So, you're new to fitness and you've decided to venture into the world of supplements. The first thing to tackle is Protein Powder but after doing some googling, you find yourself even more confused. All of the different brands, types and ingredients have totally clouded your brain and you just can't figure out why some Protein Powders cost more than others.
Well, in this article, we're going to explore two of the most common forms of Whey Protein (Whey Protein Concentrate and Whey Protein Isolate) then explain why Whey Protein Concentrate is generally cheaper than Whey Protein Isolate.
What is Whey Protein Concentrate?
Whey Protein Concentrate is a form of Whey Protein that undergoes a relatively simple production process. It starts with the collection of Whey, a by-product of cheese production. The Whey is then filtered to remove any impurities, such as fat and lactose, while retaining the Protein content. This filtration process typically involves the use of micro-filtration or ultrafiltration techniques. The resulting product is Whey Protein Concentrate, which contains around 70-80% Protein by weight (WPC80). The remaining percentage consists of carbohydrates, fats, and minerals.
How is Whey Protein Isolate Produced?
Whey Protein Isolate, on the other hand, undergoes an additional step to further purify the Protein content. After the initial filtration process used for Whey Protein Concentrate, the Whey Protein undergoes a process called ion exchange. This process involves the use of ion exchange resins or ceramic filters to remove more impurities, including lactose and fat. The result is a Whey Protein product with an even higher Protein content of around 90-95% by weight (WPI90). Whey Protein Isolate contains minimal amounts of carbohydrates, fats, and lactose, making it a popular choice for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a low-carbohydrate diet.
Why is Whey Protein Concentrate Cheaper than Isolate?
The production process for Whey Protein Concentrate is less complex and requires fewer purification steps compared to Whey Protein Isolate. This difference in processing translates to a lower production cost for Whey Protein Concentrate, making it generally more affordable than whey Protein Isolate. Additionally, the higher protein content of Whey Protein Isolate makes it more desirable for certain individuals, leading to a higher demand and, consequently, a higher price. However, it is important to note that both Whey Protein Concentrate and Whey Protein Isolate offer similar benefits in terms of muscle recovery, muscle growth, and overall health.
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, Whey Protein Concentrate and Whey Protein Isolate are two popular forms of Whey Protein with different production processes. Whey Protein Concentrate undergoes a simpler filtration process, resulting in a lower Protein content compared to Whey Protein Isolate. The additional purification steps involved in producing Whey Protein Isolate contribute to its higher Protein content and, subsequently, its higher price. It's totally up to you in terms of which Whey Protein you choose, but both can be valuable additions to your fitness and health routine.
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By: Tegan Wright | Copy Writer
