The Difference Between WPI 90 & WPC 80

One of the most commonly asked questions we get at True is ‘what’s the difference between whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate?’ While the differences are subtle in terms of protein content and health benefits, there are a few things to consider before deciding which product is right for you.

What is whey protein and how is it made?

WPC 80 and WPI 90 have the exact same beginnings. The key difference is that WPI goes through an extra step of filtration to achieve further refinement, thus giving it a higher protein content.

Whey is one of two protein compounds found in cow’s milk – the other being casein. To make a protein powder, first, the whey must be separated from the casein. This is achieved by adding special enzymes to heated milk, causing the casein in the milk to coagulate and form curds. Once the liquid whey has been separated from the curds it goes through a filtration process to strip it of much of its fat and lactose content. It is micro-filtrated to become WPC 80 and goes through a further ultrafiltration process to make WPI 90. These filtered liquids are then evaporated and dried to become pure protein powders, which is how they arrive at True Protein HQ, where we blend them with all-natural flavours.

The raw protein is a neutral-tasting powder that is composed almost entirely of protein compounds. It is rich in nutrients and contains all nine essential amino acids, which are renowned for their ability to trigger muscle protein synthesis and protect muscles from breakdown, as well as being critical to our overall health.