# Whey Protein Concentrate

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/whey-protein-concentrate.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 977102-05-8
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** yes
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

Whey Protein Concentrate is a dairy-derived ingredient produced by removing water and lactose from whey, the liquid byproduct of cheese making. It functions as a nutrient supplement, flavor enhancer, and texturizer in various food and beverage products.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | approved |
| Canada | approved |
| Australia | approved |
| Japan | approved |
| South Korea | approved |
| Brazil | approved |
| China | approved |
| India | approved |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Whey Protein Concentrate?

Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) is a food ingredient derived from whey, the liquid portion separated during cheese production. Through microfiltration, ultrafiltration, or other processing methods, water and lactose are removed to create a concentrated powder or liquid containing 35-80% protein by weight, depending on the concentration level. The remaining composition includes lactose, minerals (calcium, phosphorus), and milk fat. WPC is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids required by the human body.

## Common Uses

Whey Protein Concentrate appears in numerous food categories due to its multifunctional properties. In beverages, it is commonly found in protein drinks, nutritional shakes, and sports drinks. The ingredient is also used in yogurt, cheese products, and desserts to enhance protein content and improve texture. WPC serves as a binder and thickener in processed meats, baked goods, and confectionery items. In infant formula and medical nutrition products, it provides essential amino acids and nutritional fortification. The ingredient also enhances flavor profiles in various applications while improving moisture retention and shelf stability.

## Safety Assessment

Whey Protein Concentrate has an established safety record in food applications. The FDA recognizes WPC as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), indicating it meets stringent safety standards. According to FDA records, there are zero reported adverse events associated with this ingredient and zero product recalls attributable to WPC safety concerns. This demonstrates consistent safety in commercial use.

For consumers with lactose intolerance, WPC may present concerns since concentration levels vary; products with higher protein percentages contain less lactose, while lower concentrations retain more. Individuals with milk allergies should avoid WPC, as it is a dairy-derived protein. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has similarly found whey proteins safe for the general population at typical dietary levels.

Allergenic potential is limited to those with documented milk protein sensitivity. WPC is hypoallergenic compared to whole milk due to processing that removes some allergenic proteins, though cross-reactivity remains possible for individuals with severe dairy allergies.

## Regulatory Status

Whey Protein Concentrate is approved for use in the United States under FDA regulations as a GRAS ingredient. It is permitted in numerous food categories without quantitative restrictions, as it is derived from a common food source (milk) and has a long history of safe use. The ingredient is also approved in Canada, European Union member states, Australia, and most other developed nations. In the EU, whey protein is listed as an approved food additive under EC Regulation 1333/2008. International regulatory bodies, including Codex Alimentarius, recognize whey proteins as safe food ingredients.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature supports the safety and nutritional benefits of whey protein concentrate. Research published in peer-reviewed journals demonstrates that WPC is well-tolerated across diverse populations, including children, adults, and elderly individuals. Studies on protein digestibility and amino acid bioavailability confirm that WPC efficiently delivers essential amino acids. Long-term consumption studies show no adverse effects on kidney or liver function in healthy individuals. Research on lactose content in various WPC concentrations helps consumers and manufacturers select appropriate formulations. Sports nutrition studies validate WPC's role in muscle protein synthesis and recovery, supporting its use in athletic and wellness products.

## Brands using Whey Protein Concentrate

- Cheetos (25 products)
- Velveeta (18 products)
- Doritos (14 products)
- Utz (10 products)
- Abbott (9 products)
- Enfamil (9 products)
- Philadelphia (9 products)
- Oikos (7 products)
- Rexall Sundown, Inc. (7 products)
- Fiber One (6 products)
- Abbott Nutrition (5 products)
- Bob Evans (4 products)
- Kraft Heinz Foods Company (4 products)
- Ruffles (4 products)
- utz (4 products)
- Bob Evans Farms Inc (3 products)
- Cheez-It (3 products)
- Frito-Lay Company (3 products)
- GENERAL MILLS SALES INC. (3 products)
- Hot Pockets (3 products)
- KSF Acquisition Corporation (3 products)
- PHILADELPHIA (3 products)
- Publix Super Markets, Inc. (3 products)
- Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (3 products)
- Abbott Laboratories Inc (2 products)
- Bobbie (2 products)
- Bolthouse Farms (2 products)
- Bristol-Myers Squibb/Mead Johnson Nutritionals (2 products)
- Bubs (2 products)
- CLIF (2 products)

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Whey Protein Concentrate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/whey-protein-concentrate. Accessed 2026-05-20.