The case for complete plant protein
Protein is essential for the growth, repair, and renewal of muscle, bone, skin, and nearly every tissue in the body. While animal proteins have long been considered the gold standard for completeness and bioavailability, advances in food science—and careful ingredient selection—now make it possible to achieve the same benefits from plants. However not all plant proteins are created equal. Many common sources, like pea or rice protein alone, can be incomplete in key amino acids or difficult to digest. Tendra® fava bean protein isolate and YESTEIN™ fermented yeast protein were chosen for their complementary amino acid profiles and high digestibility. Together, they provide all essential amino acids required for muscle protein synthesis, tissue renewal, and metabolic health. This combination allows Labstead Vegan Protein to function as a true alternative to animal-based proteins, supporting muscle recovery, maintenance of lean mass, and overall resilience—entirely from sustainable, plant-based sources.
Muscle maintenance with vegan protein
Protein is fundamental for building, repairing, and maintaining muscle tissue at every stage of life. Healthy muscle mass is essential—not only for strength and movement, but also for metabolic function, mobility, and long-term resilience. Insufficient protein intake, inactivity, and the aging process can contribute to muscle loss (sarcopenia), slower recovery, and decreased physical performance—effects that may be amplified by stress, injury, or illness.
Emerging research demonstrates that consistent, adequate protein intake—including from well-formulated plant-based sources—helps preserve lean muscle mass, support muscle protein synthesis after exercise, and enhance strength and recovery in adults of all ages. Labstead Vegan Protein combines Tendra® fava bean protein isolate and YESTEIN™ fermented yeast protein, delivering a complete spectrum of essential amino acids—including leucine, which is critical for stimulating muscle protein synthesis.
Clinical studies show that daily supplementation with a complete protein (typically 20–40g per day), particularly when paired with resistance training or periods of increased need, can support gains in muscle mass, strength, and recovery compared to lower-protein diets. These benefits extend beyond athletes—maintaining muscle is vital for metabolic health, mobility, and overall quality of life.
Consistent use of a complete, plant-based protein source like Labstead Vegan Protein provides practical, research-backed support for muscle maintenance, strength, and recovery—whether you’re training, staying active, or supporting healthy aging.
The formula, decoded
Tendra® Fava Bean Protein Isolate
Labstead Vegan Protein features Tendra® fava bean protein isolate, sourced from fava beans grown and cultivated in Europe, selected for their purity, sustainability, and traceability. This protein is carefully isolated to provide a highly concentrated source of plant-based protein—low in common allergens and naturally gentle on digestion. Tendra® delivers a robust spectrum of essential amino acids, supporting muscle protein synthesis, recovery, and daily renewal with a clean, neutral taste.
YESTEIN™ Fermented Nutritional Yeast Protein
YESTEIN™ fermented nutritional yeast protein is produced using a natural fermentation process that yields a highly bioavailable, complete plant protein. Rich in essential amino acids and particularly high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), YESTEIN™ complements the amino acid profile of Tendra® to ensure nutritional completeness. This ingredient is chosen for its clean taste, smooth texture, and excellent digestibility—helping to create a balanced, effective plant-based protein blend that supports strength, recovery, and everyday nutrition.
Chocolate Flavored version
Our Chocolate Vegan Protein features the exact same thoughtfully selected ingredients found in our Chocolate Whey Protein Isolate, with the protein source simply replaced by Tendra® fava bean and YESTEIN™ fermented yeast protein. Each ingredient is chosen for its role in flavor, mixability, and label transparency—nothing unnecessary, and nothing hidden.
- Niddau Cocoa Powder & Nightfall Cocoa Powder: Provide rich chocolate flavor and natural cocoa antioxidants for a classic, satisfying taste.
- MCT Oil Powder: A source of healthy fats, MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) offer a creamy mouthfeel and help promote smooth blending.
- Natural Flavors: Enhance and round out the chocolate profile for a balanced, enjoyable experience.
- Sunflower Lecithin: Improves mixability, ensuring your protein dissolves easily without clumps.
- Apple Pectin Powder: A soluble fiber for improved texture and smoothness in every scoop.
- Sea Salt: Used sparingly to bring out the natural cocoa flavor and add depth.
- Stevia Extract (leaf): A plant-derived, zero-calorie sweetener for gentle sweetness without sugar or artificial additives.
- Silicon Dioxide: Functions as an anti-caking agent to keep the powder free-flowing and easy to scoop.
Every ingredient serves a clear purpose: to deliver a chocolate plant protein experience that’s both delicious and in line with Labstead’s commitment to ingredient integrity.
Vanilla Flavored version
Our Vanilla Vegan Protein uses the same carefully selected supporting ingredients as our Vanilla Whey Protein Isolate—simply replacing the protein source with Tendra® fava bean and YESTEIN™ fermented yeast protein. Each ingredient is included for flavor, texture, and transparency.
- Natural Flavors: Create a classic, balanced vanilla taste without artificial flavors or aftertaste.
- MCT Oil Powder: Provides a creamy texture and promotes easy mixing.
- Apple Pectin Powder: Improves mouthfeel for a smooth, satisfying drink.
- Sunflower Lecithin: Enhances solubility, helping the protein dissolve effortlessly in any beverage.
- Sea Salt: Accentuates the vanilla flavor and provides a subtle depth.
- Stevia Extract (leaf): Adds plant-based sweetness without sugar or artificial sweeteners.
- Silicon Dioxide: Prevents clumping and keeps the powder free-flowing.
As with every Labstead formula, each ingredient is there for a reason—supporting a clean, enjoyable vanilla plant protein experience, free from unnecessary additives.
Plant-powered renewal
Protein plays a foundational role in daily strength, recovery, and resilience—no matter your activity level or stage of life. In today’s diets, protein intake and quality are often inconsistent. Supplementing with a balanced, bioavailable plant protein blend like Labstead's Vegan Protein helps fill the gap—delivering all the essential amino acids your body needs, with none of the unnecessary extras. Over time, this support translates to improved recovery, better muscle retention, and greater adaptability for whatever life demands, all from a sustainable, plant-based foundation.
Studies referenced:
