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Best Beef Protein Powder For Muscle Building 2024
Updated on
- Written by Karla Tafra, Nutritionist
Medically reviewed by
Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN
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MuscleMeds Carnivor Beef Protein Isolate
- 100% beef protein isolate
- 350% more concentrated in amino acids than a steak
- Sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and free of any artificial ingredient
Julian Bakery Paleo Thin Grass Fed Beef Protein
- Grass-fed beef protein powder
- Sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, no artificial ingredients
- Low-calorie and low in carbohydrates
Olympian Labs Beef Protein Isolate
- High in the amino acid alanine which improves energy expenditure and increases performance
- High in anabolic amino acids hydroxyproline and proline for muscle gain
- Affordable
Anyone looking to improve their muscle size and strength knows they need to focus on increasing their protein intake and figure out exactly how much protein they need depending on their weight, fitness level, and physique goals.
Men and women have different protein needs and absorption abilities, mostly due to hormones and their effect on the body. Women generally tend to need less protein than men, even when their workout regimen aims to lower their body fat to minimal numbers.
Sources of protein come from food or supplements, and they’re mostly derived from animal products. Even though whey-based protein powders are the most widespread and widely available, beef protein powder has been slowly creeping onto store shelves.
Beef protein powder comes from beef, and it became popular in recent years thanks to those who started enjoying and following the paleo diet. Beef protein powder is made by boiling the beef, and skimming the liquid off the top to create a nutrient-rich liquid which is then skimmed to remove the fat and carbohydrate content.
This diet allows for no dairy; therefore, you have only two options: get your protein powder from some sort of meat source or go vegan. The paleo diet includes a variety of animal sources on their list, but not dairy. That’s why beef protein powder is great, even for those[1] who are lactose intolerant.
Let’s discover the five best beef protein powders on the market in 2024.
5 Best Beef Protein Powders For Muscle Building On The Market In (April. 2024)
- MuscleMeds Carnivor Beef Protein Isolate – Editor’s Choice
- Julian Bakery Paleo Thin Grass-Fed Beef Protein – Best Grass-Fed
- Olympian Labs Beef Protein Isolate – Best Budget-Friendly
- Equip Foods Prime Protein Grass-Fed Beef Isolate Powder – Best Clean Protein
- BulkSupplements Beef Protein Isolate – Best Clean Affordable
Best Beef Protein Powders For Muscle Building In 2024
MuscleMeds Carnivor Beef Protein Isolate
Beef protein isolates coming from MuscleMeds is a pure beef protein powder that’s perfect for those looking to increase their muscle strength without adding whey into their diet.
- 100% beef protein isolate
- 350% more concentrated in amino acids than a steak
- Sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and free of any artificial ingredient
- Although it’s sugar-free, it’s sweetened with maltodextrin which is known to cause digestive issues in some people as well as negatively impact[2] their blood glucose levels.
When it comes to beef protein powders, MuscleMeds is the pioneer brand. They’re known for their pure beef protein isolate and other beef protein supplements, promoting muscle growth, fat loss, and overall performance.
The isolate protein powder is stripped off of additional fats and is therefore completely lean and rich in anabolic amino acids, promoting healthy muscle gain.
This product undergoes a six-stage purification process that leaves only pure beef protein behind, making it easier on the gut and more bioavailable for amino acid absorption.
Their protein powder is gluten-free, dairy-free, artificial-ingredient-free, without any genetically modified organisms (GMO), and sugar-free. Unfortunately, it contains maltodextrin, which is known to create some digestive problems and cause a glucose spike in some people.
Julian Bakery Paleo Thin Grass Fed Beef Protein
For those who are always choosing grass-fed, the beef protein powder from Julian Bakery is one of the best options. It’s creamy, delicious, and easy to absorb.
