Monthly Archives: May 2024

We dont need to tell you that vegetables are an essential source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support good health. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends adults consume a minimum of 2.5 cups of vegetables per day. Yet so many of us struggle to eat enough of them, or we fall into the habit of reaching for the same veggies day after day.

Greens powders contain a variety of green foods, including common vegetables and grasses and less common plants like seaweed and algae. Theyre added to a liquid, like water or a smoothie, to create a nutrient-rich drink. Its kind of like juicing, but without the mess. You can even add greens powders to sauces, salad dressings, baked goods and frozen desserts for extra nutrients.

You still need to make space on your plate for actual vegetables, but a good greens powder can act like an insurance policy against normal fluctuations in your veggie intake. In addition to greens (obviously), many of these powders contain fruits, herbs, mushrooms and adaptogens to deliver additional antioxidants and functional health benefits. Others tout themselves as detoxifying and digestive aids, and many contain added prebiotics and probiotics to support your gut microbiome.

There can be a lot of health claims and ingredients to comb through, so how do you find the best greens powder? Weve tested 41 greens powders to find ones you will actually want to drink, but only those that have been third-party tested for safety made our final cut. Here are our picks for the best greens powders to add to your wellness routine.

AG1

What we like: It has a balanced taste that works well in water, juice or smoothies.

What to know: It doesn't come cheap at over $3 per serving.

Athletic Greens is becoming the most popular brand of greens powders, thanks to a strong social media presence and prominent advertisements. The attention is well-deserved since AG1 is uniquely formulated with 75 ingredients, including vitamins, minerals and whole foods. It can almost be compared to a liquid multivitamin since it provides well over the daily value for most of the B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E. Its also rich in vitamin A and several minerals but lacks vitamin D.

AG1 contains some uncommon greens such as spirulina, chlorella and barley leaf, as well as a long list of superfoods, herbs, adaptogens, functional mushrooms, plant extracts, digestive enzymes and probiotics to support general wellness. We always recommend you check with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, and especially so with AG1, since the ingredient list is quite lengthy.

AG1 is undeniably one of the most expensive greens powders, but it continues to impress us. To date, EatingWell editors have taste-tested AG1 on two occasions and both times, its been voted the standout in the competition. In our tests, it mixed easily with water and produced an almost creamy texture. There was still a hint of graininess, but we excused it because the taste was so craveable. AG1s flavor reminds us of a tropical fruit smoothie; its slightly sweet with hints of pineapple and vanilla, not overpowering, and theres barely any aftertaste.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, dairy-free | Flavors: Original

Amazon

What we like: Combines 12 grams of plant-based protein and greens powders in one.

What to know: The added protein means you may need a more robust mixer than water to mask this powders texture.

If your nutrition goals include increasing both greens and protein intake, dont sleep on Sakaras Organic Protein + Greens Super Powder. As the name suggests, this product is part protein powder and part powdered greens. The greens include nutrient-dense options we like to see, including spirulina, wheatgrass, barley grass and chlorella. The protein comes from a blend of plant-based sources, including pea, hemp and pumpkin.

We loved both the smell and taste of this one. It contains coconut milk powder, vanilla, coconut sugar and stevia, which translates to a creamy texture and pleasantly sweet coconut-vanilla flavor. Because this contains protein powder, you may prefer it mixed in something creamier than water, like almond milk or a smoothie.

Most plant-based protein powders deliver 18 to 25 grams of protein per serving, so this isnt a one-for-one swap for those. However, with 12 grams of protein per serving, itll be more filling than most greens powders and can help you bump up your protein intake. The individual packets are also an excellent option for anyone who takes supplements on the go or travels frequently.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Organic, vegan, gluten-free | Flavors: Vanilla

Amazon

What we like: It contains 3 grams of fiber per serving, which is more than most powders we tested.

What to know: This product doesnt blend as smoothly as others, so mix well!

Amazing Grass makes several greens powders, each formulated slightly differently to support immunity, digestion or detoxification. We tried two: The Original Superfood Greens and the Alkalize & Detox Greens (view at Amazon). The alkalizing blend contains a few more greens varieties, but we preferred the taste and texture of the Original Superfood Greens.

Our testers likened the flavor to a smooth-tasting cup of matcha. It was enjoyable on its own but would also be delicious in milk, juice or smoothies. Whatever liquid you choose, we recommend mixing well since this powder can leave some sediment behind.

