Know what kind of protein powder you’re buying. Here’s a detailed comparison between Whey Protein Concentrate and Whey Protein Isolate.
There’s one huge mistake people make when buying protein powder: choosing concentrates over isolates.
It would be like buying bologna instead of prime rib just to save a buck. Sure, the bologna’s cheaper, but the quality of that food pales compared to that premium prime rib cut.
When it comes to selecting a protein powder, understanding the differences between whey protein concentrate (WPC) and whey protein isolate (WPI) can significantly impact your results. Both forms of whey are popular, but one is better than the other — way better. Here's what sets them apart.
Whey Isolates Equals Higher Protein Content
One of the primary distinctions between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate is their protein content. Whey protein concentrate typically contains around 80% protein, with the rest of the powder — a whopping considerable 20% — consisting of fats, carbohydrates, and other components.
Think about that. You wanted pure protein, but the concentrate only got you part of the way there. You only got 80 cents on the dollar!
Whey protein isolate, on the other hand, contains a much higher protein content — 90% or more. This higher percentage of protein is achieved through additional processing to remove more of the fats and carbohydrates.
This is hugely important for those trying to get lean and watching their intake of carbs and fat. To maximize protein intake while minimizing other macros, whey protein isolate is the superior choice.
You Get What You Pay For with Protein Powders
The difference in protein content between WPC and WPI is also reflected in their cost. Whey protein concentrate is significantly cheaper to produce than whey protein isolate. This cost difference often translates to the retail price, making WPC a more budget-friendly option for consumers.
However, it’s important to understand why there’s a price disparity. The higher cost of isolate comes from its more extensive processing requirements, which not only increase the purity of the protein but also enhance its absorption rate. Therefore, while you may save money upfront with WPC, the efficiency and purity of WPI will offer better value in the long run for those serious about the quality of their protein powder.
How to Know If You’re Buying the Right Protein
A quick way to gauge the quality of a protein powder is by examining its ingredient list. If whey protein concentrate is listed as one of the primary ingredients, the manufacturer is probably just trying to reduce production costs.
This is an immediate red flag that the protein content per serving is around that 80% level – that’s not good enough!
When looking at the product label, make sure “whey protein isolate” is listed as one of the first ingredients.
Pro JYM: One Protein Powder With ISOLATES ONLY
If you’re an athlete or otherwise active individual looking to maximize protein intake while minimizing fat and carbohydrate intake, investing in whey protein isolate is worth the additional marginal cost. Its higher protein content and greater purity make it the perfect protein powder to take around workouts.
Pro JYM always has and always will contain only isolates. The first specific protein type on the ingredients list is Whey Protein Isolate. The word “concentrate” is nowhere to be found on the label. The two other protein types in Pro JYM are micellar casein and another isolate — milk protein isolate.
I have other protein products in the JYM line, and all of them contain isolates, not concentrates. Iso JYM is a clear isolate whey protein consisting of 100% Whey Protein Isolate. JYM Protein Bars contain whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate, and no concentrates.
The decision between concentrates and isolates is an easy one. It all boils down to protein content and getting your money’s worth. Whey protein isolate is the clear winner.
