Whey protein compared

Whey is the best-selling protein powder in strength and endurance sports. The word covers quite different products, though, and the main difference is the processing stage.

A concentrate contains some lactose and fat alongside the protein and is the cheapest per kilo. An isolate is filtered further, reaches a higher protein content and is lower in lactose, which makes it interesting for sensitive stomachs. A hydrolysate is additionally split enzymatically and is absorbed faster; it is the most expensive stage. Clear whey, finally, is an isolate that dissolves into a clear, juice-like drink rather than a milkshake: a matter of taste, not of effect.

Three rows are worth your attention. The protein source shows which processing stage you are looking at. The protein content tells you how much protein the tub actually holds, and the sugar content how heavily it was flavoured. If you want the detail, the full amino acid profile is further down, including the leucine share and the branched-chain amino acids.

All nutritional values are calculated per 100 g and therefore directly comparable, regardless of the serving size the manufacturer declares. Pack sizes range from the small trial tub to the five-kilo drum.