Vega vs Orgain Protein Powder Reviewed by Plant Based Chef

Nutrition | Written by Nathan Petitpas | Updated on 14 April 2023

A side-by-side comparison of Vega vs Orgain protein powders, on the left is a white and green colored container of Vega protein powder in vanilla chai flavor, and on the right, is also a green and white colored container of Orgain organic protein powder in chocolate flavor.

Vega vs Orgain: which is better overall and per criteria such as macronutrients, micronutrients, quality ingredients and more?12, 13

These two brands are popular among lifters looking for non-animal based protein shakes to supplement with and to be fair, they’re a close match as far as protein powders go. 

However, the choice can be made easier by looking over the plant based chefs views on the pros and cons of both brands. In turn, this can make it easier to select one brand over another depending on an inviduals on preferences such as budget, calories, protein needs, vitamin variety, training needs, taste and more. 

Nutritional Value of Vega vs Orgain: Side by Side Comparison 

Both Vega and Orgain brands provide high quality protein shakes and due to the large influx of meal replacements in the U.S., it is easy to see why those seeking protein supplements would have a hard time making the right choice that is most suited to them. 

Before delving into the details about what each brand has to offer, the tables below give a summary of macros, micros and ingredients of each brand giving a quick side by side comparison.

The table compares the two products in terms of protein, carbohydrates, calories, macronutrient, micronutrient, and healthy ingredients, the table displays an "X" in the respective column to indicate the winner in each category.

An Overview of Orgain Protein Powder

Orgain protein powder brand was founded and created by Dr. Andrew Abraham, a cancer survivor. The advice received from his doctors was to increase the intake of meal replacement shakes but the brands available only contained artificial flavors, sugars and were synthetic which are not ideal for a sick person or even those on a healthy diet plan meal nutrition.

As a result of this void in the market for a wholesome shake, Orgain was born. Orgain is actually a blend of the terms organic and gains which is a testament to the ideals that the brand stands for. Orgain products are healthy and clean nutritious meal powders making them perfect for those on protein shakes diet plans. However, meal replacements should always be consumed with wholesome food to maintain normal range of calorie intake.

A person using a white scooper to get protein powder from a white container, the powder is in vanilla flavor and a green-and-black-colored tumbler can be seen behind the container, all placed on top of a shiny green surface.

Source: smodj via Canva.com7

Orgain protein powders are vegetarian friendly and catered for those with sensitive stomachs—the ingredients are sourced from both plant and bovine sources that are obtained from global and domestic supplies chosen for superior quality and purity.

Orgain products are certified organic as can be inferred from the name. Organic foods are processed or fresh foods that are produced or processed with the exclusion of synthetic chemicals such as pesticides and do not contain genetically modified organisms (GMO).1

Individuals looking for non-dairy, allergen free, GMO-free and allergen-free shakes have the perfect solution in Orgain products. GMO foods have been linked to health issues such as cancer, compromising immunity and loss of nutrients among other adverse effects.2

Orgain even have a protein powder for those on a keto diet dubbed the keto plant protein powder and marketed as “keto meets vegan friendly”, an indication of the versatility of their products which should seriously be considered by anyone who is not losing weight with herbalife.

The mission of the company is to create products that will help people better their lives through healthier choices and even provide complimentary products for those who are in dire financial hardships or battling illnesses until their situation improves.

Orgain’s Macronutrients & Micronutrients

Orgain’s macronutrients are composed of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, micronutrients are composed of vitamin D, calcium and iron; they are outlined below for the different flavors and types.

Organic protein plant based protein powder – pumpkin spice flavor (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 0 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 90 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 90 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – chai latte flavor (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 7 grams
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 110 milligrams
  • Iron: 5 milligrams
  • Potassium: 110 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – peppermint hot cocoa (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 80 milligrams
  • Iron: 6.2 milligrams
  • Potassium: 270 milligrams

Perfect meal powder flavor (2 scoops [70 grams])

