As you may have gathered from your research, whey protein comes in many varieties. Sometimes called whey concentrate, whey isolate or whey hydrolysate, these different names sometimes confuse bodybuilding enthusiastsand fans of endurance sports such as running or cycling.
Today, we're going to shed some light on all these names and how to choose the right whey for your goals. This information will help you choose between the different types of whey. And as a bonus, we'll introduce vegans to plant-based protein powders.
Raw whey, isolate and hydrolysate: what are the differences?
Although these designations are common on the web, they are not subject to any real legal regulation. As such, producers don't have to meet any particular requirements to call their products "concentrate", "isolate" or "hydrolysate". However, they do provide clues to the manufacturing process, as you will discover.
There are several types of protein powder, but generally speaking, all wheys are obtained by filtering whey, a fraction of milk after coagulation of casein (for cheese-making), or milk directly, to isolate the proteins. Read this article to learn more about the difference between whey and casein.
Let's get back to our subject. Microfiltration and ultrafiltration mainly remove lactose and lipids. The result is pure whey, rich in protein and highly digestible, which needs further drying. With moderate filtration, this process produces concentrated whey. This basic quality whey still contains lactose and fat.
For the preparation of whey isolate, manufacturers use a more advanced filtration process, guaranteeing a protein content of over 80/85%. The finished product will contain little or no lactose or lipids.
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In the case of whey hydrolysate, filtration is even more important, and the protein concentration is closer to 90%. What's more, the proteins are denatured and partially hydrolyzed, i.e. pre-digested. What sets this product apart is the speed with which proteins are assimilated, which is claimed to be even faster than with isolates. In principle, therefore, the body will have access to amino acids even more quickly. In our view, hydrolysate, which is a processed product and much more expensive than isolate, may be aimed at very high-level bodybuilders, but offers no added value compared to isolate.
Please note: the names whey concentrate, whey isolate and whey hydrolysate tend to be used less and less. Indeed, these designations lose their meaning with additive-free whey. These have to be blended with other ingredients that "lower protein values", compared with additives, which are used in very low volumes. At Protéalpes, for example, raw whey is effectively isolate. However, since whey is blended with natural, unprocessed ingredients, the "isolate" designation would no longer be consistent on the finished product.
Regarding whey processing, note that the cruder the whey, the more likely it is to foam, due to the foaming properties of milk proteins. Read this article to find out whether you should drink whey foam!
What to choose between whey, isolate and hydrolysate?
It's difficult for us to specifically favor one category of whey over another. Supplementation is also a question of objectives, budget and sensitivities. In the end, each individual will make his or her choice according to his or her requirements and aspirations. Generally speaking, whey isolate has all the characteristics to be the best candidate. Indeed, it boasts a high protein content with an excellent amino acid profile, high BCAA content and high bioavailability, all without resorting to a denaturing production process (cold ultrafiltration/microfiltration possible).
Our advice: look beyond the name of the product and focus on its overall quality. Take a close look at the composition and list of ingredients, prefer whey that is certified additive-free and anti-doping, and pay attention to the origin of the raw material (milk). Whenever possible, always choose a whey made in France, without additives or sweeteners.
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For post-workout supplementation, a low-lactose, low-fat whey (isolate or equivalent) remains the best alternative, with an excellent protein intake/price ratio. In itself, this product is perfect for optimizing mass gain and/or muscle recovery. It will help the strength or endurance athlete to progress efficiently. If you need more information, don't hesitate to consult our articles on the best whey for running and which whey to choose for cycling.
Hydrolysate is often shunned by athletes and bodybuilders. This is not only due to the much higher price. Some are rightly concerned about the impact of the manufacturing process on the product. Unlike whey isolate, hydrolysate has undergone processing before being marketed. We are therefore no longer dealing with a natural product, which has only been filtered and then dehydrated. The switch to hydrolysate is also accompanied by the addition of numerous additives, to ensure ideal blending and to mask the product's very pronounced taste.
Still haven't made up your mind? These 4 articles should shed some light:
- Which whey should you choose if you're a beginner?
- Which whey is right for top-level athletes?
- Which whey to choose for mass gain?
- Which whey to choose for a dry run?
What about plant-based whey?
Vegetable protein powders have been on the market for some years now. These proteins are not whey, as they are not derived from milk. They are a good alternative for vegans looking for animal-free protein supplementation.
That said, beyond the "green" communication conveyed by brands, plant proteins are not necessarily better for either the environment or the consumer. Low yields force some producers to resort to GM crops, and the manufacturing processes are less well known than those for whey. Indeed, producers jealously guard the secret of the various stages involved in preparing this animal-protein-free powder. Unfortunately, the processes often rely on the use of chemical solvents for protein extraction.
Finally, plant proteins provide amino acids less suited to post-exercise supplementation, with lower intakes of BCAAs and essential amino acids.
Please note: despite our warning about the "greenwashing" that can be carried out by certain brands, there are some excellent plant-based protein brands that respect the environment and the consumer, and are therefore good alternatives for vegans.
Not sure why you should be taking whey, or if it's the right choice for you? Our article on why take whey should help!
And to find out more :
- Is cheap Whey such a good deal for your health?
- When should you take your whey shaker?
- How many whey shakers per day?
