Do you often wonder which protein supplement to pick up from the plethora of the jars and pouches placed on the aisle? The first thing you should figure out is the reason why you need these protein supplements. Are you looking to build muscles, recover from workouts, or simply fulfil your daily protein intake? Let us now dive deeper to understand the differences between protein concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate and this can help you make an informed choice.

Protein Concentrate - The All Rounder

The most basic form of protein supplement obtained by extracting protein from whole food plant sources such as whey, soy, peas, mung, fava or animal sources or dairy sources. A concentrate usually contains around 60-80% protein and the remaining 20-40% contains the naturally occurring carbohydrates, fats, minerals and other nutrients.

Common Sources

• Plant Sources : Chickpeas, Peas, Mung, Fava, Brown Rice, Soy etc

• Dairy Sources : Whey

Reasons to choose a protein concentrate

• A good combination of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, fibres etc as it retains naturally occurring nutrients of the original source.

• It comes at an affordable price as compared to isolates and hydrolysates

Reasons NOT to choose a protein concentrate

• They usually have high calorific content

• They are not suitable for people with dietary restrictions

• The proteins are not broken down into smaller molecules  or “pre-digested” which does not make them easier for absorption

Highlights

• A low cost protein supplement to fulfil the needs of your daily protein intake

• A wholesome supplement for individuals who do not have any dietary restrictions.
  
  

Protein Isolate - The Purified Option

An isolate is a refined version of protein concentrate. The extraction process eliminates other naturally occurring nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, minerals, fibres that will result in a higher protein concentration of more than 90%. Isolates are therefore pure forms of protein.

Common Sources

• Plant Sources : Chickpeas, Peas, Mung, Fava, Brown Rice, Soy etc

• Dairy Sources : Whey

Reasons to choose a protein Isolate

• Gives a good boost of protein for workout recovery and muscle building

• Preferred protein supplement due to its lower fat and carbohydrates content

• Acts as a calorie restricted protein source

• Better solubility as compared to concentrates

Reasons NOT to choose a protein Isolate

• The proteins are not broken down into smaller molecules  or “pre-digested” which does not make them easier for absorption.

• One may experience digestive issues due to consumption of pure proteins

• Not recommended for individuals with specific health conditions needing low protein diets 

Highlights

• A high protein supplement for gaining muscle mass and workout recovery

• Makes for a great low carb, low calorie and high protein supplement

Protein Hydrolysate: The Fast-Absorbing Champion

A hydrolysate, also known as hydrolyzed protein, is protein that has undergone enzymatic hydrolysis—a process that breaks down protein chains into smaller peptides. This pre-digestion process makes hydrolysates the fastest-absorbing form of protein, allowing for quicker delivery of amino acids to the muscles.

Common Sources

• Plant Sources : Chickpeas, Peas, Mung, Fava, Brown Rice, Soy etc

• Dairy Sources : Whey, Casein

• Animal Sources : Marine, Porcine, Bovine, Eggs

Reasons to choose a protein Hydrolysate

• The hydrolysis process breaks large protein molecules into smaller peptides, making it easier and faster for the body to absorb. 

• They demonstrate reduced allergenicity

• They can be absorbed better into the bloodstream and have enhanced digestibility

• Best suited for individuals who need easy to digest or pre-digested proteins

• Most effective for quick wound recovery 

Reasons NOT to choose a protein Hydrolysate

• They are high priced as compared to concentrates or isolates

• The hydrolysis process renders a slightly bitter taste hence it is important to get the right taste and flavour balance

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between consuming a protein concentrate, isolate, or hydrolysate ultimately depends on your age, health conditions, specific health goals, and budget.

• For General Nutrition: Go for Concentrates if you are looking for a nutrient dense supplement with the right balance of proteins and are not concerned about the other naturally occurring nutrients like carbohydrates, fibres, minerals a

• For Lean Muscle and Weight Management: Go for Isolates for a maximised protein intake coupled with low carb and low calorie source which is ideal for muscle building and weight management.

• For Fast Recovery and Digestive Ease: Go for hydrolysates for rapid protein absorption, faster healing and recovery and easy to digest protein supplement.