What is the difference between whey protein isolate and concentrate?

Most people have heard of whey protein, but few know the nuanced differences between the two main forms that are found in protein supplements: isolate and concentrate.

When it comes to protein powder, the two most common forms of whey are concentrate and isolate. Whey protein isolate is a very finely filtered form of whey protein. In general, whey protein contains a very small amount of lactose (less than 1%). However, the filtration process that produces whey protein isolate leaves it with virtually no lactose content. Additionally, whey protein isolate generally has less fat, cholesterol, carbohydrates, and calories than its cousin whey protein concentrate. This makes it a great option for those with particularly acute lactose intolerance, as well as those looking to maintain muscles while losing fat. The best whey protein isolates typically contain at least 90% protein, a higher protein content than its concentrated form.

Whey protein concentrate, on the other hand, is packed with biologically active components with beneficial properties – the “good stuff” you’d find in whole milk. Concentrate has a higher percentage of lactose than the isolated form of whey, but is still relatively low in fats and carbohydrates. The protein content of whey protein concentrates depends on how concentrated it is, with most whey concentrates containing between 70-80% protein. Rich in BCAA’s (branched chain amino acids) as well as glutamine, whey protein concentrate is a great choice for those looking to build or maintain muscles, or recover after a workout. Check out our blog post on the different types of whey at https://gainful.com/blog/protein-powder/whey-protein-isolate-or-concentrate/.