If matcha isnt your cup of tea, the Superfood Greens Blend is also available in berry and chocolate flavors. All three flavors are free from added sugar and sweeteners, so theyre a good choice if you prefer a mild, less sweet taste. Many greens powders contain stevia or monk fruit, which can be overpowering for some.

Leafy greens are a good source of vitamin K, which is important for heart health and strong bones. Not all greens powders are a good source of vitamin K, but this one delivers 58 percent of the daily recommended value per serving. In addition to seven types of greens, it contains antioxidants from green tea leaf extract, aai and maca, and extra fiber from flax seed and pectin.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Organic, non-GMO, vegan, kosher, gluten-free | Flavors: Original, Berry, Chocolate

Amazon

What we like: It comes in three flavors to satisfy various tastes.

What to know: The exact vitamin and mineral content isnt listed on the Supplement Facts.

The process of drying and grinding greens into powders can alter their nutrient content since some vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are sensitive to heat and processing. Ancient Nutrition does things a little differently and uses grass juices instead of powdered whole grasses in its SuperGreens product. Ancient Nutrition claims its production methods preserve nutrients, but unfortunately, the company doesnt provide the vitamin and mineral content on the label, so you cant know how many micronutrients these greens add to your diet.

Still, if you want a greens powder that includes a variety of plant ingredients, this is a good option. Its made with more than 25 organic superfood ingredients, including seven types of greens. But perhaps most importantly, it is something we actually want to drink.

Ancient Nutritions SuperGreens powder comes in original, mint, watermelon, mango and berry flavors. Like AG1, weve tested Ancient Nutritions greens twice, and the taste of the mint version has won us over both times. It tastes like a green veggie juice, but the mint helps keep it from being too vegetal. The mint is pleasant on its own but may not be the best choice if youre going to add it to fruit smoothies. We also tried the watermelon flavor, which tasted much sweeter than the mint and reminded us more of cherries than melon. The good news is if youre not a fan of whatever flavor you try, Ancient Nutrition offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Organic, non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free | Flavors: Greens, Mint, Watermelon, Berry, Mango

Amazon

What we like: It packs a whopping 21 different ingredients, including leafy greens, veggies and sea plants.

What to know: It has a thicker consistency thats better suited for smoothies than plain water.

One of the main reasons for using a greens powder is to get nutrition from less common but super nutritious greens. Oras greens fit the bill with 21 different ingredients, including grasses, veggies, sea plants, and herbs, including cilantro and parsley.

If you think theres no way that many green ingredients can taste good, youll be pleasantly surprised. Ora adds lemon and orange flavors plus lemon juice powder for a citrusy twist. We didnt find the citrus flavor to be overpowering, and it left no unpleasant aftertaste. If you want more flavor, you could add a squeeze of lemon.

Another thing we like about this greens powder is that it doesnt contain as many extra ingredients as other brands. Its mostly greens, with the exception of three ingredients: oligosaccharides, ashwagandha and triphala. Oligosaccharides are a type of prebiotic fiber that helps support gut microbes, and ashwagandha and triphala are adaptogens believed to support general well-being.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Organic, vegan, kosher | Flavors: Orange

Amazon

What we like: It has 14 grams of protein per serving for extra nutrition and staying power.

What to know: One serving is two scoops, so a 10-ounce container doesnt last long.

Vital Proteins is a leading brand in the collagen industry, and its original collagen peptides took the top spot in our round-up of the best collagen powders. Collagen could help with skin hydration and elasticity and may boost hair growth, so it makes sense that it appears in many beauty supplements. Of course, inner and outer glow doesnt come from collagen alone, so Vital Proteins added greens powders to this product for extra vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Collagen Beauty Greens contains 15 grams of collagen peptides, which equates to 14 g of protein per serving. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which can support more youthful skin. This is a solid choice if youre looking for a nutritious mid-morning or mid-afternoon drink. The greens supply vitamins and minerals, and the protein can help keep you full between meals.

If youre already using a collagen supplement, you probably dont need more collagen in your greens. In that case, Vital Proteins also makes Daily Greens (view at Amazon), which contain powdered greens with some prebiotics and probiotics for digestive support. We tested Daily Greens, too, and its taste and mixability were as good as Collagen Beauty Greens, though we preferred the added benefits of this version.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Dairy-free, gluten-free, Whole30-approved | Flavors: Vanilla Coconut

Bulletproof

What we like: It adds subtly sweet notes of pineapple to fruit smoothies.

What to know: It doesnt contain the green grasses found in most powdered greens.

Bulletproof Greens comes from the same company that started the trend of adding butter and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to coffee. It contains vegetables, fruit, superfoods, mushrooms, digestive enzymes, probiotics and nootropics, which are substances that can enhance cognitive function and help you feel more alert and focused.

