Performance
Whey Protein
Also known as: Whey concentrate, Whey isolate, Whey hydrolysate, Whey Protein Concentrate
Whey protein concentrate is a dairy-derived protein containing 70-80% protein by weight, along with lactose and fat, and is extensively researched for supporting muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Numerous high-quality RCTs demonstrate efficacy for increasing lean muscle mass when combined with resistance training.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Whey Protein product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Protein Isolate - Chocolate | 96 A | $1.47 |
| 2 | Thorne Whey Protein Isolate - Vanilla | 96 A | $1.47 |
| 3 | NutraBio Clear Whey Protein Isolate Powder | 96 A | $2.15 |
| 4 | NutraBio Whey Protein Isolate Powder | 96 A | $2.50 |
| 5 | Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate | 95 A | $2.00 |
| 6 | Onnit Grass Fed Whey Isolate Protein - Vanilla (30 Serving Tub) | 89 A | $2.00 |
| 7 | Thorne RecoveryPro® | 85 A- | $3.67 |
| 8 | Sports Research Whey Protein, Dutch Chocolate | 83 A- | $2.21 |
| 9 | Momentous Recovery | 78 B+ | $3.67 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Whey Protein should I take?
The typical range is 20-40g per serving, as needed for protein goals. Daily as needed
When should I take Whey Protein?
Post-workout, between meals, any time. Either.
Which form of Whey Protein is best?
Concentrate — Budget-friendly. Other forms in the catalog: Isolate, Hydrolysate, Powder (concentrate).
Is Whey Protein safe?
Commonly reported: GI upset in lactose intolerant, Bloating. Serious warnings: Dairy allergy. Normal protein considerations
Which Whey Protein supplement scores highest?
Thorne Protein Isolate - Chocolate, at 96/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Daily target & upper limit
50 g / dayWhey Protein has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:
Whey Protein dosage reference →Primary uses
- Muscle building
- Recovery
- Protein intake
- Muscle protein synthesis
- Lean muscle mass gain
- Protein supplementation for strength training
- Weight management support
How it works
- Complete amino acid profile
- Fast digestion and absorption
- High leucine content
Dosage
- Typical range
- 20-40g per serving, as needed for protein goals
- Timing
- Post-workout, between meals, any time
- With food
- Either
- Duration
- Daily as needed
- Special populations
- Athletes, those needing more protein
Forms
- Concentrate
- Isolate
- Hydrolysate
- Powder (concentrate)· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset in lactose intolerant
- Bloating
Contraindications
- Milk allergy
Products containing Whey Protein
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Whey Protein on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Extensive research supporting muscle building
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Whey Protein compared head-to-head
Related in Performance
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.