7 Best Casein Protein Powders For Better Taste & Digestion 2023
Updated on
- Written by Lindsey Desoto, RDN, LD
Medically reviewed by
Kathy Shattler, MS, RDN
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Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein Protein
- 60% Recommended Daily Value for calcium
- Minimal ingredients used
- Third-party tested
Naked Casein
- Soy-free
- Low sodium
- Third-party tested
15% Off Coupon: HEALTHCANAL
Kaged Muscle Protein Powder
- Formulated with digestive enzymes
- Affordable
- Multiple flavors available
Whatever your health and fitness goals might be, prioritizing protein intake is a must. Not only can protein help control hunger and food cravings, but it can also help preserve lean muscle mass and improve your body composition.
One way to ensure your protein needs are met is by supplementing with a high-quality protein powder. Two popular types of milk protein powders are whey protein isolate and casein. Although both provide the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle growth and protein synthesis, there are a few key differences between the two.
7 Best Casein Protein Powders For Better Taste & Digestion (September. 2023)
- Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein Protein – Editor’s Choice
- Naked Casein – Best Casein Protein Before Bed
- Kaged Muscle Protein Powder – Best For Muscle Gain
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein – Best Digestive Support Blend
- Optimum Nutrition Naturally Flavored Gold Standard 100% Casein – Best Natural Option
- Dymatize Elite Casein Protein Powder – Best Budget Pick
- Now Sports Micellar Casein – Best For Athletes
Differences Between Whey and Casein Protein
One of the main differences between whey and casein protein is their digestion time. Whey protein is characterized as a fast-digesting protein[1], whereas casein is considered to be a slow-digesting protein.
So, what does that mean?
Basically, whey protein is viewed as more beneficial for muscle-building because it contains higher amounts of branched-chain amino acids. It also increases amino acid concentrations in the blood shortly after consuming it. As such, whey protein can stimulate muscle synthesis more quicker than other proteins.
But let’s not count casein powder out just yet!
Because casein protein supplements are slower to digest, they provide a steady flow of amino acids. It is considered a muscle-sparing protein because it reduces muscle protein breakdown.
According to one study published in the International Journal of Sports Nutrition[2], taking 30 grams of casein before bed can help increase muscle protein synthesis (the process of building muscle) and overnight metabolic rate.
This article will discuss the best casein protein supplements on the market today to help you reach your health and fitness goals.
7 Best Casein Protein In 2023
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein Protein
If you’re looking for a clean casein powder that is sourced from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein Protein is a top choice.
- Minimal ingredients used
- Gluten-free Made with ingredients free of genetically modified organisms (non-GMO)
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Delivers 60% of the Daily Value of calcium
- Third-party tested
- Limited flavor options
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein Protein is formulated with easily dissolvable instantized micellar casein. It’s also free of added sugars, artificial preservatives, and coloring, all of which appeal to those looking for a clean casein powder. Micellar casein is the purest form of casein.
This low-fat, low-cholesterol product comes in Chocolate and Vanilla flavors naturally sweetened using stevia.
With just half a gram of fat per scoop, it packs in 25 grams of slow-digesting casein protein. It is also high in calcium, delivering 60% of the Daily Value per serving.
If you are not satisfied, Transparent Labs offers a sixty-day money-back guarantee.
The company provides a certificate of analysis (COA), a summary of the results from testing performed by an independent third party to ensure a product’s specifications and quality are in line with the guidelines and the label accurately portrays the product ingredients.
Prices start at $1.99 per serving.
Naked Casein
If you’re looking for a good quality casein protein powder that won’t break the bank, Naked Casein is a great option. It is the best casein protein before bed.
- Made with minimal ingredients
- Low sodium
- High in calcium
- Soy-free
- Affordable
- Flavored products contain added sugar
The unflavored Naked Casein contains one simple ingredient — micellar casein sourced from farms in the United States. This means you don’t have to worry about it containing artificial flavorings, additives, or other unnecessary ingredients.
Other flavor options, including Chocolate and Vanilla, are also available and made using just three ingredients. However, these options do contain added sugar.
Their fat-free, unflavored protein powder packs 27 grams of protein and 5.9 grams of BCAAs to support overnight muscle protein synthesis. It also contains 62% of the Daily Value for calcium in every two-scoop serving.
One small 2017 study[6] found that people who consumed a drink with 5.6 grams of BCAAs following resistance training experienced a 22% increase in muscle protein synthesis compared to those who consumed a placebo beverage.
Unlike many other casein protein powders that contain 200-300 milligrams of sodium, this product is much lower in sodium, containing just 30 milligrams per serving.
It’s cold-processed, which means it is processed at low temperatures and mechanically separated to remove impurities, fats, and unwanted sugars. No acid or bleach is used during processing.
Independent heavy metals testing results are published online for added transparency.
Prices start at around $1.63 per serving. Subscription discounts are available.
