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Two peas not from the same pod

 

I think we can all agree – peas make a great source of protein. Why? Pea protein offers an alternative to those wanting a meat-free option or can’t tolerate other protein powders like soy or whey. Pea crops are Earth-friendly; they require less water and don’t need nitrogen fertilisers (they naturally pull nitrogen from the air and store it in their roots). Not to mention, peas themselves are low-allergenic and are a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids.

However, not all pea proteins are the same. Between each manufacturer, striking differences exist in their nutritional quality, sustainability and performance. Our number one priority is to provide the best for your body. So let’s dive deep into the differences between pea protein powders and how you can get the best for yourself.

 

Anna Thompson-Ford - the founder of Pro You NZ

Our founder Anna explains everything you need to know about good quality Pea Protein Isolate.

What is high-quality pea protein?

Manufacturers producing good quality pea protein should cultivate and manufacture in an eco-friendly way. They should use sustainable farming practices with minimal water, fertiliser, and pesticide use. Ideally, the peas are grown locally too.

The pea protein should also be of high nutritional value. For example, the protein is high in amino acids and low in non-nutritional factors like fillers. 

Lastly, it needs superior applicability. Simply put: it performs. A pea protein with a high solubility will mix easily in liquid and have no grittiness or unpleasant aftertaste. This is what distinguishes an average pea protein from a great one. Because peas naturally produce a gritty texture, innovation and R&D are required here.

Where does your pea protein come from?

Pea protein comes from all over the globe – from China, the USA, and Canada to Europe. It’s good to know where your Pea Protein comes from as different countries have different regulatory standards around production, processing, and labeling. For example, the term ‘organic’ has unique criteria across the different regions. As a start, we would recommend looking for Non-GMO certification and information on where the raw protein comes from, so you can do your own research on its quality and effectiveness.

For our Pea Protein Blend, Pro You uses Cosucra’s trademarked PISANE™ pea protein isolate. Cosucra takes peas grown locally in the Baltic region and processes them in its facilities located in Denmark – giving them farm to fork traceability. Their peas are GMO-free, farmed using minimal water and free from fertilisers and other nasties. 

Why Cosucra’s PISANE™ pea protein is superior:

  • contains high levels of essential amino acids. It’s especially high in amino acid’s lysine and leucine – assisting in various bodily processes like muscle retention and maintaining a healthy gut
  • is easily digestible (98% digestible, to be precise) and so, easy on the tummy
  • is highly soluble – helping it mix into beverages with zilch unpleasant grittiness

Winner, winner – pea protein dinner…

Good Quality Vs Average Quality – How to spot the difference

Visually, pea protein may all look similar – so how do you tell whether what you’re buying and putting into your body is good quality? 

Asking these questions is a great place to start –

  1. Is the brand open to sharing where they source their pea protein from (and any other ingredients, for that matter)?
  2. Does the supplier mention their pesticide, fertiliser and water usage?
  3. Does the supplier mention where the peas are grown? 
  4. Does the supplier mention any innovation to heighten the performance of their protein powder?

So to sum up, pea protein is a superb, meat-free choice of protein. But as they’re not all grown and made alike, it’s worth taking steps to maximise your nutrition whilst choosing the more sustainable option and of course loving the taste!

Want more info on our protein powder range? Anna answers all your questions on Pro You Protein Blend‘s including the 13 vitamins inside each tin and their benefits. Click here to find the blog.

We’re an open book here at Pro You – If you have any questions or queries, you are always free to email us at [email protected].

Stay well and speak soon,
Anna and the Pro You Team