At Sneaky Wholefoods, we don’t just sneak in the good stuff, we believe in it. Especially when it comes to plant protein.
We’ve heard it all:
“Plant protein isn’t complete!”
“You need animal protein to build muscle!”
“Vegans can’t get strong!”
Spoiler alert: That’s old-school thinking. Modern science is loud and clear, plant protein gets the job done.
What even is Plant Protein?
Plant proteins come from sources like peas, brown rice, soy, hemp, oats and nuts. Unlike some animal proteins, they’re naturally packed with fibre, antioxidants and phytonutrients, bonus nutrients your body actually loves.
We use plant protein in our snacks not just because it’s kinder to animals and the planet, but because it’s genuinely good for YOU. And yes, we’ve got the science to back it up
The Science is in: Plant Protein works
A 2023 meta-analysis in Nutrients reviewed 18 studies comparing plant and animal protein for muscle growth. The verdict? No significant difference. When protein intake is matched, plant protein performs just as well.¹
Even soy protein has gone toe-to-toe with whey in studies, holding its ground in building strength and size.²
Protects Your Health Long-Term
Higher plant protein intake is linked to a lower risk of death from all causes, especially heart disease.³
So when you snack on Sneaky Wholefoods, you’re not just fuelling your day, you’re investing in your future self.
Why we choose Pea Protein for every Sneaky snack
When it comes to fuelling your day the smart way, pea protein is our go-to and here’s why:
- High digestibility: Gentle on sensitive tummies
- Naturally rich in iron: Great for plant-based diets
- Low allergen risk: Unlike dairy, soy or gluten
- Neutral flavour: Blends beautifully with real ingredients like dates, cashews and cacao
- Sustainable: Uses less water and land than animal-based proteins
It’s even gentle enough for little tummies, making it a great option for families who snack smart together.
Why Not Whey, Soy, or Blend Fillers?
We chose not to use whey (dairy-based), soy (a common allergen) or highly processed blends because they didn’t align with the we we moved forward with our brand simple, nourishing snacks made from real ingredients that feel good and do good.
Looking to top up your protein outside your snacks? Here’s a quick guide to popular protein powders. What they are, how digestible they are and what they’re best for:
| Protein Type | Source | Digestibility | Best For | Allergen Friendly? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pea Protein | Yellow split peas | High | Muscle building, easy digestion | Yes | Often paired with rice protein for completeness |
| Brown Rice Protein | Brown rice | Moderate | Sensitive stomachs | Yes | Lacks some amino acids alone |
| Soy Protein | Soybeans | Moderate to High | Muscle building, vegans | No (common allergen) | Complete protein, but allergenic |
| Hemp Protein | Hemp seeds | High | Digestion, plant-based diets | Yes | High in fibre, nutty flavour |
| Whey Protein | Dairy (milk) | Very High | Muscle recovery, fast absorption | No (dairy) | Can cause bloating for some |
| Casein Protein | Dairy (milk) | Slow | Overnight recovery | No (dairy) | Slow release protein |
| Pumpkin Seed Protein | Pumpkin seeds | High | Nutrient diversity | Yes | Nutty flavour, often blended |
Sneaky Tip: Want a complete amino acid profile? Pair your favourite Sneaky snack (which uses pea protein) with a smoothie made using rice protein. It's a simple combo that supports balanced, sustained energy.
Need inspiration?
Grab our brand-new Daily Smoothies to Nourish & Energise - eBook for delicious recipes you can whip up in minutes. Perfect for post-workout, breakfast or paired with your favourite Sneaky Wholefoods snack.
- Plant protein is backed by science for long-term health and wellness
- It’s easier on your body and kinder to the planet
- And it’s what makes every Sneaky snack sneakily powerful
Whether you're lifting weights, chasing toddlers or running from meeting to meeting, we’ve got your back.
References-
Lim MT, Radziejewska A, Lim K, & Leong KS. (2023). Muscle Hypertrophy Response to Plant-Based versus Animal-Based Protein Consumption. Nutrients, 15(4), 989.
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Messina M, Lynch H, Dickinson JM, & Reed KE. (2017). Effect of Different Protein Sources on Muscle Mass and Strength Gains in Resistance-Trained Individuals. AJCN, 106(3), 748–756.
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Huang J, Liao L, Lin X, et al. (2020). Plant Protein Intake and Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Internal Medicine, 180(9), 1172–1180.
