Whey protein is a mixture of proteins isolated from whey, which is the liquid part of milk that separates during cheese production.
Milk contains two main types of protein:
- Casein (80%)
- Whey (20%)
Whey is found in the watery portion of milk. When cheese is produced, the fatty parts of the milk coagulate, and the whey is separated from it as a byproduct.
If you’ve ever opened a yogurt container to see liquid floating on top: that’s whey. Cheesemakers used to discard it before they discovered its commercial value.
After being separated during cheese production, whey goes through various processing steps to become what people generally recognize as whey protein — a powder that is added to shakes, meal replacements, and protein bars.
Whey protein doesn’t taste very good on its own, which is why it’s usually flavored.
Chocolate-, vanilla-, coffee, and strawberry-flavored powders are popular.
It’s important to read the ingredient list, as some products may have unhealthy additives like refined sugar.
Taking whey protein is a convenient way to add protein on top of your daily intake.
This can be important for bodybuilders and gym enthusiasts, as well as people who need to lose weight or are simply lacking protein in their diet.
Most flavored whey proteins are also rather delicious and can be used to add an incredible taste to healthy recipes like smoothies.
Whey is generally well tolerated, though people with lactose intolerance need to be careful, and some people may even be allergic to it.
