Plant-Based Protein: A Complete Guide to Developing Plant Protein Powder for Your Supplement Brand

Plant-based protein has become an increasingly popular category in the nutrition and supplement market. What was once largely associated with vegan and vegetarian consumers is now attracting a much broader audience looking for alternative protein sources and convenient ways to increase their daily protein intake.

For supplement brand owners, this creates an opportunity to develop plant-based protein powder products for sports nutrition, active lifestyles, everyday wellness and plant-based consumers.

However, developing a successful plant protein product involves more than selecting a protein ingredient. Protein source, nutritional targets, flavour, texture, solubility, serving size and cost all need to be considered during formulation.

What Is Plant-Based Protein?

Plant-based protein is protein derived from plant sources rather than animal-based ingredients such as whey, milk or eggs.

Common protein sources used in plant-based protein powders include:

• Pea protein
• Rice protein
• Soy protein
• Pumpkin seed protein
• Fava bean protein
• Potato protein

Each protein source has different nutritional and functional characteristics. Some may provide higher protein content, while others may contribute different amino acid profiles, flavours or textures.

For supplement brands, there is therefore no single “best” plant protein. The appropriate ingredient depends on the product concept, target consumer, nutritional requirements and desired price point.

Why Plant-Based Protein Is an Opportunity for Supplement Brands 

Plant protein is no longer limited to consumers following a strictly vegan diet.

Today, plant-based protein products can be positioned for a wider range of consumers, including:

• Active individuals and gym-goers
• Consumers looking for dairy-free alternatives
• Vegan and vegetarian consumers
• Health-conscious consumers
• Busy professionals looking for convenient nutrition
• Consumers interested in plant-based lifestyles

This gives supplement brands flexibility in developing products beyond a basic vegan protein powder.

For example, a brand could develop a plant-based protein specifically for sports nutrition, daily wellness, weight management or meal replacement, depending on the intended market and regulatory requirements.

The key is to start with the target consumer and product positioning before deciding on the formulation.

Common Plant Protein Sources 

Pea Protein

Pea protein is one of the most widely used ingredients in plant-based protein powder.

It can provide a relatively high protein content and is commonly used in vegan and sports nutrition products. However, pea protein may have an earthy or legume-like flavour, which needs to be considered during flavour development.

Rice Protein

Rice protein can be used on its own or combined with other plant proteins.

It is commonly included in plant protein blends and can contribute to a more balanced formulation. However, texture and mouthfeel need to be evaluated carefully when developing the finished powder.

Soy Protein

Soy protein has a long history of use in protein and nutrition products.

It can provide a high protein content and can be incorporated into various formulations. However, its suitability depends on the intended target market and brand positioning.

Plant Protein Blends

Rather than relying on a single protein source, brands can consider combining different plant proteins.

A protein blend may be developed to achieve specific nutritional or sensory objectives. The exact combination should be determined based on the requirements of the finished product rather than simply adding multiple protein sources. 

Plant Protein vs Whey Protein

One of the most common questions when developing a protein product is whether to use plant protein or whey protein.

Whey protein is well established in sports nutrition and is widely recognised for its protein quality and consumer familiarity.

Plant-based protein, meanwhile, gives brands the opportunity to target consumers looking for plant-based or dairy-free alternatives.

Neither is automatically the better option for every product.

The right choice depends on your:

• Target consumer
• Product positioning
• Desired protein content
• Nutritional requirements
• Flavour profile
• Cost target
• Market opportunity

For a brand targeting a plant-based lifestyle, plant protein may be a natural fit. For a conventional sports nutrition product targeting consumers already familiar with whey, whey protein may be more appropriate.. 

The Challenge of Developing a Good-Tasting Plant Protein Powder

One of the biggest challenges in plant protein formulation is sensory quality.

Plant proteins can have natural characteristics such as:

• Earthy flavours
• Bean-like notes
• Bitterness
• Chalkiness
• Grittiness
• Aftertaste

These characteristics can become particularly noticeable when the protein dosage is increased.

This is why flavour development should be considered alongside protein selection rather than added at the end of the formulation process.

A protein powder may have an excellent nutritional profile, but if consumers dislike its taste or texture, the product may struggle to achieve repeat purchases.

What Should Supplement Brands Consider Before Developing a Plant Protein Powder?

Before approaching an OEM/ODM manufacturer, it is useful to define several key requirements.

1. Protein Target

How much protein do you want to provide per serving?

