Settling the whey protein debate: isolate or concentrate?
If you didn’t know, whey protein is a complete protein source derived from milk. It’s usually a by-product of the cheese-making process, where milk is separated into solid curds and liquid whey. The liquid whey is then collected and turned into a protein-rich powder.
There are two common forms of whey protein: concentrate and isolate. Both contain high-quality protein, but what exactly sets these two types of whey protein apart from each other?
What is whey protein concentrate?
Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is the more commonly available form of whey protein.
Protein content: WPC typically contains 70–80% protein concentration, with the rest made up of carbohydrates, fats, lactose, vitamins, and minerals.
Nutritional value: WPC retains more of the naturally occurring nutrients found in milk, as it undergoes gentler filtration than whey protein isolate.
What is whey protein isolate?
Whey protein isolate (WPI) is a more intensively processed form of whey protein.
Protein content: WPI typically contains 90% or more protein.
Nutritional value: Due to additional filtration, WPI is stripped of more fats, carbohydrates, lactose, vitamins, and minerals.