- Grass-fed beef protein powder
- Sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, no artificial ingredients
- Low-calorie and low in carbohydrates
- Can be expensive when compared to other beef protein powders on the market
- Often out of stock
One of the best beef protein powders comes from Julian Bakery, and it’s their Paleo Thin Grass Feed Beef Protein. Made from hydro-beef, or grass-fed beef, it comes with zero artificial ingredients, sugars, gluten, GMO, or additives.
It’s been tested and ensured free from hormones and antibiotics, and it’s only sweetened with natural stevia, making it easier on the stomach and delicious.
It comes in two flavors, chocolate and vanilla, both of which are made with real cocoa powder and vanilla bean. The vanilla flavor has added probiotics to help feed your gut microbiome and increase nutrient absorption.
Olympian Labs Beef Protein Isolate
Olympian Labs Beef Protein Isolate is a great protein powder for those who are interested in trying beef protein powder but don’t want to break the bank.
- High in the amino acid alanine which improves energy expenditure and increases performance
- High in amino acids hydroxyproline and proline for muscle gain
- Affordable
- Contains added sugars
One of the most affordable beef protein powders comes from Olympian Labs. Their beef protein isolate is low in fat and high in the amino acids hydroxyproline and proline, which have a strong effect on muscle growth and fat loss. Its formula is also high in alanine which helps you push through even the hardest workouts.
Containing no lactose or GMO, this product is easy to digest and highly bioavailable. It does contain some added sugars, but it’s only two grams per serving, and most of the sweetening comes from stevia, so it shouldn’t cause a high blood sugar spike.
Equip Foods Prime Protein Grass-Fed Beef Isolate Powder
If you’re looking for a beef protein powder with the cleanest ingredients, Equip Foods has just the perfect product. Made with only natural ingredients, it’s easier on the stomach and equips you with just the right nutrients to support your health and fitness goals.
- Only one ingredient: grass-fed beef
- Four ounces (oz) of beef in each serving
- All-natural ingredients
- Expensive
The cleanest beef protein powder comes from Equip Foods. Their grass-fed prime protein is made from grass-fed beef and provides four ounces of beef in each serving. The product is free from any artificial filler, additive, thickening agent, sweeteners, or preservatives and is sugar-free, gluten-free, and of course, dairy-free.
The unsweetened version literally contains no other ingredients than beef, and the three delicious flavors (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry) are made with natural, wholesome ingredients such as cocoa powder, vanilla bean, coconut cream, and even beet juice.
The flavored versions are also sweetened with stevia, making them easy to digest and delicious to eat. Unfortunately, it’s a bit pricey, but with the purity and cleanliness of the ingredients, it just might be worth it.
BulkSupplements Beef Protein Isolate
Another clean beef protein that won’t make you spend a ton of money comes from Bulk Supplements. Their one-kilogram packaging is affordable and comes without any added ingredients.
- Only one ingredient
- Supports muscle building and aids recovery
- Supports a better and healthier body composition
- Manufactured in a facility that adheres to Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations enforced by the Food and Drug Administration FDA
- Not grass-fed beef
Bulk Supplements is a well-trusted brand with generally clean products. Their beef protein isolate may not come from grass-fed beef, but it’s completely free of any other ingredient except pure beef.
They pride themselves on the purity and quality of their product, making it a great option for those looking to increase their muscle size. Additionally, it will help lower their cholesterol and body fat percentage, as well as improve their daily protein intake if they’re struggling to meet even the basic requirements.
Additionally, the product is third-party tested, lab verified, and adheres to current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) issued by the FDA.
Who Should Take Beef-Based Protein Powder?
Beef protein supplements are great for those who are looking to increase their muscle mass, improve their fitness, and promote fat loss, all while avoiding whey protein and dairy. If you’re lactose intolerant, beef protein powder might be an amazing option for you as it shouldn’t create digestive discomfort as it doesn’t contain lactose like whey protein powder.
