If you are not a bodybuilder, then the timing is not very relevant. We can eat protein at any time of the day. But if you do workout regularly, then a pre-workout protein snack or drink is also fine as this will help you power through your workout. But be sure to take it at least an hour before a workout as proteins take time to digest and you don’t want to work out immediately after a meal or drink. The recovery time after a workout is considered most appropriate for protein consumption as the body gets replenished with nutrients. Muscle growth gets a boost during this period. But there is no need to rush to consume post-workout supplements although a protein supplement seems to be quite effective when taken immediately after a workout session. If you prefer to take it afterward, make sure to take it within a few hours after the session as your muscles need these amino acids for repair and recovery.