Clear Whey

Buy Clear Whey: clear protein lemonade made from whey isolate

Clear whey is a relatively new type of protein supplement: instead of a creamy, milky shake, you get a clear, refreshing protein lemonade. Clear whey is made from whey isolate that has been processed so that it dissolves into a juice- or lemonade-like drink. Proteins contribute to an increase in muscle mass and to the maintenance of muscle mass and normal bones. In our range, you will find clear whey from well-known sports nutrition brands in various fruity flavors.

What is clear whey?

Clear whey is a protein powder made from whey isolate that, when dissolved in water, produces a clear and refreshing drink instead of a classic, creamy protein shake. The base is hydrolyzed or specially processed whey isolate, a highly purified form of whey protein. Because the protein is processed differently, it dissolves into a thin, juice- or lemonade-like liquid with fruity flavors. Like other whey proteins, clear whey provides a complete protein with all essential amino acids. The label states how much protein a serving provides, usually around 20 grams per shake.

What do proteins contribute to?

Clear whey is a source of protein. The following authorized health claims apply to protein: proteins contribute to an increase in muscle mass, to the maintenance of muscle mass and to the maintenance of normal bones. A clear whey drink makes it easier to achieve a targeted protein intake, for example around exercise, in a lighter and fresher form than a classic shake. It is a supplement to, and not a replacement for, a varied diet with sufficient protein. The label states how much protein a serving provides.

How is clear whey made?

Clear whey is made from whey isolate that undergoes an additional processing step. While a regular whey shake remains cloudy and creamy, the protein for clear whey is treated (often through a form of hydrolysis and adjustment of the acidity) so that it dissolves in water into a clear, thin liquid instead of a milky drink. This gives clear whey its characteristic juice- or lemonade-like character with fruity flavors. The base remains whey protein from milk; the difference lies in the processing and the resulting texture.

Clear whey versus a classic whey shake

The biggest difference from a regular whey shake lies in the texture and experience. A classic whey shake (made from concentrate or isolate) is creamy and milky in taste. Clear whey, on the other hand, is clear, thin, and refreshing, with fruity flavors reminiscent of lemonade or iced tea. For those who do not enjoy the milky texture of a regular shake, or need something refreshing (for example after an intensive workout or on a hot day), clear whey is an attractive alternative. In terms of protein content per serving, they are comparable; the difference lies mainly in taste and texture.

Does clear whey contain lactose?

Clear whey is based on whey isolate, the highly purified form of whey protein. Whey isolate contains a high protein percentage and low fat and carbohydrates, including little milk sugar (lactose). Whey isolate usually contains less lactose than whey concentrate. The exact lactose content varies by product and is stated on the label; some clear whey products are labeled as (virtually) lactose-free. Please note: clear whey remains a dairy product derived from milk. It is therefore not suitable for those with a milk protein allergy or those who eat completely plant-based; for those situations, there are plant-based proteins.

How do you prepare clear whey?

Dissolve clear whey in a generous amount of cold water; the colder the water, the fresher the drink. Unlike a creamy shake, clear whey does not become thick or milky, but remains thin and clear. Mix it with a shaker or spoon until the powder is dissolved. The ratio of powder to water is stated on the packaging; more water makes the taste milder and the drink more refreshing. Clear whey is often used after a workout or as a refreshing protein moment in between.

Buying clear whey: what to look for?

When choosing a clear whey, a few points are practical to keep in mind. Look at the amount of protein per serving (often around 20 grams) and at the carbohydrate, sugar, and lactose content. Pay attention to the flavor (usually fruity variants) and to the number of servings per package in relation to the price per serving. Determine whether clear whey (fresh, clear) suits you or whether you prefer a classic, creamy whey shake. Clear whey is a protein supplement; for the full protein range, also view our Protein collection.

Want to know more? Read our explanation what clear whey isolate is and which one to choose.