  • Protein: 25 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 30 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 10 grams
  • Total sugars: 6 grams
  • Total fat: 8 grams
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 2.3 micrograms
  • Calcium: 140 milligrams
  • Iron: 7.2 milligrams
  • Potassium: 510 milligrams
  • Vitamin A: 390 milligrams
  • Vitamin E: 4.2 milligrams
  • Riboflavin: 0.02 milligrams
  • Vitamin B1: 0.07 micrograms
  • Vitamin B2: 1.19 micrograms
  • Pantothenic acid: 1.8 micrograms
  • Magnesium: 65 milligrams
  • Copper: 0.33 milligrams
  • Vitamin C: 150 milligrams
  • Thiamine: 0.13 micrograms
  • Niacin: 6.1 micrograms
  • Folate DFE: 65 micrograms
  • Biotine: 19.6 micrograms
  • Iodine: 24 micrograms
  • Zinc: 21 micrograms
  • Chloride: 200 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 4 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 70 milligrams
  • Iron: 6.4 milligrams
  • Potassium: 260 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – cookies ‘n cream (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 100 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.4 milligrams
  • Potassium: 190 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – chocolate peanut butter (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 4.5 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 70 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.3 milligrams
  • Potassium: 380 milligrams

Organic protein and greens plant based protein powder (2 scoops [49 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 18 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 4 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 90 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 90 milligrams

Organic protein and superfoods plant based protein powder (2 scoops [51 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 3 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 60 milligrams
  • Iron: 8 milligrams
  • Potassium: 300 milligrams
  • Vitamin A: 10 micrograms
  • Thiamin: 0.4 milligrams
  • Niacin: 1 milligram
  • Folate: 20 micrograms
  • Pantothenic acid: 1 milligram
  • Vitamin C: 19 milligrams
  • Riboflavin: 0.5 milligrams
  • Vitamin B6: 0.6 milligrams
  • Vitamin B12: 0.1 micrograms
  • Magnesium: 25 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – chocolate caramel sea salt (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 70 milligrams
  • Iron: 6.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 230 milligrams

Grass fed whey protein powder (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 0 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 130 milligrams
  • Iron: 2.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 320 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – vanilla horchata (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 0 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 80 milligrams
  • Iron: 5 milligrams
  • Potassium: 90 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – chocolate coconut (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 80 milligrams
  • Iron: 6.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 240 milligrams

Keto plant protein organic keto-genic protein powder (2 scoops [44 grams])

  • Protein: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 13 grams
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 120 milligrams
  • Iron: 4.2 milligrams
  • Potassium: 290 milligrams

Sport protein organic plant based powder (2 scoops [57 grams])

  • Protein: 30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 14 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 7 grams
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 90 milligrams
  • Iron: 8.8 milligrams
  • Potassium: 310 milligrams

Simple organic plant-based protein powder (2 scoops [38 grams])

  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 3 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 6 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0.1 micrograms
  • Calcium: 60 milligrams
  • Iron: 6.2 milligrams
  • Potassium: 360 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – strawberries and cream (2 scoops [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 0 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 100 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.2 milligrams
  • Potassium: 110 milligrams

 Organic protein and oatmilk plant based protein powder (2 scoops [40 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 12 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 4 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 50 milligrams
  • Iron: 6.4 milligrams
  • Potassium: 300 milligrams

Organic protein plant based protein powder – iced coffee (2 scoops [40 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 0 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 80 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 140 milligrams

Single serve organic protein plant based protein powder (1 packet [46 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 7 grams
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 4 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin A: 0%
  • Calcium: 10%
  • Vitamin C: 0%
  • Iron: 20%

Organic protein plant based protein powder – natural unsweetened (2 scoops [40 grams])

  • Protein: 21 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 7 grams
  • Dietary fiber: less than 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 4.5 grams
  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 40 milligrams
  • Iron: 6 milligrams
  • Potassium: 80 milligrams

Keto collagen protein powder (2 scoops [40 grams])

  • Protein: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 5 grams
  • Calories: 90 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 10 milligrams
  • Iron: 4.4 milligrams
  • Potassium: 260 milligrams

Ingredients in Orgain Protein 

The ingredients in Orgain protein are drawn from both bovine and plant based sources and consist of an average of 18 ingredients depending on the flavor.

On a concrete surface, there is a blue scooper that's tumbled down and the protein powder inside it are spilled, and a yellow tape measure can be seen beside it.

Source: jirkaejc via Canva.com8

Some of the ingredients include organic alkalized cocoa, organic pea protein, organic natural flavors and organic protein blend. The full list of ingredients is below.

  • Xanthan gum
  • Sea salt 
  • Organic acacia gum
  • Organic guar gum
  • Organic natural flavors
  • Orgain organic creamer base consisting of organic rice bran extract, organic acacia gum, organic inulin, organic rice dextrins, organic high oleic sunflower oil and organic rosemary extract
  • Orgain organic protein blend consisting of organic chia seed, pea protein and brown rice protein
  • Organic erythritol 
  • Natural flavor 
  • Alkalized cocoa
  • Organic stevia

An Overview of Vega Protein Powder

The vegan brand was founded by Brendan Brazier, an accomplished endurance athlete and ironman triathlete and the reason for founding this brand was to change the perception of athletes in regards to their nutrition since most brands utilize dairy and meat products.