Some people say that beef protein is less bioavailable than whey protein and is therefore hard to absorb, but it comes with higher levels of important micronutrients and trace elements such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Benefits Of Beef Protein Powder
Although there is not too much research surrounding beef protein powder, the studies that are out there show its vast anabolic properties[3] and a positive effect[4] on fat loss.
But even if no other unique benefits are found, these two are plenty enough for someone who wants to increase their lean muscle mass, improve their performance in the gym, and lose fat in the process.
Beef protein powder has all the essential amino acids and the same nutrient profile as pure beef meat, but when created in powder form, it’s easier to absorb and digest, especially in the form of beef isolate powder.
In regards to whether or not it’s better than whey protein the existing studies[5] did not find any special differences in strength or performance, but they do showcase beef’s better anabolic activity and influence on the overall body composition.
Consuming any protein powder makes it easier to increase your protein intake for the day, which works well for those who don’t have much time to cook and prepare meals at home, risking a protein deficiency.
Even without the goal of gaining muscle, an adequate amount of protein is necessary for overall health and longevity.
Additionally, beef contains collagen that is known to be extremely beneficial[6] to the health of your nails, skin, and hair, giving this ingredient additional health benefits. Most beef protein powders contain collagen and gelatin.
How Much Beef-Based Protein Powder Should You Take?
Protein needs may vary depending on weight, age, and activity level, protein needs may vary. According[7] to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the general Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 0.8 grams of protein per body weight in kilograms (g/kg). Still, a person’s needs should be individualized to their lifestyle.
Obviously, many factors contribute to a person’s protein needs from your age, weight, sex, and activity levels, to your daily diet, muscle mass, overall health, and whether or not you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
The ideal numbers are different for everyone, but it’s important to know how much protein you need as an individual so you know you’re not losing muscle mass and that you’re getting the right amounts to support your health and fitness goals.
How To Choose The Best Beef Protein Supplements
The best beef protein powder supplements need to have some distinct features that will ensure their quality and potency so that you’re getting the best effects on your body composition. Some of the most important factors that influence beef protein products include
Grass-fed Protein
Any protein powder that comes from grass-fed cows is higher in quality, more bioavailable, and easier to digest than those that aren’t. Whether you’re taking whey powder[8] or beef, grass-fed is always the best choice. Grass-fed beef has been found to be higher in antioxidants and vitamins A and E compared to grain-fed cattle. They also have lower levels of saturated fat than their grain-fed counterparts.
High-quality Sources
It’s always important to investigate the brand you’re looking to buy from and ensure their sources are high-quality, come from trusted and reputable farms, and aren’t treated with hormones or antibiotics.
No Artificial Ingredients
It’s safe to say that any protein powder that contains all-natural ingredients is the best way to go. But, not every brand can ensure a completely natural line-up. That’s why it’s at least important to ensure it’s free of artificial flavors, fillers, thickening agents, colorings, and preservatives, which can negatively affect your health.
No GMO
Always choose beef protein powders that don’t contain genetically modified organisms. The more natural the product, the better the absorption and the less potential digestive discomfort. GMOs are designed to be grown with pesticides, something we don’t want to accumulate in our bodies.
Complete Amino Acid Profile
Many beef protein powders are made from beef collagen, which isn’t always a complete protein. Choose a brand with all essential amino acids and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that will promote maximum muscle gain, fat loss, and overall muscular health.
Other Natural Ingredients
Some brands really go the extra mile by including all-natural and nutritious ingredients in their flavored beef protein isolate powder.
From coconut milk powder and almond milk to vanilla nut extract and cocoa powder, these ingredients not only make the beef protein supplement more delicious but also bring a variety of vitamins and minerals into your daily protein serving.
Potential Side Effects
As with any dietary supplement, it’s always important to stay within the recommended dosage. Going overboard can cause some digestive issues such as bloating, discomfort, gas, and nausea.
