Is vegan protein absorbed worse than whey protein? Myths and facts

Vegan protein has gained popularity among active people, athletes, and those seeking cleaner, more effective nutrition. It's no longer just an alternative for vegans: it's a healthy, complete, and perfectly valid option for anyone who wants to take care of their diet.

At Tronk , all our products are 100% vegan , made with natural ingredients, free from common allergens, artificial sweeteners, and unnecessary additives. And most importantly, they're complete with a high protein concentration (79%) , and a natural flavor you can truly enjoy.

Vegan protein vs. animal protein: The real differences

Vegan protein is obtained from plant sources such as peas, rice, soy, or hemp. Many of these proteins, taken individually, do not contain all the essential amino acids.

Animal protein (like whey) does provide these nutrients, which is why it has been considered "superior" for years. But the key lies in something simple: complete protein.

When you combine peas and rice, you get a protein with all 9 essential amino acids in the proportions your body needs. The result: the same functionality as an animal protein.

This combination not only covers all of the body's amino acid needs, but is also often easier for many people to digest , especially those with dairy intolerances or sensitivities.

What about absorption?

The most repeated myth is that vegetable protein “is not absorbed well.”
The truth is clearer:

• Yes, whey protein is digested quickly.
• But studies show that a well-formulated, complete plant protein (such as pea + rice) offers the same results in strength and muscle mass if the intake is adequate.
• The body doesn't distinguish where an amino acid comes from: the only thing that matters is that it arrives.

At Tronk, we use this combination because it is complete, digestible, and highly bioavailable.

Why do we use pea and rice protein at Tronk?

We opted for this combination because:

• Complete profile of essential amino acids.

• Contains no common allergens such as soy or dairy.

• We can give it a natural strawberry and chocolate flavor, without resorting to artificial sweeteners.

• Light digestion and does not cause discomfort in most people.

We avoid using soy because many people are sensitive or allergic to it.

There are also other plant-based sources, such as hemp or sunflower seeds , although they are less commonly used as the main source. Hemp, for example, provides all the essential amino acids, but is very low in lysine, and its protein content is significantly lower than that of peas or rice. Therefore, it would not be an optimal source on its own. Sunflower protein is easy to digest and rich in micronutrients, but its amino acid profile is incomplete .

For a protein to be complete it needs to contain the 9 essential amino acids : histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

Does vegan protein help you gain muscle mass?

Yes, as long as it's a complete, high-quality protein. For example, Tronk 's pea and rice combination offers an optimal amino acid profile for muscle growth , with a protein content of 79% . It's ideal at any time of day, as a complement to your daily protein intake if you exercise or are looking to increase muscle mass.

Here are some examples of elite athletes who consume plant-based protein:

Nimai Delgado – IFBB Pro Bodybuilder. He has never eaten meat in his life (vegetarian since birth, vegan since 2015).

Scott Jurek – Legendary ultramarathoner. He has won the Western States 100 seven times in a row. Vegan since the early 2000s.

Lewis Hamilton – Formula 1 driver, seven-time world champion. Vegan since 2017, active promoter of veganism.

David Haye – Former world cruiserweight and heavyweight boxing champion. Vegan since 2014, he attributes his recovery and performance to a 100% plant-based diet with proteins like pea and hemp.

Novak Djokovic – Although he eschews the “vegan” label, his diet is 100% plant-based. He has been ranked number 1 in tennis multiple times in the world.

Chris Smalling – Professional footballer (ex-Manchester United, currently at Roma). Vegan for several years.

Patrick Baboumian – One of the world's strongest men, winner of multiple strongman titles. Vegan since 2011, he broke world records by lifting over 550 kg.

All of these athletes have reported using plant-based protein in shakes , often in the form of pea, rice, or hemp isolate, especially post-workout.

Also for weight loss

Vegan protein is an ally in fat loss diets because:

• It provides satiety.
• Maintains muscle mass.
• Avoid glucose spikes.
• Does not include empty calories.

With Tronk , without added sugars or fillers, it easily fits into any goal.

Does vegan protein cause gas?

A common question. Some plant-based proteins can be heavy if they're poorly formulated or contain additives. At Tronk, we use only natural ingredients, without sucralose, sorbitol, or unnecessary additives. The result: a vegan protein that's easy to digest , gentle on the stomach, and free of unpleasant side effects.

How to choose a quality vegan protein

Not all plant-based proteins are created equal. Look for products that:

• Have complete protein in amino acids .

• Have a high percentage of protein (ideally more than 70%).

• They are free of artificial sweeteners and additives .

• They do not contain common allergens such as lactose, soy or gluten.

• They offer a natural and pleasant flavor without having to hide it with chemicals.

At Tronk, we keep it simple: complete, high-quality proteins with great flavor and no unnecessary frills. You can choose between our strawberry-flavored vegan protein or our chocolate-flavored vegan protein , two options designed for those looking to take care of themselves without sacrificing the pleasure of a natural flavor.

Why choose Trunk Protein?

• 100% vegan, no artificial additives or fillers.

• 79% protein content, ideal for the growth and recovery of your muscle mass .

• Allergen-free.

• Real, clean, natural flavor.

• Complete protein, highly bioavailable.

Whether you're looking for a strawberry-flavored vegan protein to spice up your breakfast, or a chocolate-flavored vegan protein to fuel you after a workout, at Tronk you'll find an option that truly cares for your body.

If you're also committed to complete, no-nonsense plant-based protein, follow us on Instagram or Facebook . We'd love to join you during your workouts and hear how you're doing with protein made the way it should be: effective, honest, and no-nonsense.