What’s the difference between the various types of whey protein?

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Whey protein concentrate is the least processed form of whey protein and is 35%–80% protein by weight, although most whey protein concentrate powders tend to be standardized at 80% protein by weight.[1]

Whey protein isolate is defined as being more than 90% protein by weight.

Whey hydrolysate is protein that has been pretreated with enzymes and acid to reduce its particle size; it’s the fastest absorbed form of whey. Hydrolyzation reduces the allergic potential of whey and milk protein, which is why hydrolyzed whey is often used in infant formula. Hydrolyzed whey also tends to have better solubility and digestibility.[2]

Is one form better than the others? There haven’t been many comparison studies, although one trial noted that whey hydrolysate may enhance muscle recovery more than whey isolate[3] and another found that whey hydrolysate may increase muscle protein synthesis at rest more than casein or casein hydrolysate (a faster-absorbed form of casein).[4]

References
1.^Carunchia Whetstine ME, Croissant AE, Drake MACharacterization of dried whey protein concentrate and isolate flavor.J Dairy Sci.(2005-Nov)
3.^Buckley JD, Thomson RL, Coates AM, Howe PR, DeNichilo MO, Rowney MKSupplementation with a whey protein hydrolysate enhances recovery of muscle force-generating capacity following eccentric exerciseJ Sci Med Sport.(2010 Jan)
4.^Bart Pennings, Yves Boirie, Joan M G Senden, Annemie P Gijsen, Harm Kuipers, Luc J C van LoonWhey protein stimulates postprandial muscle protein accretion more effectively than do casein and casein hydrolysate in older menAm J Clin Nutr.(2011 May)