Best whey protein to support lean muscle growth: 8 top picks to try in June 2025

Hindustan Times

18-06-2025

If building lean muscle is your fitness goal, choosing the right whey protein powder is essential. Packed with essential amino acids, especially BCAAs, whey protein supports faster muscle recovery, improves strength, and enhances workout performance. Whether you are lifting heavy or following an intense training regime, supplementing your diet with quality whey protein can help repair muscle tissues and promote hypertrophy. A wide range of these powders with advanced whey formulas are now available to match your specific fitness needs. From isolate to concentrate, these powders are designed to boost gains, fuel your workouts, and help you stay consistent. Let's explore the top whey protein powders trusted by fitness enthusiasts and trainers this season.
Whey protein may help improve cholesterol levels, as per a study published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. Here are some of the best whey protein powders that you can try for health benefits.
Designed for serious lifters, this clinically proven whey protein powder ensures 50% faster protein absorption and 60% better BCAA uptake. Each scoop delivers 25g of protein with added enzymes for digestion, improving recovery and lean muscle gains. Plus, it is rigorously tested and scoop-on-top ready.
Clinically tested
Faster absorption
Lab-certified purity
Slightly pricey
May cause bloating in sensitive individuals.
MuscleBlaze Biozyme Performance Whey Protein Powder, Rich Chocolate (1kg / 2.2lbs) | 25g Protein Per Scoop | Clinically Tested 50% Higher Protein Absorption
This protein powder blend uses ProHydrolase enzyme tech to help your body absorb and utilise protein more efficiently. With 25g of protein and 11g of EAA per scoop, this whey protein powder helps in muscle building and recovery, which makes it ideal for all fitness levels.
Informed Choice certified
Strong EAA profile
Great for beginners
Reported inconsistencies in protein content
Digestive discomfort for some
Bigmuscles Nutrition Premium Gold Whey [1Kg] | Informed Choice UK Certified | Isolate Whey Protein Blend | 25g Protein | 11g EAA | ProHydrolase Enzyme Technology [Malai Kulfi]
High on potency, this whey protein powder offers 27g of protein, 5.7g of BCAA, and added enzymes to aid quick absorption and recovery. It is certified by Labdoor USA. Moreover, this protein powder boasts clean labeling and minimal additives, which makes it perfect for fueling intense workouts or filling dietary protein gaps.
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High protein per scoop
Trusted lab certification
Clean formulation
Taste too sweet for some
Occasional mixability issues.
AS-IT-IS Nutrition ATOM Whey Protein 1kg | 27g protein | Isolate & Concentrate | Double Rich Chocolate | USA Labdoor Certified | With Digestive Enzymes for better absorption
Made from fresh cow's milk in India and packed within 24 hours, Avvatar delivers 27g of protein per scoop. It is rich in natural calcium and amino acids. Moreover, this unflavoured and versatile whey protein powder is great for adding to your meals or shakes without artificial additives.
Fresh and natural
Ideal for customisation
Lactose tolerance
Unflavoured variants may taste bland or odd to some.
avvatar Whey Protein | 1Kg | Unflavoured | 27g Protein | 29 Servings | Isolate & Concentrate Blend
With 24g of protein, 4.9g of BCAA, and added enzymes, this whey protein powder is a budget-friendly blend of whey isolate, concentrate, and milk solids. It is great for lean muscle gain, recovery, and even protein desserts. Moreover, it mixes well and satisfies your macro goals.
Good price-to-quality ratio
Tasty flavours
Suitable for daily use
Digestive discomfort like bloating or pain reported by some.
NAKPRO Impact Whey Protein 1kg | Isolate & Concentrate | 24g Protein & 4.9g BCAA | With Digestive Enzymes for better Absorption | NABL Lab Tested 100% Authentic Supplement Powder - Chocolate Flavour
A clean, lactose-free isolate packed with 25g of protein, Isopure also adds immune-boosting vitamins and biotin for skin health. With zero sugar, low carbs, and easy mixing, this whey protein powder is perfect for calorie-conscious users wanting quality without fillers.
Lactose-free
Added immune support
Low-carb
Clean label
Some complaints about smell, taste, and broken seals.
Isopure Whey Protein Isolate Powder with Vitamins for Immune Support & Biotine- 2.2 lbs, 1 kg (Dutch Choc), Lactose-Free, Gluten-Free, Veg protein for Men & Women. Offer Pack
Engineered with 30g of protein and 3g of creatine per scoop, this whey protein powder supports faster recovery, increased strength, and lean muscle gains. It is enhanced with BCAAs and glutamine, which makes this protein powder for women and men ideal for those pushing performance boundaries.
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High protein and creatine combo
Good for strength-focused users
Overly sweet taste
Mixed reviews on mixability and seal quality
MuscleTech Performance Series Nitro Tech Whey Protein Powder With Whey Isolates & Peptides, Chocolate Flavour
Combining 24g of protein, 5g of BCAA, and immunity-boosting vitamins, FuelOne is a solid post-workout option. It is light on the gut, free from sugar and spiking agents, and perfect for recovery and lean muscle development, especially for those watching additives.
Affordable
Smooth digestion
Rich in EAAs and vitamins
May not deliver equally strong results for all users.
FUELONE Whey Protein (Rich Chocolate, 1kg / 2.2lbs) | 24g Protein
1. Type: Before choosing the best protein powder, make sure to check its type. Choose between concentrate, isolate and hydrolysate to suit your needs.
2. Ingredients: Check the ingredients list of the best whey protein powders. Avoid products with added sugars, artificial flavoured or excessive fillers.
3. Protein content: Look for 20-25 grams of protein per serving for effective muscle gain.
4. Third-party testing: Opt for whey protein powders that are certified for purity and safety.
5. Digestibility: If you are lactose intolerant, opt for isolate or lactose-free options that come with added enzymes.
6. Fitness goals: Choose a formula based on your fitness goals like muscle gain, endurance or weight loss.
Yes, whey protein powder is effective for muscle gain. It provides a complete source of protein with all nine essential amino acids, especially BCAAs, which helps stimulate muscle protein synthesis. Regular intake of whey protein post-workout can help repair muscle tissues, reduce recovery time and support muscle hypertrophy. Its fast absorption rates also makes it perfect for fueling muscles after intense training. When combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, the best whey protein powder significantly enhances strength and lean muscle growth.
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The best time to take protein powder is post-workout for muscle recovery. You can also take it in the morning or between meals to meet daily protein needs.
Yes, protein increases satiety and helps preserve lean muscle during calorie deficits, making it an effective tool for managing appetite and supporting fat loss goals.
Yes, high-quality protein powder is safe for daily use when taken within recommended limits and as part of a balanced diet. Always follow serving guidelines.
One scoop of whey protein typically contains 20-25 grams of protein, depending on the brand and type (concentrate or isolate). Always check the label for exact nutritional information.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.