonderful product. I was also curious of one that is just plain or if no plain, vanilla, that you recommend that I can mix with her Breastmilk. The Tejari is great for a smoothie. Delicious. Thank you! She is 15mth old.
Hi Jen! I’m so glad Tejari is working out well! Unfortunately they don’t have a “plain” flavor. And none of the other protein powders on my list will mix well with breastmilk which has a very specific consistency. I’d just keep giving the Tejari or any other protein powder to her in smoothies, since that seems to be working for her!
Hi Anjali,
Thanks for posting the details about the protine for kids. Our daughter is 8 years old. She does many activities like dance skating etc. We need to add protien in her diet. She can’t digest whole milk. Are these protine powders available in any stores in US?
Thanks
Hi Harry! Some of these protein powders are available in some US health-food grocery stores but it really depends on where you’re located and what stores are near you. You could always look at the grocery stores around you and see if they carry any of the protein powders on this list. But honestly I’d just buy it from Amazon since almost all of these are much easier to get online!
Hi Anjali,
First off, thanks a ton for this detailed and informative run down on proteins.
I have a super skinny 10 yr old picky eater. She has run a half marathon and is training for the next. Food, is a biggggg issue. Which of the above ( from your post)would you suggest for her daily running . She runs 4 miles every other day.
Thanks a ton again for everything.
Renu
Hi Renu! I’d probably go with this Whey Protein Powder which is great for runners, and you can mix it into a smoothie with healthy fats (nut butter, avocado) and fruits/veggies to make it a filling, complete meal. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
I have a 5 yr old that is a difficult eater and will not tolerate flavors. Do you know of any unflavored nutritional powders that can be added to milk?
Hi Michelle! This Whey Protein Powder is unflavored and you can blend it with milk (I’d recommend mixing it in a blender so that it mixes well). Another option is this Casein Protein Powder which also blends well into milk and makes it more the consistency of a smoothie or milkshake. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Can you recommend any similar neutral taste products that I can get in the UK? For the casein protein powder how much should I give my three year old? Many Thanks.
Hi Katie! I’m so sorry but I’m just not familiar with what’s available in the UK since I’m based in the US! But if there is a particular protein powder you’re looking at in the UK you are welcome to email me a picture of the ingredients list and nutritional information (to pickyeats@gmail.com) and I can give you my feedback. For casein, I’d stick to no more than 8-10g of casein per day for your 3 year old.
Hiii my baby is 28 months 0ld and he is not growing properly from last 7 months neither his height is growing nor from weight what to do please help and tell me which protein powder is best for him??
Hi Kiranjeet! I’d probably go with Natural Force Whey since that has a complete amino acid profile and can easily be blended into milk. If you want a plant protein option I really like Nutiva. I would also check with your pediatrician on the right quantities of each of these protein powders/serving size for your baby since they can see him in person before giving them to your baby. Hope that helps!
Can you suggest with reasonable prices as alternate of this or any other?? It is too costly
Hi Kiranjeet! Which protein powder specifically are you looking for a cheaper option for? I have a large variety of price points on my list so if you can tell me which one you’re trying to replace I can give you some alternatives. Thanks!
Hello,
I am the father of a 7 yo with ADHD and hight functioning autism who is a picky eater and has food sensitivity to Milk.
I am looking for an ideal protein powder that is little taste and can be added to his morning oatmeal which will not much change the textures and taste. We used Whey but found recently that he has allergic sensitivity to it. Much thanks navid.
Hi Navid! Is your son ok with sweeter tastes in his oatmeal? Because all of the non-whey protein powders have a slight sweetness to them (e.g. from monk fruit, etc). If so, I’d recommend Truvani Vanilla which won’t change the texture of your son’s oatmeal but might just make it a bit sweeter. All of the other non-whey based protein powders have even more flavor (e.g. almond or peanut flavor, or chocolate or fruit flavor, etc.). Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!