Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate: What’s the Difference & Which Should You Choose?

Most people are aware of the benefits of adding clean protein to their diet, but once you start going down the nutritional rabbit hole, it's only natural that new questions emerge. If you're here, you're probably debating whether a whey protein concentrate or a whey protein isolate is right for you, and if that's the case, you're in the right place! 

Why the Difference Between Whey Isolate & Concentrate Matters for Your Goals

Although both whey protein isolate and concentrate come from the same source — the whey fraction of milk — their processing, macronutrient profiles, and price point differ. Whey isolate typically contains at least 90% protein, minimal lactose and fat, making it ideal for low-carb diets, lactose sensitivity, or lean muscle goals. Whey concentrate usually contains 70-80% protein, a bit more lactose and fat, but often at a lower cost and with a slightly richer flavour. The best choice depends on your individual goal: budget, digestion, macro targets, or taste.

In this article, you will learn:

• The difference between whey protein isolate and whey concentrate
• Whey protein isolate vs concentrate, which should you choose?

The Difference Between Whey Protein Isolate and Concentrate

The primary difference between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate is in the protein content. By weight, whey protein isolate has a greater percentage of protein than does concentrate, but in order to understand why this is, we have to put our manufacturing nerd hats on and dive into how both of these whey proteins are made.

How Organic Whey Protein Concentrate is Made

Whey protein is the liquid part of milk that separates from the curds during the cheesemaking process. It’s super high in protein and contains some fat, carbohydrate, vitamins, and minerals.

Whey concentrate is dried and processed into a powder that varies from about 30-80% protein. Natural Force Organic Grass Fed Whey is an 80% protein whey protein concentrate that is minimally processed to uphold the integrity of the amino acids and sourced from 100% USDA Organic, grass-fed, free-range cows. Each scoop of Natural Force Organic Grass Fed Whey contains a full 20 grams of protein-rich in BCAAs and bioactive peptides. 

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How Organic Whey Protein Isolate is Made

Compared to whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate is filtered even further to remove almost all traces of lactose, fat, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.

1. Microfiltration removes curd particles and casein.
2. Ultrafiltration removes any non-protein, low molecular weight particles.
3. Nanofiltration concentrates the whey and removes any last remnants of lactose and salts.
4. The powdering process removes remaining water, leaving pure powdered whey protein.
5. The sifting process banishes clumps and makes the whey isolate perfect for mixing into liquids and smoothies.
6. The final product is bagged, sealed, and shipped!

All whey protein isolates must contain at least 90% protein and naturally include a higher concentration of branched-chain amino acids than whey protein concentrate. 

Isolate vs Concentrate: Which Should You Choose?

Whey protein, in general, is famous for its super-high protein content, digestibility, and neutral taste. Whether you’re an athlete or a smoothie lover, you likely know the importance of a clean protein source. But when it comes to choosing an isolate vs a concentrate form of whey protein, which should you choose?

If you’re looking to supplement your protein intake to aid in fat loss, muscle gain, or are just looking for a meal replacement, whey concentrate is an amazing place to start.

If you’re an athlete and are hitting it hard at the gym, whey protein isolate is perfect for huge gains and a faster recovery.

Regardless of which one you choose, however, simply adding whey protein to your diet will benefit you in a multitude of ways:

1. Your body absorbs whey protein more quickly than other protein sources for an anabolic effect that supports fat loss and increases your muscle-to-fat ratio.
2. BCAAs from whey protein help increase athletic performance, reduce fatigue, and keep your immune system strong, even when you’re pushing your body to the max.
3. Amino acids in whey protein support your immune system and aid in recovery by reducing inflammation and increasing your body’s natural production of the master antioxidant glutathione.
4. Protein doesn’t just keep you feeling full; it also helps balance blood sugar by reducing glucose, stimulating the release of insulin, and decreasing the hunger hormone ghrelin.

Are you a whey protein fan? Do you prefer to isolate or concentrate? Share your story in the comments below, and thanks for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What are the main differences between whey isolate and concentrate? Whey isolate undergoes more filtration, typically 90%+ protein, lower lactose & fat; concentrate is less processed, 70-80% protein, slightly higher lactose and fat. 
• Which is better for lactose intolerance: isolate or concentrate? If you are lactose intolerant, whey isolate is generally better because it contains less lactose due to higher filtration. 
• If cost is an issue, when is whey concentrate still a smart choice? If you tolerate dairy, don’t need ultra-low carbs or lactose-free status, and are looking for value, whey concentrate offers many of the same amino acid benefits at a lower cost.
  
  
  

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