Confused about what whey isolate protein is? We understand it can be confusing and we’re here to break it down for you.
Let’s take a brief look at whey protein in general for a moment.
Whey protein is a supplemental ingredient derived from milk. It has become quite popular because of the exceptional protein content it provides -- between 18 to 23 grams per serving.
It is also considered a superior and complete protein, highly beneficial for muscular health due to its exceptional branched-chain amino acid profile. This is why so many of our favorite protein snack bars and powders contain it.
Where Does Whey Protein Come From?
When cheese or yogurt is produced, the liquid that is extracted and collected from these products is whey.
From there, several steps are taken to enhance its protein content before it is made into powder form.
Two forms of whey can be derived from this process -- whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Both forms of whey protein are achieved through a similar process in that once the ideal amount of protein concentration is reached, the liquid is then dried into its concentrated powder form.
How is Whey Protein Isolate Different?
What makes whey protein isolate different from whey protein concentrate is the steps in the overall process. The process to achieve whey protein isolate is basically kicked up a notch to reduce the fat and carbohydrate content, and increase the protein levels to a higher percentage.
Both types of whey protein offer a similar amino profile but whey protein isolate comes out on top nutritionally as it has more protein and fewer carbohydrates and fats. Another perk is that with whey protein the amount of lactose is reduced to a very small percentage. Standard whey protein contains up to 1.5% lactose and milk fat, while whey protein isolate is closer to .5% of both. This can be beneficial to those who are lactose intolerant as this minute quantity is less likely to cause digestive distress.
From a taste perspective, whey protein isolate tends to have a cleaner taste than the concentrated form. It also offers a more pleasant mouthfeel with a smoother and creamier texture, whereas whey protein concentrate tends to be chalky and gritty.
Choosing the Right Whey Protein Isolate
Now that we’ve broken down the basics, let’s look further into choosing the right whey protein isolate.
In fact, this might be one of the most important aspects of this breakdown! At Rise Bar, we only use premium quality whey protein isolate in our whey bars. Where it comes from and how it was made is of the utmost importance to ensure that we’re providing our customers with an exceptionally clean and nutritionally superior product.
Our whey protein isolate comes from humanely raised cows with spacious growing conditions and have never been treated with artificial hormones. They are fed an all-natural diet of alfalfa, oats, wheat, and corn. We would accept nothing less for our Rise Bar recipes.
So which Rise Bars contain whey protein isolate? See for yourself!