Kaged Muscle Protein Powder
If you are in search of a great-tasting, high-quality casein protein powder, Kaged Kasein is an excellent choice.
- Third-party tested
- Several flavor options offered
- Less than 1 gram of lactose per serving
- Soy-free
- Easy to cook with
- Low in fat and carbohydrates (carbs)
- Only one size option is available
Kaged is a supplement company well-known for its broad product selection. Kaged Kasein Protein Powder is made using a microfiltration process to preserve the muscle-boosting nutrients. This means no harsh heat or chemicals are used in the production process.
One serving delivers 45% of the Daily Value for calcium, 1 gram of sugar, 26 grams of pure micellar casein, and 4.75 grams of BCAAs to fight muscle tissue breakdown and enhance muscle recovery[8].
Available in flavors such as Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Shake, and Vanilla Shake, it’s considered to be one of the best-tasting casein powders on the market.
Best of all, it is naturally flavored and free of artificial colors. It’s also soy-free and contains less than 1 gram of lactose per serving.
All Kaged products are also third-party tested and banned substance-free.
Prices start at $1.48 per serving.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein is an excellent option for those looking for a quality supplement with added ingredients to support digestion.
- Formulated with ingredients to maximize absorption
- A variety of flavors offered
- Affordable
- Made with artificial ingredients
- Contains sucralose
As one of the world’s largest supplement companies, Optimum Nutrition is well known for its high-quality yet affordable supplements.
One serving of Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Micellar Casein Protein Powder delivers 24 grams of protein, nearly 5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and 50% of the recommended Daily Value for calcium.
It also is formulated using Aminogen®[3], a blend of digestive enzymes which may enhance nutrient absorption and minimize unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms.
This product contains soy and artificial flavorings and sweeteners, which some consumers choose to avoid. The product also contains sucralose, which has been shown to adversely affect[4] the gut microbiome and to increase blood sugars[5] in those sensitive to the product.
However, for those who prioritize flavor, this supplement is one of the few that comes in several different flavor options, including Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Supreme, and Cookies and Cream.
Prices start at around $1.15 per serving.
Optimum Nutrition Naturally Flavored Gold Standard 100% Casein
Optimum Nutrition Naturally Flavored Gold Standard 100% Casein is a solid choice for those searching for a reasonably priced casein protein powder that is low in fat, sugar, and carbohydrates.
- Available in two-pound and four-pound containers
- Chocolate Creme and French Vanilla flavors are available
- High in calcium and BCAAs
- Free of artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors
- Banned substances tested
- Contains added sugars
If you are a fan of Optimum Nutrition but aren’t entirely sold on the artificial ingredients found in their standard casein powder, Optimum Nutrition Naturally Flavored Gold Standard 100% Casein may be just what you are looking for.
This product contains zero artificial ingredients, including artificial sweeteners, flavorings, and colors. One serving provides 24 grams of protein. It also contains 40% of the recommended Daily Value for calcium and 4.9 grams of BCAAs.
This product is also banned substance tested, so athletes can comfortably include it in their supplement regimen.
Prices start at around $1.68 per serving.
Dymatize Elite Casein Protein Powder
If you are looking for a flavorful, premium casein protein powder that is high in BCAAs, Dymatize Elite Casein Protein Powder is a great choice.
- A large variety of flavors
- Zero added sugars
- Informed-Choice certified
- Easy to purchase online
- High in BCAAs
- Contains soy
Dymatize Elite Casein Protein Powder is made using 100% micellar casein. Offering flavors such as Cinnamon Bun, Smooth Vanilla, Cookies & Cream, and Rich Chocolate, there is an option available for just about all taste buds.
In one serving, your body will be nourished with 25 grams of slow-digesting protein, 45% of the recommended Daily Value for calcium, 5.3 grams of BCAAs, and 2.3 grams of leucine.
Leucine[7] is believed to be the BCAA that is most effective at stimulating muscle protein synthesis.
This supplement is also free of added sugar and relatively low in carbohydrates providing just 3 grams per serving. It contains milk and soy, which may be a dealbreaker for those who avoid soy.
Pricing starts at around $1.20 per serving. Supplements bear the Informed-Choice logo and have been tested for banned substances.
Now Sports Micellar Casein
If you are looking for an unflavored casein protein powder that has more of what you need and less of what you don’t need, Now Sports Micellar Casein is an excellent option.
- Formulated with two simple ingredients
- Low sodium
- Soy-free
- Informed-Choice and Informed-Sport certified
- Affordable
- No flavor option offered
NOW Sports Micellar Casein is an unflavored casein powder formulated with two simple ingredients: micellar casein and sunflower lecithin.
This product delivers 19 grams of protein, 4.5 grams of BCAAs, and 25% of the Daily Value for calcium in one serving. It also contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrate and fat and 90 calories, making it the best casein protein for weight loss.