Vegan protein powder was founded by an athlete and meant for athletes. Its powders are meant for fitness buffs looking to improve their performance; sports players, weight lifters or those looking to improve their physiques or simply want to add them to their plan on how to lose weight for the summer as a means of consuming quality nutrients.

A person is holding a white container of protein powder and using a blue scooper to get some powder, and it appears that the powder is in chocolate flavor.

Source: MartinPrescott via Canva.com9

They are high in protein and have nutrition designed to address muscle repair due to breakdown during exercise—some may ask, when is it too late to drink a protein shake? Vega protein powder can usually be consumed 2 hours after an intensive workout and still have benefits for muscle growth.

This brand seeks to switch the entire concept of nutrition to one that is plant based. Vegas focuses mostly on protein powders but does offer shakes, energy drinks and supplements. 

For the vegetarian, Vega vs Orgain, which would be better? Vega protein is the perfect choice for vegans because it draws its ingredients from all natural sources that are exclusively plant based which results in their powders having little to no side effects on consumers.

The brand also contains essentials that the body requires such as greens and probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms (yeasts and bacteria) that confer health benefits such as prevention of bacterial diarrhea, colic in infants, treatment of periodontal disease etc.3

There are several additives such as flaxseed and hemp protein which are ideal sources of protein and fiber for the digestive system—this product could truly hold a candle to other commercial whey proteins.

Vega has a number of additives that enhance their products which include minerals, super greens, vitamins and branched chain amino acids (BCAA’s). BCAA’s are essential amino acids that aid the body in performance and enhance muscle growth usually present in legumes, dairy and meat products—however, consuming them alone will not be sufficient.4

This blend goes a long way to help maintain fitness levels boosting energy levels. Are protein shakes good for weight loss? They definitely are, especially when combining them with a fitness and resistance training program.

Vega one protein powders are the main focus on their business model and are categorized into three groups:

  • Daily nutrition
  • Sport nutrition
  • Functional wellness

Macronutrients & Micronutrients of Vega Protein Powder

Vegas’s macronutrients are composed of proteins, fat and carbohydrates and micronutrients composed of calcium, potassium and iron are outlined below for the different flavors and types.

Vega one organic all-in-one shake – plant based (1 scoop [38 grams])

  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 6 grams
  • Total sugars: 2 grams
  • Total fat: 3.5 grams
  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 10 micrograms
  • Calcium: 130 milligrams
  • Iron: 4.3 milligrams
  • Potassium: 210 milligrams
  • Vitamin A: 180 micrograms
  • Vitamin K: 60 micrograms
  • Riboflavin: 0.65 milligrams
  • Vitamin B6: 0.85 milligrams
  • Vitamin B12: 1.92 micrograms
  • Pantothenic acid: 2.5 milligrams
  • Magnesium: 25 milligrams
  • Vitamin C: 45 milligrams
  • Thiamin: 0.6 milligrams
  • Niacin: 8 milligrams
  • Folate: 32 micrograms
  • Biotin: 15 micrograms
  • Phosphorous: 250 milligrams
  • Chlorine: 60 milligrams

Vega protein and greens – plant based protein powder (1 scoop [33 grams])

  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 7 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 2.5 grams
  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 180 milligrams
  • Iron: 4.3 milligrams
  • Potassium: 240 milligrams
  • Vitamin A: 50 micrograms
  • Vitamin K: 30 micrograms
  • Vitamin C: 5 milligrams

Vega real food smoothie (1 scoop [40 grams])

  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 9 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 3.5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 1000 milligrams
  • Iron: 4.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 290 milligrams
  • Vitamin A: 20 micrograms
  • Vitamin K: 12 micrograms

Vega protein made simple – plant-based protein powder (2 scoops [26 grams])

  • Protein: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 7 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 6 grams
  • Total fat: 2 grams
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 110 milligrams
  • Iron: 1.7 milligrams
  • Potassium: 40 milligrams
  • Choline: 60 milligrams

Vega essentials – plant-based protein powder (2 scoops [26 grams])