Noticeably absent here are the green grasses found in most greens powders. Instead, the greens primarily come from spinach, kale, kelp, spirulina and chlorella. You wont be getting the phytochemicals unique to wheatgrass and other grasses. Still, these greens supply 100 percent of the daily value for B vitamins thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid and B12, which support your central nervous system and gut health, among other benefits. Bulletproof Greens are also a good source of vitamin K2.

In our experience, these greens are gritty when mixed in water, but thats not necessarily a reason to write them off. If youre a smoothie drinker, adding a scoop of greens to your blends can be a great way to give your morning drink a nutritional boost. We found Bulletproofs sweet pineapple flavoring is delicious in fruit-forward smoothies.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Vegan, non-GMO | Flavors: Pineapple

EatingWell / Alexander Huang

Swolverine

What we like: It combines greens with reds powders (derived from foods such as beets and pomegranates) for extra antioxidants.

What to know: Some of us found the strong citrus taste off-putting; wed suggest diluting it with more water than the instructions recommend.

Were big fans of supplements that are committed to labeling transparency. If you want to know exactly how much of each ingredient is in your greens, Swolverine Greens+Reds should be at the top of your list. It contains only three types of greens: spirulina, wheatgrass and chlorella. This powders antioxidant variety comes from added adaptogens and reds powders, which are made from beets, bilberry, blueberry, pomegranate, goji and aai. Despite this long list, the %DV of each ingredient is clearly listed on the label, which is essential for folks who may need to be aware of how certain ingredients may react to medications, for example.

If youre not a fan of citrus, or the aftertaste of stevia or monk fruit, this isnt the greens powder for you. To us, the taste was comparable to an orange cream ice pop with hints of green tea. When we first tried it, we mixed it with eight ounces of water according to the package directions and found the orange flavor and sweetness level were too strong. The texture was also on the thicker side. In the next round, we diluted it with more water, and the taste and texture were much more palatable.

Third-Party Tested: Yes | Certifications: Gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan | Flavors: Orange

EatingWell / Alexander Huang

If youre looking for an easy-drinking greens powder loaded with nutrients, AG1 by Athletic Greens (view at Amazon) remains our favorite. If youre also trying to increase protein intake, we like Sakara Organic Protein + Greens Super Powder (view at Amazon) and Vital Proteins Collagen Beauty Greens (view at Amazon).

With so many greens powders available today, how do you weed out the best from the rest? The top things to consider are third-party testing, ingredients, price and value. Keep these things in mind as you shop to help you find the best greens powder for your needs:

Greens powders fall under the dietary supplement umbrella and are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. If your powdered greens are labeled GMP Certified, know that this designation doesnt mean much. GMP refers to good manufacturing practices, which are safety guidelines for production facilities set by the FDA. All food, pharmaceutical, supplement and cosmetic manufacturers have to follow GMP by law, but it doesnt speak to the quality of ingredients or formulations for supplements.

To find a high-quality greens powder, look for one thats been third-party tested (like the greens powders on our list). Independent testing verifies that a product contains the ingredients listed on the label and doesnt contain potentially unsafe levels of contaminants, such as heavy metals. Trusted third-party certifications include NSF and Informed Choiceyou can search for verified products on their websites or look for a seal on the products label.

The most important ingredients in greens powders are, well, powdered greens. We recommend looking for a greens powder that contains a blend of vegetable and/or fruit powders for more vitamin and mineral variety. The powders should come from whole-food ingredients, such as kale, wheatgrass or spirulina.

You can also check the ingredients for proprietary blends. Proprietary blends are simply a group of ingredients. Most supplements that use them list the amount of the blend found in each serving but not the exact amount of each ingredient in that blend. Its not a big deal if you see this on a greens powder, as long as all the ingredients in the blend are from quality sources. However, if you want to know exactly what youre taking, look for brands that use 100 percent labeling transparency for each ingredient.

Some greens powders contain additional ingredients to support digestion and general health. You might find prebiotics, probiotics or digestive enzymes included in greens powders to support digestive health. Adaptogens and functional mushrooms, such as ashwagandha and cordyceps, may be added to support energy, mood and more.

However, certain adaptogens and mushrooms can interact with prescription medications, so its crucial that you check with your doctor before experimenting with a product that contains these ingredients. Please exercise caution and get a doctors approval if youre taking medicine to regulate blood pressure or for an autoimmune disorder, thyroid condition or diabetes. You should also steer clear from these supplements if youre a surgery candidate, pregnant or breastfeeding.

