Plant proteins are pretty amazing, but there are many misconceptions surrounding their nutritional value and taste. We’re here to debunk some myths and concerns for anyone who is hesitant about incorporating plant proteins into their diet.

For those who have experimented with a plant based diet, we know just how many questions can arise. Having to constantly answer how you receive adequate protein, if you miss the taste of meat, or being interrogated for the reasons you’re eating plant based in the first place can all be so overwhelming. Here’s everything you need to answer those, ahem, inquisitive, friends and family.

The most universal myth about plant protein…

“You’ll never get enough protein from plants!”

Not getting enough protein is a common concern for many people simply because protein is used in the body as an important building block for muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, and bones.

According to the FDA’s recommended daily allowance based on a 2,000 calorie diet, the average consumer should be eating around 50g protein per day. Although getting adequate protein from plants is a concern for many, it’s actually very difficult not to get enough protein while eating a well rounded whole foods diet.

Protein is found readily in many plant foods, including nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In fact, just one cup of cooked lentils contains 18g protein! Koia is one easy way to get a whopping 32% of your daily protein needs (18g!) from brown rice, pea, and hemp in one convenient grab and go bottle (not to mention our plant based beverages are totally craveable!).

The biggest critique about plant protein…

“I’ve tried plant proteins and they’re so chalky / bland / gross!”   

Okay, this may have been true in the past, but plant proteins have come very far since plants were first recognized as a complete source of protein several decades ago. The problem was that they often times didn’t taste good. Plant proteins are generally less refined, so they tend to have a more genuine and gritty texture to them (this is good because the less refined something is, the more nutrients it will retain!). Some of the first plant based proteins were made using pea protein, however the pea protein was not blended smoothly and people became accustomed to the chalky products that were being produced.  

Drastic improvements have been made to the taste of plant proteins over the decades, which allow people to thoroughly enjoy them while still receiving their many benefits. Plant proteins are easier to digest and include fiber to help support digestion, are lower in fat and cholesterol than animal proteins (contributing to decreased risk of cardiovascular disease), are dairy and gluten allergen friendly, and do not have growth hormones or antibiotics. There is no reason health should compromise flavor, which is why the plant protein market has grown and improved tremendously!

Cue, Koia. We combine brown rice, pea, and hemp protein and blend it with just the right amount of creamy almond milk to deliver a much more enjoyable and smooth mouthfeel. Our plant based beverages come in familiar flavors and even people not following plant based diets love them! You would never believe there’s 18g of complete plant proteins and only 4g of sugar in every bottle. Additionally, Koia can be combined with other ingredients to make yummy, plant based, and protein rich treats. Check out these Cinnamon Horchata Baked Donuts here.

A common misconception…

“Animal protein is the only way to get a complete protein”

Although plants do not contain all 9 essential amino acids to form a complete protein on their own, plant based proteins should not be dismissed as invalid sources of protein. When combined with other plant proteins, the full 9 essential amino acids can easily be achieved.

Koia combines three plant proteins, brown rice, pea, and hemp, in order to deliver all 9 essential amino acids and form a complete protein. Koia’s combined blend of plant proteins provide a high-quality source of protein with the benefits of additional minerals like calcium and iron from whole food ingredients. We provide a complete protein source while creating the most delicious plant based beverages because we believe that health should not compromise flavor!

At last, the common misconceptions surrounding plant proteins can finally be put to rest! As you can tell, plant proteins offer a wide range of benefits, which is why we believe in their ability to fuel and nourish people everyday. We challenge you to incorporate plant proteins into your diet and share with us what you find!