Dairy Farm
Whey protein gets its start at the dairy farm, naturally present in cow’s milk.
Milking Parlor
Cows are brought into a specialized area for milking two to three times per day. Here the milk is collected from the cows.
Transportation
The milk is transported from the dairy farm to a manufacturing facility. Liquid tankers are generally used.
Separation
Upon arrival at the manufacturing facility the milk is tested for safety. Whey protein is produced during the process of making cheese. Special enzymes are added to the milk to create the separation of curds and the liquid whey.
Processing
The liquid whey is then pasteurized and dried into a powder form. Examples of process methods include; microfiltration and ion exchange.
Types
Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey protein are the highest quality sources of whey protein. Whey protein is available to the consumer as an ingredient in a wide variety of retail food products as well as in powder form as supplements.