How Protein Powder Is Made
Protein is considered to be the building block of every cell and
function within a living organism. Technological advances enabled
protein manufacturing to be developed as a means to supplement a
balanced nutritional diet.
According to the Whey Protein Institute, whey and casein protein are the
most common forms made from milk. These two types of proteins are not
normally produced by the human body but their benefits are well
documented and praised by bodybuilders and nutritional experts.
In the first stage of production, the liquid byproduct of cheese gets
collected and goes through a filtration process. The filtration
separates the protein from other byproducts by passing through
microfibers with microscopic pores. Once the protein gets retain by the
filters, the second stage comes to play to further concentrate and
purify the protein. This process is referred to as the “ion exchange”
and consists of protein separation based on their electrical charge.
During this process, some of the protein such as immunoglobulin become
denaturized or damaged. However, most of the content remains intact.
Once the ion exchange is completed, the concentrated whey protein enters
a drying process. This final step will remove the remaining water,
turning the protein into a concentrated dust. As an additional
production process, flavors are added to the whey protein before getting
it sent to the packaging line.
The finished product is usually consumed mixed with milk or water. Due
to its fast absorption rate, bodybuilders drink their protein shakes 30
minutes before and after workouts. This helps the muscles repair and
recover faster. Normally, during the workout sessions, micro muscle
ruptures take place. With a normal diet, it can take from 3 to 5 days
for the muscle to rebuild. Also the absorption time of food provided
protein can reach up to four hours. Whey protein reduces the recovery
and absorption time.