  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 7 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 3 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 4 grams
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 2.5 micrograms
  • Calcium: 210 milligrams
  • Iron: 4.5 milligrams
  • Potassium: 240 milligrams
  • Vitamin A: 40 micrograms
  • Vitamin K: 30 micrograms
  • Vitamin C: 24 milligrams
  • Vitamin E: 30 micrograms
  • Thiamin: 0.3 milligrams
  • Riboflavin: 0.42 milligrams
  • Niacin: 6.1 milligrams
  • Vitamin B6: 0.5 milligrams
  • Vitamin B12: 0.42 micrograms
  • Biotin: 75 micrograms
  • Pantothenic acid: 2.5 milligrams
  • Phosphorous: 250 milligrams
  • Magnesium: 80 milligrams

Vega sport premium – plant based protein powder (1 scoop [41 grams])

  • Protein: 30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 4 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 2 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 3.5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 260 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.5 milligrams
  • Potassium: 120 milligrams

Vega sport protein – plant-based protein powder (1 scoop [43 grams])

  • Protein: 30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 6 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 3 grams
  • Total sugars: 2 grams
  • Total fat: 3.5 grams
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 180 milligrams
  • Iron: 5.5 milligrams
  • Potassium: 200 milligrams

Vega sport nighttime rest and repair – plant-based recovery protein (1 scoop [27 grams])

  • Protein: 23.7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 2 grams
  • Calories: 100 kcal
  • Calcium: 130 milligrams
  • Iron: 2.4 milligrams
  • Potassium: 130 milligrams
  • Magnesium: 40 milligrams
  • Sodium: 180 milligrams

Vega hello wellness spring in your step flavor (1 scoop [28 grams])

  • Protein: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 7 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 0 grams
  • Total fat: 2 grams
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 5 micrograms
  • Calcium: 120 milligrams
  • Iron: 2.1 milligrams
  • Potassium: 100 milligrams
  • Vitamin B12: 0.48 micrograms
  • Choline: 30 milligrams

Vega hello wellness you’ve got guts (1 scoop [29 grams])

  • Protein: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 9 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 5 grams
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 2 grams
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 0 micrograms
  • Calcium: 110 milligrams
  • Iron: 2.8 milligrams
  • Potassium: 180 milligrams
  • Phosphorous: 150 milligrams
  • Choline: 30 milligrams

Vega hello wellness it’s a no brainer (1 scoop [27 grams])

  • Protein: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 5 grams
  • Dietary fiber: 1 gram
  • Total sugars: 1 gram
  • Total fat: 2 grams
  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Vitamin D: 10 micrograms
  • Calcium: 140 milligrams
  • Iron: 2.3 milligrams
  • Potassium: 60 milligrams
  • Vitamin C: 20 milligrams
  • Thiamin: 50 micrograms
  • Riboflavin: 30 micrograms
  • Niacin: 4 milligrams
  • Vitamin B6: 0.43 milligrams
  • Biotin: 7.5 micrograms
  • Pantothenic: 1.3 milligrams
  • Phosphorous: 210 milligrams
  • Magnesium: 45 milligrams
  • Choline: 90 milligrams

Vega Protein Powder Ingredients

Vega protein powder draws its ingredients strictly from plant based sources and there are no animal or dairy proteins contained.

A white scoop filled with vanilla protein powder and placed on top of vanilla powder spills, and a pattern can be seen that seemed like the scoop was dragged on the way to the left.

Source: Jun via Canva.com10

The list of ingredients include natural flavors, brown rice protein, xanthan gum and spinach. The full list appears below.

  • Organic alfalfa grass powder
  • Brown rice protein
  • Xanthan gum
  • Pea protein
  • Broccoli powder 
  • Stevia leaf extract 
  • Organic kale powder
  • Papain powder
  • Pea starch
  • Natural flavors 
  • Sacha inchi protein
  • Spinach powder

Vega Sport Protein Vs Orgain: Flavors and Taste & Reviews

Vega vs Orgain? In terms of taste, both brands have received overwhelmingly positive reviews which is a tribute to the myriad of flavors that they have on offer—Vega’s powders are targeted for sportspeople and have an array of powders that have very low levels of sugar, probiotics, greens and several herbs. Vegas powders do have a limited range of flavors available when compared to Orgain.

Orgain’s products are children friendly and it is easy to whisk a nutritious smoothie using their products. This brand has a plethora of choices when it comes to flavors—they offer a colossal 22 flavors in their protein powders with many of them receiving positively acclamation reviews; one only needs to go to their website to witness this. Their flavors include peppermint hot cocoa, chai latte, pumpkin spice, chocolate caramel sea salt and chocolate coconut; their selection is mind boggling.

