Despite its rep as a carb source, rice contains a fair amount of protein—around four grams per cup of white rice, and more than five grams per cup of brown rice. Because brown rice offers slightly more protein, most rice protein supplements are derived from it. Rice protein powder is made by grinding up rice grains and treating them with an enzyme that separates the starch (carbohydrate) from the protein.

Rice protein is considered a medium-digesting protein. It absorbs more slowly than whey (which is the speediest one on the market), but it’s faster than casein (the slowest-digesting protein).

Rice protein is not technically a complete protein, but, as we’ll discuss below, it contains enough of the nine essential amino acids (EAAs) to be a great plant-based muscle-builder regardless.

Brown Rice Protein is a popular eco-friendly supplement in vegan and vegetarian diets for an active lifestyle. Being easily digestible and hypoallergenic, it is also a suitable alternative for people with food intolerances. It is absolutely safe for people who suffer from allergies or hypersensitivity to soy, lactose, eggs, nuts, or gluten. It is often combined with pea protein for optimal amino acid content. Bodybuilding enthusiasts who rely on plant-based products in their diet greatly appreciate the protein in brown rice. The great advantage of brown rice protein powder is that its inclusion in the diet can cause a similar weight gain as the consumption of whey, as long as it is accompanied by a balanced diet that contains all the necessary nutrients.