What is the Difference Between Whey and Isolate Protein? - An Expert's Perspective

Whey Protein & Whey Isolate are both derived from milk but Whey Isolate is leaner & lower-fat source of protein. Learn more about their differences & benefits.

What is the Difference Between Whey and Isolate Protein? - An Expert's Perspective

Whey Protein and Whey Isolate are both derived from the same concentration of milk, but Whey Isolate is a leaner, lower-fat source of protein that has been filtered to remove lactose. This makes it a better choice for those with lactose intolerance. However, if you are allergic to dairy products, both whey and whey isolate can cause stomach discomfort. In that case, look for plant-based proteins instead.

Whey isolate

has a higher protein content (approximately 90% pure protein) and contains less cholesterol, carbohydrates, lactose and fat (less than 1% lactose content).

It's ideal for people who have dietary restrictions, such as lactose sensitivity or limited carbohydrate intake. Isolated whey is usually slightly more expensive than whey concentrate due to the additional filtering it is subjected to. Most research on protein powders has found that whey protein is the best way to build muscle. After reaching a sufficient protein concentration, the liquid can be dried to form a whey powder concentrate consisting of up to 80% protein by weight. If different processing steps are used to reduce the fat and carbohydrate content of whey, an isolated whey powder can be produced that contains 90% or more protein by weight. Both whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate have significant benefits, but whey protein isolate is a purer form of whey protein and has a higher protein percentage, sometimes much higher than whey concentrate.

Many vegan proteins are also a source of fiber and contain digestive enzymes, and although they are lower in calcium than whey, they are higher in iron.

Whey isolate

may be a good option for those who carefully limit their intake of fat, carbohydrates, or lactose, although this form of whey is usually more expensive. While this makes sense because of the higher purity of whey isolate, taking a larger amount of whey concentrate can give you the same dose of protein, often at a lower cost. It's also worth noting that many supplements contain a protein blend that includes both whey isolate and whey concentrate. In general, the processing steps used in the production of whey isolate result in higher protein content and lower fat and carbohydrate content per serving. If you're looking for an effective way to build muscle mass or just want to increase your daily intake of protein without adding too many calories or fat to your diet, then whey isolate may be the right choice for you. It's important to remember that both whey concentrate and whey isolate have their own unique benefits and drawbacks.

Consider your dietary needs and budget when deciding which type of whey is best for you.

Ashley Wools
Ashley Wools

Infuriatingly humble food advocate. Friendly bacon specialist. Friendly beer scholar. Total tvaholic. Award-winning tv junkie. Extreme twitter trailblazer.