A product targeting sports nutrition may require a different protein target from an everyday wellness product.

The protein target will also influence serving size, formulation and manufacturing cost.

2. Protein Source

Do you want to use pea protein, rice protein, soy protein or a combination?

The answer should be based on the product’s nutritional and sensory objectives rather than simply following market trends.

3. Flavour

Flavour selection needs to work with the natural characteristics of the chosen protein.

Chocolate, vanilla, coffee, matcha and fruit flavours can all be considered, but the most suitable option depends on the protein system and target consumer.

4. Texture and Solubility

Consumers expect protein powder to mix conveniently and provide an enjoyable drinking experience.

Plant proteins can sometimes create challenges with grittiness, thickness or dispersion, making these important considerations during formulation and sampling.

5. Target Cost

Your target selling price will influence the formulation.

Protein source, protein dosage, flavour system, supporting ingredients and packaging can all affect the final product cost.

Establishing a realistic target cost early can help avoid developing a formula that is difficult to manufacture commercially.

How Is Plant-Based Protein Powder Developed?

Developing a plant-based protein powder typically involves several stages.

1. Product Concept

Define the target consumer, positioning, protein target, serving size and desired product characteristics.

2. Ingredient Selection

Select suitable plant protein sources and supporting ingredients based on the product objectives.

3. Formulation

Develop the formulation with consideration for nutritional composition, taste, texture, solubility and cost.

4. Sample Development

Produce samples for the brand to evaluate.

5. Sensory Testing and Refinement

Assess flavour, sweetness, mouthfeel, texture and overall drinking experience before making further adjustments.

6. Manufacturing

Once the formulation is finalised, the product can proceed toward commercial production, packaging and the applicable regulatory and documentation requirements.

This development process is important because the first formulation is not necessarily the final commercial formula.

Why Work With a Plant-Based Protein OEM/ODM Manufacturer?

For supplement brand owners, developing a protein powder independently can involve coordinating ingredients, formulation, sampling, manufacturing, packaging and documentation across multiple suppliers.

Working with an experienced OEM/ODM supplement manufacturer can simplify this process.

At LIQ Formulations, we support brands in developing customised supplement and functional food products based on their product concepts and market requirements.

Our product development process can support areas such as:

• Product concept development
• Ingredient selection
• Custom formulation
• Flavour development
• Sample development
• Manufacturing
• Packaging coordination
• Product documentation
• Regulatory support

The goal is not simply to manufacture a protein powder. It is to help develop a product that fits your brand, target consumer and commercial objectives.

Develop Your Own Plant-Based Protein Powder With LIQ Formulations

Plant-based protein offers supplement brands an opportunity to enter a growing and versatile product category.

But a successful product requires more than choosing a plant protein ingredient. Protein source, nutritional target, flavour, texture, solubility, serving size, cost and positioning all need to work together.

If you are looking to develop your own plant-based protein powder in Malaysia, LIQ Formulations can support your product development journey from concept and formulation through to manufacturing.

Whether you already have a complete product concept or are still exploring the right formulation direction, our team can help assess the possibilities for your brand.

Looking to launch your own plant-based protein powder? Contact LIQ Formulations to discuss your OEM/ODM product development requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is plant-based protein suitable for sports nutrition?

Yes. Plant-based protein can be formulated for sports nutrition products, depending on the desired protein content, nutritional profile and target consumer.

What is the best plant protein for protein powder?

There is no single best plant protein for every product. Pea, rice, soy and other plant proteins have different nutritional and functional characteristics. The right choice depends on the product concept and formulation objectives.

Can different plant proteins be combined?

Yes. Different plant proteins can be combined to create a protein blend. The combination should be selected based on the nutritional, sensory and commercial requirements of the finished product.

Is plant protein difficult to formulate?

Plant proteins can present formulation challenges, particularly in relation to taste, texture, mouthfeel and solubility. Proper ingredient selection, flavour development and product testing are therefore important.

Can I develop my own plant-based protein brand in Malaysia?

Yes. Supplement brands can work with an OEM/ODM manufacturer to develop a customised plant-based protein product. The appropriate product category, ingredients, claims and regulatory requirements should be assessed during development.

Can LIQ Formulations develop customised plant protein powder?

Yes. LIQ Formulations provides custom product development and manufacturing support for brands looking to develop protein and functional nutrition products. The formulation can be developed around the brand’s target consumer, nutritional requirements, flavour preferences and commercial objectives.