Raw protein and Whey protein?
As we know, protein is an integral macronutrient to our daily diet, especially if we intend to work-out on a regular basis.
By popular demand, the consumption of protein has been made more convenient, cheaper and widely accessible across the market. Protein's deconstruction down to a supplementary powder remains the real 'game-changer', with a wide variety of protein powders becoming the go-to supplement for the common gym-goer.
So, if you’re considering an investment in some protein powder, whether it be whey, raw, or plant-based etc. It's important to know which one best suits the requirements of your lifestyle and work-out routine.
Difference in Raw and Processed Protein
The difference in raw proteins compared to heavily processed proteins, is that raw proteins are not heated above 118f (48c). Most processed proteins are cooked at high temperatures, or require additional acids and enzymes to break down the protein more acutely, whereby giving it a higher concentrated protein content. This will suit those looking to gain muscle-mass quickly, but not necessarily your strict raw vegan.
On the other hand, despite generally having a lower percentage of protein, sources of raw protein maintain nutritional benefits, including fats, fibre, vitamins and amino acids, which would be otherwise removed during the concentration process.
So, all in all, it is dependent on your goal and choice of lifestyle. If you want fast results in muscle-gain, go processed, if you want a natural, healthier balance of pure protein with other nutritional advantages, choose raw.
Protein Powders and Protein Processing
There are several types of protein powders: whey, egg, pea, hemp, casein, brown rice and mixed-plant proteins – with 3 common forms of processing: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-protein-powder
Protein Concentrates – Taken from whole foods, such as animals or vegetables, where heat, acid or enzymes are used to extract the protein. This can supply up to 80% protein with what remains comprised of fat and carbohydrates.
Protein Isolates – This is where the processing goes through more concentration, thereby isolating the protein even further from the non-protein nutrition such as fat and carbs. This can supply up to 95% of protein.
Protein Hydrolysates – Takes a concentrate or isolate and goes through even more processing, maximising the protein and the speed of its absorption.
What is Whey Protein?
In a nutshell, the well-known, 'Whey’ protein, is made from milk. What was once discarded as liquid residue, formed from the curdling and straining of milk, ‘Whey’ transforms into a high protein concentrated supplement. Whey is simply given to the name of this left-over liquid, and its large popularity amounts to its proven record to restore and develop muscle-mass quickly and effectively. Supplied mostly in the form of a protein hydrolysate due to its fast absorption, whey protein also comes in the forms of concentrate, isolate and raw.
What is the difference between Whey Protein and Raw Whey Protein?
Raw whey protein is when the whey is separated from the solids. Fat and Lactose are not removed, and artificial flavourings are not added. This means there is a lower amount of protein, however, beneficial nutrients encouraging muscle growth are still included which would otherwise be missing in ‘Whey Protein Isolate’. This is due to ‘Raw Whey Protein’ not being heated during the process of its preparation, so the protein you receive remains in its purest form.
The lactose in whey is broken down by our digestive enzyme, lactase. For obvious reasons, whey protein is not suited to everyone. Obvious factors, of course, being anyone with a lactose intolerance or allergy. Alongside this, as we get older, it can become increasingly more difficult for our bodies to create lactase, resulting in the protein not being absorbed properly, which can cause abdominal discomfort.
Furthermore, whey is less environmentally friendly and sustainable due to its very essence being taken from milk. There are many other protein powders available which do not involve animal products and are vegan friendly.
Raw Organic Vegan Plant-Based Proteins
As noted earlier, the raw is defined by the preparation of the protein source not being heated above 118f (48c). This ensures that additional nutrients and enzymes are not destroyed in the cooking process. Raw foods are better known as being processed to a minimum. As most protein powders are processed, they may not be applicable to strict raw vegans. Vegan protein powders include a range of vegetables, fruit, grains and seeds, such as: pea, hemp, pumpkin (seed), chia, sunflower, soy, etc.
As a strict raw vegan, protein powders may be too processed for your liking, in which case it may be wise to exchange a protein shake for a raw vegan protein snack bar instead. Nagi do a range of raw vegan protein bars which are healthy, energy-boosting, and packed with protein to restore and enhance muscle growth. Visit our organic snack collection and browse the large variety and flavour combinations on offer!