Greens powders range in price from less than $1 per serving to more than $3 per serving. Typically, the greens powders that include the additional ingredients mentioned above cost more than those that are just powdered veggies. So, should you spring for a pricier greens powder? It depends on why you want to use a greens powder and what other supplements and/or medications you may be taking.

Most people are interested in using powdered greens to round out their fruit and veggie intake, so some ingredients may be redundant if you use other supplements. For example, you dont need greens plus probiotics if you already use a digestive health supplement or regularly consume fermented foods, like yogurt and kefir. On the other hand, if a greens powder lists several claims and ingredients that seem to apply to your specific needs and goals, it may be a beneficial addition to your diet.

In our search for the best powdered greens supplements, we rolled up our sleeves and sipped on a total of 41 greens powders. Our testers included a mix of greens powder newbies and some experienced greens users. They all used the same methodology and rating system to assess smell, mixability, texture and taste.

After mixing, sniffing and sipping, EatingWell editors selected the greens powders with the highest ratings and categorized them based on taste, formulation and nutritional benefit to help you make the best choice.

Only eight of the 41 greens powders made our final list, but we want to acknowledge a few of the other options we tried from reputable brands.

Laird Superfood Prebiotic Daily Greens ($51 at Amazon): This greens powder has a strong, sweet citrus flavor thanks to the addition of monk fruit extract and powdered lemon and orange oils. Its a good choice for first-timers or anyone who prefers their greens not to taste so, well, green. Unless citrus pairs well with your smoothies, it may not be a great choice for adding to anything but water.

Suja Organic Greens Powder ($60 at Amazon): If you're a fan of Sujas cold-pressed juices, youll appreciate that their greens powder is made with whole-food ingredients and is certified USDA Organic. It dissolves completely in water and is drinkable but smells and tastes decidedly earthy. This wouldn't be our top suggestion if youre just getting into greens. On the other hand, if you dont want your greens powder flavored or sweetened, or youre going to hide it in a smoothie, this may be the perfect fit.

Thorne Daily Greens Plus ($68 at Amazon): Thorne gets a lot right about dietary supplements, but their greens powder is an exception. Of all the greens we tried, this one had the lowest rating for taste and texture. It has a strong earthy smell and bitter flavor that was off-putting in water and still noticeable when blended in a fruit smoothie. It produced a very grainy texture with lots of leftover sediment, even after stirring for a full minute.

EatingWell / Alexander Huang

Powdered greens can be good for you, especially if they're made from whole-food ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits and seaweed. Preliminary research suggests they may help with inflammation and blood pressure and potentially boost your energy. Most greens powders are low in calories, and the best formulas contain vitamins and minerals. Because dried greens arent the most delicious, most powders contain sweeteners to improve the taste. Look for a greens powder thats low in added sugar and/or flavored with a natural sweetener, like stevia.

Powdered greens dont deliver the same nutrition or health benefits as fresh greens and arent a replacement for eating actual vegetables. Leafy greens and other vegetables are excellent sources of gut-friendly fiber, plus vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support well-being. Most greens powders contain less fiber than fresh greens, and some micronutrients are heat-sensitive, so theyre minimized or destroyed during the processing of powdered greens.

Most greens powders manufacturers recommend taking one serving per day. If this is your first time trying a greens powder, you should stick to that recommendation for a few weeks or a month to see if you notice a difference in how you feel. If you dont, you may want to try a different brand or revise your goal to include more fruit and veggies on your plate.

Healthy eaters who meet the USDAs recommendation of five servings of fruit and vegetables per day aren't likely to benefit from taking a greens powder.

If youre already taking a multivitamin, a greens powder could be overkill. Double-check the vitamin and mineral dosages on all supplements to ensure you arent getting more than you need.

Pregnant and breastfeeding parents and anyone taking prescription medications should consult with a healthcare provider before taking a greens powder.

Sharon Lehman, RD, is a registered dietitian and contributing writer for EatingWell. She completed her dietetics undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware and is certified as an integrative nutrition coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She has over six years of experience as a nutrition writer, and her work has also appeared in Simply Recipes and The Spruce Eats.

This article was edited by Katie Tuttle, a commerce editor and contributor to publications such as Food & Wine and The Spruce Eats. It was reviewed by Brierley Horton, M.S., RD, senior commerce editor, with 15 years of experience reporting, writing and editing nutrition and health content.

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The 8 Best-Tasting Greens Powders of 2024 - EatingWell