Both brands of powders have proved to have excellent dissolvability qualities and very easy to mix with water, so much so that a customer jokingly commented that Orgain’s powders can be mixed just by looking at them! Vega’s sport premium protein assortment may leave chunks when using a shaker, however, a blender fixes this issue.

The aftertaste of stevia which may be unpopular to others is very much reduced in both brands; stevia is a sweetener that is natural and derived from the leaves of the stevia rebaudiana. Although the reviews for both brands are polarized on this topic, many consumers state the stevia sweetness is a tad too much in Orgain’s products, but both brands don’t have the synthetic taste that is synonymous with conventional protein powders.

In terms of taste, Orgain’s shakes are hands down the winner with not only more flavors to choose from but with the majority of them being very creamy and delicious. Vega’s powders are somewhat thicker than Orgain’s although this could be the preference of some.

Price Comparison of Vega & Orgain

When compared to many protein powders on the market that are not organic, both Vega and Orgain are reasonably priced than these non-organic options considering their superior quality—however when compared between the two, Orgain products come out on top, as the most gentle on someone’s wallet.

Most of Orgain’s protein powders come in the 2.03 lbs. tub which retail on the company’s website for $39.99 or on Amazon and Walmart. They can be bought offline for around $30 at Costco for the 2.74 lbs. tub, but the options on flavors are limited. There is more variety online, albeit the slightly higher prices. In addition, Orgain’s clients can subscribe to automatically have their orders recur for their favorite flavor with no subscription cost. 

When they subscribe, the first purchase drops down to $25.99 and subsequent orders get a 10% discount which translates to a $36 cost. It’s likely that those consuming these delicious and nutritious products will do so on a regular basis, therefore subscription and the savings that follow makes sense.

Vega on the other hand, is slightly more pricey and can be sourced from the company’s website and on Amazon and Walmart. Its availability comes in a small container of ten servings, a larger one at 20 servings and a box containing 10 single packs.

Its large container of 20 servings is about the same as the tub offered by Orgain. These retail for $39.79 to $43.29 making them the slightly expensive choice.

Vega vs Orgain? The bottom line is that Orgain’s products are friendlier on the wallet, but the price difference is not that much and should not have too much bearing on the decision of the consumer.

Are Vega & Orgain Healthy?

Vega and Orgain powders and shakes are a very healthy choice for those looking for meal replacements and protein supplements. They are both made from high quality ingredients—Vega is a gluten free powder rich in protein derived from pea and brown rice and a blend of healthy green consisting of organic kale powder, spinach powder and broccoli powder. 

How much broccoli should you eat to lose weight? About 8 lbs., if eaten for a straight month in an extreme scenario, but the addition of this healthy vegetable makes Vega proteins quite wholesome. This fusion allows for easier muscle growth and weight loss. Their products are also vegan friendly.

Orgain’s products on the other hand are manufactured from organic sources packed with highly nutritious and highest grade ingredients. The powders are gluten free, non GMO, free of artificial colors, preservatives and sweeteners. Orgain uses stevia and erythritol rather than sugar which are both healthier sweeteners—erythritol is a sugar alcohol and an organic compound that is naturally occurring.

Vega and Orgain’s products are not only healthy, but can help someone in their journey to losing weight and packing on muscle while enjoying a variety of delicious flavors.

Vega Vs Orgain? Which One is Better for Weight Loss?

Both Vega and Orgain have meal replacement shakes and powders that can be used to swap 1 or even 2 regular meals but which one is better for weight loss? Vega’s “all-in-one” meal replacement shake is at 150 kcal for the organic version and 170 kcal for the regular one and provides half the daily needs for minerals and 12 vitamins which makes it nutritional. 

By substituting the organic shake for a regular meal which can be an ideal time of when to drink protein shakes for weight loss, someone can consume 40 grams of high quality protein at about 300 kcal which is excellent for shedding fat or those simply looking for a shortcut by obtaining a calorie deficit without exercise

Orgain’s meal shake has a higher calorie count at 240 which is higher than Vega’s, but this is still pretty relatively low. They also have a keto powder as mentioned before which has a lower amount of carbs similar to herbalife shakes carbs.

Between the two, Vega is better for weight loss than Orgain.

Are Vega & Orgain Safe of Heavy Metals & Other Contaminants? 

Heavy metals and other contaminants have been reported in many protein powders and especially those that are plant based which contain higher amounts—both brands may contain heavy metals and other contaminants. 

