Alisa Fleming ~ A couple of weeks ago via the Go Dairy Free Facebook Page, we received a request for dairy-free, soy-free protein drink powders. Fortunately, there are many options these days as the selection of protein powders in general has significantly expanded. Though whey protein (dairy-based) and soy protein still dominate most of the shelf space, you can now find protein powders made from hemp, brown rice, eggs, or peas. Cranberry protein is even available to manufacturers (not consumers as of yet).

Along these lines, my friend Sarena at the Non-Dairy Queen recently reviewed a vanilla protein powder blend for us made by Epic Protein. Their protein powder is made exclusively of Organic Sprouted Bio-Fermented Whole Grain Brown Rice. The vanilla combo also boasts Lucuma, Mesquite, Whole Vanilla Bean and Yacon - some rather fancy "superfoods." The end product is still considered "raw" and full of loads of nutrients. And, as an added bonus, their protein powder is produced in a certified vegan, organic, and kosher facility that is strictly dairy, nut, and gluten-free!

For more details, see the Vanilla Epic Protein on the company's website, and the label below, which is for the plain Epic Protein Powder.

Though most people may opt to sprinkle this protein powder into a shake, Sarena takes a different route ... 

"I love finding different ways to use protein powders since I don't do the smoothie thing. I made a tasty snack yesterday that is worth mentioning! I wanted something to dip my apple in, so I mixed together some Vanilla Epic Protein powder, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, a little water and a little stevia.

The addition of the protein powder made the pumpkin creamy and thick. The subtle vanilla undertones worked perfectly with the pumpkin. I will definitely be making more in the way of protein puddings for snacks. This was full of flavor and a perfect afternoon snack."

Article by Alisa Fleming, founder of GoDairyFree.org, blogger at Alisa Cooks, and author of Go Dairy Free: The Guide and Cookbook for Milk Allergies, Lactose Intolerance, and Casein-Free Living. Review and pudding photos by Sarena of the No Dairy Queen.