Pea protein is made from field peas (Pisum sativum), the kind you would use to make split pea soup. This is the same species but a different varietal than garden/sweet/English peas.

Both varietals contain about 20–23% protein, and field peas are lower in sugar than garden peas. This legume typically grows in cool, dry regions like the northern US and Canada. PURIS’s primary growing states are Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska.

Unlike some other protein powders, most pea proteins (including all of PURIS’s proteins) are extracted without the use of harsh chemicals or solvents like hexane.

Additionally, PURIS’s contracted farmers are encouraged to use regenerative growing practices and are forbidden from spraying desiccants such as glyphosate onto their pea crops.

PURIS Pea Protein contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a valuable source of plant-based protein. While it does not have a Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) of 1.0, it can play an important role in supporting a balanced diet. You may have heard claims that plant proteins are "incomplete" and humans can't survive on a plant-based diet. That’s not true.

Many food companies want you to believe that humans need to drink milk, eat meat, and consume animal protein to sustain life. But humans can thrive on a balanced plant-based diet that is supported by pea protein. It’s good for people and all life on Earth.

Whey is an animal protein originating as a byproduct of the cheese-making process. Protein derived from whey contains higher levels of sugar, which influences the total calories per serving in whey protein supplements.

Just like whey, PURIS® Pea Protein offers all 20 amino acids. It is high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine that are critical for muscle protein synthesis.

The most significant nutrient difference observed between pea and whey proteins is the amino acid arginine, with PURIS® Pea Protein offering three times the amount compared to whey protein concentrate. Arginine aids blood flow by relaxing blood vessels, activates the release of growth hormone, and stimulates muscle protein synthesis.

Whey may not be suitable for eaters with dairy allergies or sensitivities, or those who live a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. If you are choosing plant-based but wish it tasted smooth like whey or milk protein — PURIS® Pea Protein is the product for you.

Source: Evoy, D., Lieberman, M. D., Fahey III, T. J., & Daly, J. M. (1998). Immunonutrition: the role of arginine. Nutrition, 14(7-8), 611-617.