The soil contains heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium that naturally occur in the Earth and are absorbed by the roots and bones and hides of cows that graze which means this concern is also shared by fresh produce that is grown at home such as broccoli or store bought spinach. These plants and animals are the sources of ingredients for both these brands and exposure is inevitable. 

However, both brands declare that their products are tested under strict standards with the supervision of federal and state regulations and are manufactured as per U.S. Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) established by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensuring products are safe to use and ingredient claims are valid.5

In addition, research shows that exposure to heavy metals through protein powders does not pose a health or carcinogenic (cancer causing) risk to those who consume it and such claims are unwarranted.6 Therefore, both brands are safe from heavy metals and contaminants and there should be no danger of having them as a protein source for those looking on how to lose weight in 7 days.

Summary of Vega vs Orgain: Which Is Better Overall?  

In summary, both brands have pros and cons but both compete for the title of best meal replacements on the market for those looking for healthier and safer options that offer high quality nutrition.

Choosing between the two brands is like making a choice between shakeology vs slimfast since they are both excellent products that serve a particular niche.

Two white scoops full of protein powder, one scoop is filled with chocolate powder and behind is the other scoop filled with vanilla powder, the powders are also spilled on the white surface where the scoops are displayed.

Source: A’s Images via Canva.com11

With that being said, Orgain is clearly ahead of Vega in terms of flavors offered, but also that it is filled with over 50 super foods including buckwheat, quinoa and grains and has child friendly products.

The table below summarizes the strengths and weaknesses giving an idea of which is better overall; (X) denotes the winner in the category.

The table compares the two products in various categories including protein, macronutrient, micronutrient, healthy ingredients, weight loss, BCAA, budget-friendly, flavor, taste, athlete suitability, least sugar, calories, and dissolvability, the table displays an "X" in the respective column to indicate the winner in each category.

Choosing between Vega and Orgain can be tricky because both brands provide refreshing alternatives to the conventional protein powder market, both having strengths and weaknesses when compared to each other in terms of flavor, nutrients, ingredient and price.

All in all, Orgain may be a better protein shake since it has more protein, less calories, healthier ingredients, and super foods in some blends. However, Vega is more of an all-in-one meal replacement and is lower in calories so may be better for weight loss. So when it comes to Vega vs Orgain, you can’t really go wrong with either but one may be better served for different uses and/or inviduals preferences. 


References

1Wikipedia. (2022, November 4). Organic food. Retrieved 2022, from <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_food>

2Behrokh Mohajer Maghari, A. M. (2011, July). Genetically Modified Foods and Social Concerns. Retrieved 2022, from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3558185/>

3Services, U. D. (2019, August). Probiotics: What You Need To Know. Retrieved 2022, from <https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know>

4Wolfe, R. R. (2017, August 17). Branched-chain amino acids and muscle protein synthesis in humans: myth or reality? Retrieved 2022, from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5568273/>

5Administration, U. F. (2020, September 21). Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) Regulations. Retrieved 2022, from <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/pharmaceutical-quality-resources/current-good-manufacturing-practice-cgmp-regulations>

6Suren B. Bandara, K. M. (2020, August 21). A human health risk assessment of heavy metal ingestion among consumers of protein powder supplements. Retrieved 2022, from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7509468/>

7smodj. Canva. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEbovWfZ6M-protein-powder/>

8jirkaejc. Canva. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MADnBPwEMig-whey-protein-powder/>

9MartinPrescott. Canva. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEFBgP8C4U-protein-powder/>

10Jun. Canva. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MADChzR3G0g-protein-powder/>

11A’s Images. Canva. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.canva.com/photos/MAE3XqTDArM-protein-powder/>

12“3 VEGA Protein Powders? Which One is Best for YOU!” YouTube, 26 August 2014. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0DXeryf-Ec>

13“Q & Andrew: Orgain Organic Protein Powder.” YouTube, 19 October 2018. Accessed 15 April 2023. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVDEc3a2a-s>

About the Author

Nathan Petitpas

Nathan has been a fitness enthusiast for the past 12 years and jumps between several types of training such as bodybuilding, powerlifting, cycling, gymnastics, and backcountry hiking. Due to the varying caloric needs of numerous sports, he has cycled between all types of diets and currently eats a whole food diet. In addition, Nathan lives with several injuries such as hip impingement, spondylolisthesis, and scoliosis, so he underwent self-rehabilitation and no longer lives with debilitating pain.