Vega Sport Premium Protein
Plant-based athletes who need NSF-certified vegan protein with recovery ingredients
Garden of Life SPORT Organic Plant-Based Protein
Organic-focused consumers who prioritize NSF and USDA certifications (note heavy metal flag)
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Vega Sport Premium Protein
Plant-based athletes who need NSF-certified vegan protein with recovery ingredients
Vega Sport is the premier NSF-certified plant-based protein for athletes. The multi-source blend provides a complete amino acid profile, and added recovery ingredients like tart cherry give it functional edge. Plant-based heavy metal concerns and premium pricing are the trade-offs.
Strengths
- NSF Certified for Sport with 30g plant-based protein per serving
- Multi-source plant blend (pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower, alfalfa) for complete amino profile
- Added tart cherry and turmeric for post-workout recovery support
Limitations
- Some Consumer Reports concern over heavy metals in plant-based proteins generally
- Strong stevia taste can be polarizing for some palates
- Premium price at $3.00/serving for 20 servings per container
When to Choose Garden of Life SPORT Organic Plant-Based Protein
Organic-focused consumers who prioritize NSF and USDA certifications (note heavy metal flag)
Garden of Life SPORT checks every certification box — NSF for Sport, USDA Organic, Non-GMO Verified. However, Consumer Reports flagged elevated lead levels at 4-6x their daily safety limit, which significantly impacts the heavy metal safety score. Buyers should weigh the strong certifications against the contamination data.
Strengths
- NSF Certified for Sport plus USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified triple certification
- Organic plant blend with probiotics and enzymes for digestive support
- 30g protein per serving from organic pea, navy bean, lentil, and garbanzo sources
Limitations
- Consumer Reports flagged lead at 4-6x daily safety concern level — significant safety concern
- Grittier texture than whey-based competitors due to plant protein blend
- Organic certification adds cost without directly addressing heavy metal contamination
