• Alyssa Fontaine, RD
• Aug 11, 2025

Best Protein Powder for Kids 

If you have been advised that your child might need protein powders by a healthcare professional, we are here to help.

The multi-billion-dollar protein powder industry puts out endless products made with all types of protein sources and ingredients. We will take you through the basics of protein powders for kids and highlight options available for your little one. For more general information on protein powders, click here.

The Role of Protein for Kids

Before we head further, we need to know what protein is. Protein is a macronutrient, just like carbohydrates and fat. Protein’s role in a growing child is to support organs, muscles and skin. 

Why Might Some Kids Need Protein Supplements?

With the recent protein popularity among grown-ups to use supplements, should our children also have protein supplements? Well, our kids have a different set of nutritional needs. The need for supplements should be discussed with a dietitian and/or a doctor and should be personalized for your child.

Children who tend to need protein supplements may have:

• Allergies 
• Picky eating
• Diets limited in protein 
• Certain medical conditions
• A very active lifestyle  

If your child is vegan or vegetarian and you are concerned about their protein intake, we can help!

What to Look for in Protein Powders

Limit Added Sugars

Try to look for minimally sugar-enhanced powders. Excessive sugar has no nutritional value and can cause tooth decay and weight gain.

Limit Artificial Sugar Sweeteners and Sugar Substitutes

The effect of sweeteners like Stevia and sucralose in children are not clear. Depending on the amount, they may cause stomach issues.

No Caffeine

While there may be little bits of caffeine in foods like chocolate, caffeine in protein powders can be too high. While many protein powders don’t have caffeine, it is still a good practice to double-check the ingredient list.

Third-Party Testing Logos

All supplements are not strictly regulated by the FDA or by Health Canada. However there are other ways to check for safety standards.

For Canadians, some protein powders may have a Natural Health Product number which has met Canadian health standards. For example, the number will show like this: NPN 12345678

For Americans (or a Canadian buying an American product) check for reliable third-party companies that do test quality and safety.

Certified seals examples to look for:

Risks with Taking Protein Powders

• Too much protein may cause a strain on the kidneys, leading to dehydration. Make sure to use an appropriate amount and keep your child hydrated.
• Some allergens can be present, even in traces. Make sure to check over the ingredient list and third party seals to avoid undeclared allergen traces. 
• The sweet-tasting protein mixes may turn your child away from whole foods. Remember, supplements do not replace meals; they are an addition!

Protein Powders

Here are some great suggestions that are on the market:

Canada

• Garden of Life – Contains: Milk, egg, soy and tree nuts. Third party tested.
• Progressive Harmonized Protein – Contains milk and soy. Has NPN.
• Vega Protein Powder – Vegan. Tested by a third party.
• Biosteel Protein Powder – Contains milk, soy, egg, sesame, tree nuts, peanut, shellfish, wheat
• Boost – JUST Protein – Contains milk and soy. There is no third party seal but is used in Canadian healthcare settings.

USA

• Momentous Essential Protein Powder – Contains milk. Third party tested.
• Thorne Whey Protein Powder–  Contains milk. Third party tested.
• Klean Athlete Protein Powder – Contains milk. Third party tested.
• Puori Protein Powder – Contains milk. Third party tested.
• Garden Life Organic Protein Powder – Plant based. Third Party tested. Has artificial sweeteners.

Please note that these protein powders are marketed toward adults and the amount suggested on the packaging should be changed for your child! Our dietitians can provide a personalized and safe dose for your child.

Protein-Rich Foods

Before turning to supplements, you may want to try foods that are rich sources of protein. Besides, food is our natural fuel and is the most efficient. Contact us for a dietitian to find fun and creative ways to incorporate protein sources in their meals and snacks.

• Eggs
• Greek yogurt
• Cheese
• Milk (higher protein milk) or fortified soy milk
• Chicken, turkey, beef, or fish
• Tofu, lentils, and beans
• Nut butters and seeds
• Oats and whole grain breads

Bottom Line

It’s important to choose safe, reliable products, keeping in mind the potential risks. With us dietitians and your doctor, we can help guide and safely implement protein powders into your child’s diet.