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Nutrition

A Comparison of Whey, Plant & Collagen Protein

January 20, 2025

A Comparison of Whey, Plant & Collagen Protein

Since the dawn of protein powder time, the whey vs plant protein discussion has long been debated. What protein powder is the most effective? Which one is right for your goals? And what about whey vs plant vs collagen?

Don’t worry, we’ve heard it all. So get ready for the ‘weigh in’ – pun intended – on our comparison of whey, plant and collagen proteins, including where they come from, how they differ and how to choose the right option for your lifestyle.

Whey vs Plant vs Collagen: What’s the Difference?

The biggest difference between whey, plant and collagen protein comes down to their source and nutritional composition.

  • Whey protein is derived from dairy during the cheesemaking process. Whey protein naturally contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein.
  • Plant protein is derived from plant sources such as pea, rice, hemp and seeds. Individual plant proteins can vary in their amino acid profiles, which is why some products combine multiple plant protein sources.
  • Collagen protein is derived from animal collagen found in connective tissues such as skin and hides. Collagen is a source of protein and contains amino acids including glycine, proline and hydroxyproline.

Each type has its own characteristics, so the best choice ultimately comes down to your dietary preferences, nutritional needs and how you want to use your protein powder.

Clean Plant Protein Range Thriving Family Range

Plant-Based Protein

Plant proteins are made by extracting protein from plants and processing it into a powdered form. Common plant protein sources include pea, rice, hemp, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, coconut, chia and soy.

Nutra Naturals Clean Plant Protein combines organic pea, brown rice, coconut and pumpkin seed proteins to provide a broad amino acid profile. It also contains digestive enzymes including cellulase, lactase, protease, amylase and lipase, as well as magnesium, iron and phosphorus.

For families, Thriving Family combines plant-based protein with 17 vitamins and minerals. It's a versatile option designed to help make everyday nutrition a little simpler for the whole family.

As with any supplement, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with your healthcare professional about whether the product is appropriate for you.

Nutra Naturals Whey Range

Our whey range includes two different options, depending on how you like to enjoy your protein.

  • Organic Whey Protein → is made with whey protein concentrate and provides 23g of protein per serve. It's smooth, creamy and versatile enough for shakes, baking and recipes.
  • Protein Water → is made with whey protein isolate and provides 22g of protein per serve. It's light, refreshing and an easy option when you want to add protein to your day without a creamy shake.

What sets our whey apart is its origin. Our whey is made from certified organic, pasture-raised New Zealand dairy, with the cows spending more than 90% of their time outdoors on a grass-rich diet.

Nutra Naturals Whey Proteins
Collagen Protein Range

Collagen Protein

Collagen Protein is derived from animal collagen found in connective tissues such as skin and hides.

Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the body and is one of the major structural proteins found in connective tissues.

Nutra Naturals Collagen Protein contains targeted Bioactive Collagen Peptides (Types I & III) and magnesium. It's unflavoured and easy to add to smoothies, coffee, water or everyday recipes.

Collagen Joints + Bones contains FORTIGEL® Bioactive Collagen Peptides, vitamin D and calcium. It's another option for those looking to include collagen protein alongside key nutrients in their daily diet.

Plant protein for muscle growth

Protein plays an important role in maintaining and building muscle. It provides amino acids, which are used by the body for a wide range of everyday functions.

Plant-based protein can absolutely be part of a diet that supports muscle maintenance and development. The key is ensuring you're getting enough total protein throughout the day and choosing protein sources that work for your individual dietary preferences.

Clean Plant Protein can be added to smoothies, protein pancakes, baking or other recipes as an easy way to increase your daily protein intake.

Whey and plant proteins can both be useful options for people who are looking to increase their protein intake, while collagen offers a different amino acid profile and is often chosen for its versatility and easy incorporation into everyday routines.

For families, Thriving Family combines plant protein with 17 vitamins and minerals, making it an easy addition to snacks, smoothies and recipes.

Buy 3 get 1 free thriving bundle SHOP THE BUNDLE

The Health Benefits of Protein

No matter where it comes from, protein is an essential macronutrient and an important building block for the body.

For children, adequate protein is an important part of normal growth and development. For adults, protein contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass.

A balanced diet with a variety of wholefood protein sources is always the foundation. But sometimes life gets busy, and that's where protein powders can provide a convenient way to add protein to your everyday routine.

If you're unsure how much protein you need or which option is right for you, speak with a qualified healthcare professional or nutritionist.

⚡ Tip: If you’re unsure of the right type or amount of protein for you, it’s always best to check with a healthcare professional.

Which Protein Is Best for Your Goals?

There's no single protein that's right for everyone. Here's a simple guide to help you choose:

Making Your Choice: A Quick Guide

Still unsure? Here’s a simple framework:

  • Choose Whey if you want a complete dairy-based protein that's versatile and easy to use in shakes, baking and recipes.
    Nutra pick: Organic Whey Protein or Protein Water
  • Choose Plant if you prefer a dairy-free or vegan-friendly protein source.
    Nutra pick: Clean Plant Protein
  • Choose if you;re looking for plant-based protein combined with a blend of vitamins and minerals for everyday family nutrition.
    Nutra pick: Thriving Family

And remember, you don't necessarily have to choose just one. Different protein sources can be incorporated into your diet depending on your preferences, meals and routine.

Whey Protein
Plant Protein
Collagen Protein

✨Many people combine proteins — for example, Whey or Clean for workouts, plus Collagen for recovery, or Collagen Joints + Bones for joint and bone nutrition. 

The last word

When it comes to whey vs plant vs collagen protein, there's no universal winner.

The right option depends on your dietary preferences, nutritional needs, lifestyle and how you like to use your protein.

Whether you're blending a creamy whey shake, adding plant protein to your morning smoothie or stirring collagen into your coffee, protein powders can be a convenient addition to a balanced and varied diet.

At Nutra Naturals, we've got options for all kinds of routines, from active lifestyles and everyday protein to family nutrition, hydration and collagen.

So choose the one that works for you – and make protein part of your routine in a way that feels delicious, simple and sustainable.

FAQs about plant protein vs whey protein

Can you gain muscle with plant protein?

Yes. Plant-based protein can contribute to muscle maintenance and development when consumed as part of a balanced diet that provides adequate protein and energy, alongside regular resistance exercise.

Does plant protein have creatine?

Plant proteins do not naturally provide significant amounts of creatine. Creatine is naturally found primarily in animal-derived foods.

If you're considering adding a creatine supplement to your routine, particularly for specific training or performance goals, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Can I mix plant and whey protein?

Yes. Plant and whey proteins can be combined, although the flavour, texture and consistency will depend on the products you're using.

Mixing different protein sources can also be an easy way to experiment with flavours and find what works best for your routine.

Which plant protein is healthiest?

There isn't one plant protein that's universally the “healthiest”. Different protein sources have different nutritional profiles, so consider factors such as protein content, ingredients, amino acid profile and your individual dietary requirements.

A varied diet containing a range of wholefood protein sources is a great place to start.

Can you eat plant protein every day?

Plant-based protein powders can be included daily as part of a balanced and varied diet. Follow the recommended serving size on the product and aim to include a variety of wholefood protein sources throughout the day.