Whey protein or whey protein is a component of many protein powders for athletes. What's behind it?
- Whey protein is protein that is left in the whey during cheese making. It is used, for example, in sports products.
- The list of ingredients provides information about what is in protein powders. In addition to various protein concentrates, these can also be thickeners or sweeteners.
- The same applies to athletes: Nothing speaks against a mixture of animal and vegetable protein sources. On the contrary: mixing increases the biological value of the protein.
Whey protein: formerly waste, now a valuable raw material
Today, whey is no longer a waste material, but contains valuable raw materials for many processed foods. The ingredient whey protein seems to be particularly interesting for people who do sports.
What is whey or whey protein?
During cheese production, fat and protein are separated from the milk. What remains is whey - a liquid that mainly contains lactose as a solid component. But it also contains minerals, free amino acids and protein residues, the whey protein. Because of the high water content, the whey is concentrated. The concentrate is used to produce numerous raw materials for further processing, such as whey protein isolate or whey hydrolyzate. In the latter, the protein content is highest and the whey protein is already broken down into the smallest components. It is therefore quickly absorbed in the intestine and is practically “pre-digested”.
How valuable is whey protein?
Whey protein is very valuable for human nutrition because it contains all the essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. It is therefore used, for example, for infant or sports food. Biological value is a measure of how much body protein can be built from dietary protein. Whey protein has the highest when considering protein sources such as milk, meat, soy or peas individually.
“The protein value can be significantly increased through clever combinations, for example by combining potatoes and eggs, beans and grains or soy and rice.”
Simone Goetz from the consumer advice center MV eV
Many plant-based protein sources offer benefits such as fiber or vitamins.
What does “whey” mean?
When it comes to protein concentrates for athletes, the term “whey” is usually used, the English word for whey.
“The term “whey” as a product name is not legally regulated.”
Simone Goetz from the consumer advice center MV eV
Protein powders with whey protein are usually sold under this product name, but it does not say anything about other ingredients. Whey protein powders contain whey protein concentrates, isolates or hydrolysates. The more the whey proteins are broken down, the bitterer they taste. That's why sweeteners are often used to make the taste pleasant. It can also contain cheaper vegetable protein concentrates, e.g. B. from soy, as well as thickeners and release agents.
So if you prefer the expensive whey protein, you should pay attention to the list of ingredients.
“However, if you cannot find a list of ingredients when shopping online, it is better to avoid shopping.”
Simone Goetz from the consumer advice center MV eV
Does it have to be “whey”?
Science agrees that a mix of different protein sources in the diet is the best choice for athletes. This ensures a high proportion of essential amino acids and the benefits of plant protein sources such as lentils, beans, peas, soy and grains can be fully exploited.
Conclusion
Whey protein powder contains high-quality protein. As an athlete, you can easily cover your protein needs with a varied menu. And “pre-digestion” is also not necessary for healthy people.
Source:
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania Consumer Center
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