Proteins

WPC is whey protein concentrate, WPI is whey protein isolate, and casein is another milk protein. Isolate generally has a higher protein content and less fat and lactose than concentrate, but check the nutrition table of the finished flavoured product. A multi-source protein can combine these ingredients. Compare the actual formula, rather than relying on the word Whey on the packaging.

Lactose-free does not mean free from milk protein. Whey Protein Lactose Free still contains whey, so it is not a solution for a milk allergy. Goat milk protein is also a dairy product. If you need to avoid lactose, look for an explicit product claim and its lactose content; the names Isolate or GOAT alone do not guarantee a lactose-free formula.

No. Powder weight and protein content are different figures. For example, HERA Protein chocolate lists 18 g of protein in a 26 g serving. Compare products using values per 100 g, then use the values for your measured serving to work out your drink. Adding milk instead of water changes the final amount of protein, carbohydrate and energy.

Read the full ingredient list, not just the highlighted ingredient. Optimal Vegan Protein combines rice and pea protein, whereas Fusion Protein adds whey to pea and rice. Egg protein and blends containing animal collagen are not vegan. If you have an allergy, also check the possible traces of allergens listed for the specific flavour.

Protein powder is not compulsory after every workout. It can help fill a gap when you cannot get enough protein from ordinary meals. A recovery blend may also provide substantial carbohydrate: a 50 g serving of Optimal Recovery Whey chocolate contains 20 g each of protein and carbohydrate. Choose according to what you need to add, and compare carbohydrate and recovery blends too.