But, in extreme cases, studies have shown that a high protein[9] intake can cause issues with bone health, kidney and liver function, and the potential development of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
It’s always best to stick to the recommended dosage and not go overboard unless your doctor or registered dietitian recommends a different amount for you and your health and fitness goals.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended daily allowance for protein is 0.8 g/kg of body weight, but the actual amount depends on many factors. You’ll usually see the recommended dose neatly packed into a scoop size on most protein powder tubs.
If for some reason, your packaging doesn’t come with a scoop inside, you’ll most likely need to measure out the right amount with a scale. Usually, a scoop is between 25-35 grams, equating to 25-35 grams of protein per serving.
Suppose you’ve done your math, and you know your daily protein requirements. In that case, you’ll easily add beef protein powder into your diet and add all the essential amino acids to promote muscle building, fat loss, and overall health of your entire muscular system.
Final Thought
Beef protein powders may be a novelty that only became popular in recent years due to the followers of the paleo diet, but they come with many benefits without the digestive discomfort of dairy and whey protein powders.
Its anabolic characteristics and positive effects on body composition influence world-renowned dietary supplement brands to develop the best beef protein supplement and promote lean muscle gains without any dairy involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, grass-fed beef is always better than non-grass-fed as it ensures better quality and higher bioavailability of nutrients.
When compared, most studies yielded no specific results, but beef-based protein powders show better muscle-building and fat-loss characteristics.
MuscleMeds Carnivor Beef Protein Isolate powder is the highest-rated protein powder.
Yes, studies show its highly anabolic amino acid composition promotes muscle gain and aids in fat loss.
+ 9 sources
Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
- Valenzuela, P.L., Mata, F., Morales, J.S., Adrián Castillo‐García and Lucía, A. (2019). Does Beef Protein Supplementation Improve Body Composition and Exercise Performance? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients, [online] 11(6), pp.1429–1429. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11061429.
- Kendig, M.D., Lin, C.S., Beilharz, J.E., Rooney, K. and Boakes, R.A. (2014). Maltodextrin can produce similar metabolic and cognitive effects to those of sucrose in the rat☆. Appetite, [online] 77, pp.1–12. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2014.02.011.
- Valenzuela, P.L., Montalvo, Z., Mata, F., González, M., Eneko Larumbe-Zabala and Naclerio, F. (2020). Effects of Beef Protein Supplementation in Male Elite Triathletes: A Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind, Cross-Over Study. Journal of The American College of Nutrition, [online] 40(1), pp.53–60. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2020.1727377.
- Naclerio, F., Seijo, M., Eneko Larumbe-Zabala, Ashrafi, N., Christides, T., Karsten, B. and Nielsen, B.V. (2017). Effects of Supplementation with Beef or Whey Protein Versus Carbohydrate in Master Triathletes. Journal of The American College of Nutrition, [online] 36(8), pp.593–601. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/07315724.2017.1335248.
- Sharp, M., Lowery, R.P., Shields, K.A., Lane, J.R., Gray, J.L., Partl, J.M., Hayes, D.W., Wilson, G.J., Hollmer, C.A., Minivich, J.R. and Wilson, J.M. (2018). The Effects of Beef, Chicken, or Whey Protein After Workout on Body Composition and Muscle Performance. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, [online] 32(8), pp.2233–2242. doi:https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000001936.
- NA; (2019). Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications. Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, [online] 18(1). Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681787/.
- Rodriguez, N.R. and Miller, S.A. (2015). Effective translation of current dietary guidance: understanding and communicating the concepts of minimal and optimal levels of dietary protein. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, [online] 101(6), pp.1353S1358S. doi:https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.114.084095.
- Jones, D., Paschoalette, T. and Gislei Frota Aragão (2021). Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, [online] 46(1), pp.27–33. doi:https://doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2020-0370.
- Ioannis Delimaris (2013). Adverse Effects Associated with Protein Intake above the Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults. ISRN Nutrition, [online] 2013, pp.1–6. doi:https://doi.org/10.5402/2013/126929.
Written by:
Karla Tafra, Nutritionist
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