For those with food allergies, it is free of corn, soy, gluten, nuts, and eggs. For added peace of mind, NOW Sports Micellar Casein is Informed-Choice and Informed-Sport certified, meaning it is safe for athletes.
This product delivers 19 grams of protein, 4.5 grams of BCAAs, and 25% of the Daily Value for calcium in one serving. It also contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrate and fat and 90 calories, making it the best casein protein for weight loss.
This casein supplement is very reasonably priced at around $1.18 per serving.
How To Choose The Best Casein Protein
When choosing a casein protein supplement, it’s essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each product to ensure you are getting a product you are happy with.
First of all, it’s essential to ensure your supplement of choice is tested by a third party. This helps to ensure the product ingredients match what is on the label and that you are getting a high-quality product.
You also want to choose a product made with micellar casein, a more natural form of casein. Studies[9] suggest that micellar casein is often preferred over other types of casein due to its slow digestibility, which can supply a steady flow of amino acids overnight.
If you want to avoid unnecessary ingredients or fillers, consider choosing a product that doesn’t contain a long list of ingredients, such as NOW Sports Micellar Casein.
If you have a medical condition that requires you to restrict your sodium intake, carefully check the label, as some brands can contain well over 300 milligrams of sodium per scoop. Sodium at levels of 20% of the DV is considered to be high.
Similarly, if you have dietary allergies, carefully review the ingredients to ensure your chosen brand does not contain your allergen.
Final Thought
Casein is a slow-digesting protein that supports muscle growth and recovery.
Casein protein powders are commonly consumed as a bedtime “snack” to provide the body with a steady supply of amino acids throughout the night and increase muscle protein synthesis.
When choosing a casein protein supplement, it’s important to do your research, check for third-party testing, and opt for a powder with less of what you don’t need and more of what benefits you.
As always, consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Casein protein is commonly recommended before bed because it is a slow-digesting protein that provides a constant flow of amino acids to reduce muscle breakdown and stimulate muscle protein synthesis while you sleep.
Casein is a slow-digesting protein. As such, casein protein powders can keep you full for more extended periods and control cravings which ultimately can help you lose weight.
+ 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
- Kanda, A., Nakayama, K., Sanbongi, C., Nagata, M., Ikegami, S. and Itoh, H. (2016). Effects of Whey, Caseinate, or Milk Protein Ingestion on Muscle Protein Synthesis after Exercise. Nutrients, [online] 8(6), p.339. doi:10.3390/nu8060339.
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- Anderson, M.L. (2011). A Double-Blind Clinical Study to Investigate the Effects of a Fungal Protease Enzyme System on Metabolic, Hepato-renal, and Cardiovascular Parameters Following 30 Days of Supplementation in Active, Healthy Men. Food Digestion, [online] 4(1), pp.19–25. doi:10.1007/s13228-011-0016-3.
- del Pozo, S., Gómez-Martínez, S., Díaz, L.E., Nova, E., Urrialde, R. and Marcos, A. (2022). Potential Effects of Sucralose and Saccharin on Gut Microbiota: A Review. Nutrients, [online] 14(8), p.1682. doi:10.3390/nu14081682.
- Méndez-García, L.A., Bueno-Hernández, N., Cid-Soto, M.A., De León, K.L., Mendoza-Martínez, V.M., Espinosa-Flores, A.J., Carrero-Aguirre, M., Esquivel-Velázquez, M., León-Hernández, M., Viurcos-Sanabria, R., Ruíz-Barranco, A., Cota-Arce, J.M., Álvarez-Lee, A., De León-Nava, M.A., Meléndez, G. and Escobedo, G. (2022). Ten-Week Sucralose Consumption Induces Gut Dysbiosis and Altered Glucose and Insulin Levels in Healthy Young Adults. Microorganisms, [online] 10(2), p.434. doi:10.3390/microorganisms10020434.
- Jackman, S.R., Witard, O.C., Philp, A., Wallis, G.A., Baar, K. and Tipton, K.D. (2017). Branched-Chain Amino Acid Ingestion Stimulates Muscle Myofibrillar Protein Synthesis following Resistance Exercise in Humans. Frontiers in Physiology, [online] 8. doi:10.3389/fphys.2017.00390.
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- Kim, J. (2020). Pre-sleep casein protein ingestion: new paradigm in post-exercise recovery nutrition. Physical Activity and Nutrition, [online] 24(2), pp.6–10. doi:10.20463/pan.2020.0009.
- Trommelen, J., Weijzen, M.E.G., van Kranenburg, J., Ganzevles, R.A., Beelen, M., Verdijk, L.B. and van Loon, L.J.C. (2020). Casein Protein Processing Strongly Modulates Post-Prandial Plasma Amino Acid Responses In Vivo in Humans. Nutrients, [online] 12(8), p.2299. doi:10.3390/nu12082299.
Written by:
Lindsey Desoto, RDN, LD
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
