Whey Protein: a simple buying guide

Whey protein is the most popular protein powder in the UK. It is made from whey, the liquid left when milk is turned into cheese, then filtered and dried into a powder that mixes easily with water or milk. Our Whey Protein range covers every type: whey concentrate, whey isolate, clear whey and hydrolysed whey, plus blends of these.

Concentrate is the everyday choice, creamy and usually the best value per serving. Whey isolate is filtered further, so it typically has more protein and less fat, carbohydrate and lactose per scoop. Clear whey is an isolate that mixes into a light, juice-style drink. Hydrolysed whey is partly broken down during processing. Protein contributes to a growth in muscle mass and to the maintenance of muscle mass. Popular lines include SciTec 100% Whey Protein Professional, BioTechUSA 100% Pure Whey and Iso Whey Zero, Naughty Boy Advanced Whey, Applied Nutrition Critical Whey, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey, Rule One R1 Whey Blend and Olimp Pure Whey Isolate 95. Whey contains milk, so it is not suitable for people with a milk allergy.

Shop the range: Whey Protein at NE Commerce

How to choose a whey protein

  • Protein per serving: compare grams of protein per scoop and per 100 g.
  • Type: concentrate for value, isolate for a leaner shake, clear whey for a juice-style drink.
  • Flavour: use the Flavour filter on our Whey Protein page, or try a smaller bag or sample first.
  • Value: larger tubs usually cost less per serving.

Related ranges and guides

FAQs

What is the difference between whey concentrate and isolate?

Isolate is filtered further than concentrate, so it usually contains more protein and less fat, carbohydrate and lactose per scoop. Concentrate is creamier and usually cheaper per serving.

When should I take whey protein?

Whenever it helps you reach your daily protein target: after training, with breakfast or as a snack. Total daily protein matters more than exact timing.

Is whey protein suitable for people who are lactose intolerant?

Whey contains milk. Isolates are lower in lactose than concentrates, but most are not lactose-free. Check the label, and choose a vegan protein if you avoid dairy.

How much whey protein should I take?

Follow the serving on the label, usually one scoop. How many servings you need depends on how much protein you already get from food.

Ready to compare? Browse our full Whey Protein range.

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