Whey concentrate, isolate and hydrolyzed: what's the difference?
All three are milk proteins. Concentrate and isolate differ in how much is filtered out, and hydrolyzed whey is partly pre-digested. Protein and lactose content depend on each product, so check the label.
Whey concentrate
Filtered to concentrate the protein, but some fat and lactose may remain. The amounts depend on the recipe, so check the label.
Whey isolate
Filtered further so there's much less fat and lactose, and usually more protein per gram of powder. Scoop sizes and ingredients vary, so check each product's lactose information. An example in our store is Biovitt Whey Protein Isolate but it's still milk protein, so people allergic to cow's milk protein can't have it.
Hydrolyzed whey
Partly pre-digested, and often pricier than regular whey. In our store that's Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydro Whey at ฿3.39 per gram.
Allergic to cow's milk? What to choose
Choose plant protein, such as pea and rice protein like Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Plant and always read the allergen label. If your allergy is severe, talk to a doctor first.
Quick summary
- Best value: whey blend or concentrate
- Trouble with lactose: check the label for lactose content, not just the word isolate
- Cow's milk allergy: avoid whey, and check plant protein labels for cross-contamination
Further reading: U.S. Dairy · FARE: milk allergy vs lactose intolerance
