Electrodialysis technology for whey protein powder production

Casein vs whey

There are two basic types of protein in milk:

• 80% casein protein
• 20% whey protein

Casein and whey protein differ in digestion times. Casein protein digests slowly and provides a steady stream of amino acids which prevent tissue breakdown. Whey protein digests fast and more easily (it takes only about 20 minutes) which makes it ideal for muscle growth. Both proteins play an important role in our bodies and provide numerous health benefits.

Whey protein benefits

Whey protein has a very high nutritional value and is a huge source of high-quality proteins such as beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin, and immunoglobulins.

Whey protein benefits include:

• muscle growth,
• weight loss,
• lowering of cholesterol levels,
• lowering of blood pressure,
• antioxidant defence.

Whey protein concentrate vs whey protein isolate

Both whey protein concentrate (WPC) and whey protein isolate (WPI) are rich in protein content.

The main difference is that whey protein isolate has a higher protein content with lower levels of lactose and fat. This is caused by its longer manufacturing process. More demanding processing and also the higher protein content are reflected in its higher price.

Whey processing by MEGA

MEGA offers advanced electrodialysis units for whey powder demineralization, along with the know-how for gaining the maximum out of your raw ingredients.

MEGA helps to produce highly valuable ingredients from dairy by-products and helps to improve the quality of the final protein products such as:

• whey powder,
• whey permeate powder,
• lactose powder,
• UF permeate,
• skimmed milk,
• mother liquor,
• lactulose syrup,
• whey protein concentrate (WPC),
• whey protein isolate (WPI).

For less common types of dairy by-products, we also offer electrodialysis pilot trials.