How do they turn protein into a powder?

Protein is turned into powder through a process that involves separating and drying protein sources.

Protein Powder Production: A Step-by-Step Look

The creation of protein powder, such as whey and casein, from milk involves several key steps:

1. Milk Pasteurization: The process begins with pasteurized milk.

2. Enzyme Addition:

   • Enzymes are added to the milk to cause it to curdle. According to the provided reference, "Enzymes are added to make the milk curdle."
   • This is a crucial step that separates the milk into solid and liquid components.

3. Separation:

   • The milk is separated into a solid portion (curds) and a liquid portion (whey).
   • The solid curds are used to produce cheese or casein.

4. Whey Processing:

   • The liquid whey, which contains whey protein, is then processed to create whey protein powder.

5. Spray Drying:

   • The liquid whey may be spray dried. Spray drying is a method where the liquid is sprayed into a hot chamber, causing the water to evaporate and leaving behind a fine protein powder.
   • This process turns the liquid into a dry, powdered form.

Summary of the Process

Step	Description	Result
Pasteurization	Milk is pasteurized.	Safe milk for protein processing.
Enzyme Addition	Enzymes are added to the milk.	Curdling of milk.
Separation	The milk is separated into solid and liquid parts.	Curds for cheese/casein; whey for processing.
Whey Processing	The liquid whey is extracted for processing.	Whey protein ready for drying.
Spray Drying	The whey is dried using a spray dryer	Protein powder.

By following these steps, manufacturers turn protein, found in sources like milk, into the convenient powder form we see on shelves.