Foods High in Whey

Whey is the by-product of cheese production and can be used to create and supplement other foods. The milk is curdled with an acid or rennet and strained to remove the solid curds from the liquid whey. Whey can be used in this form or the proteins can be extracted for use. The proteins are used in food products as whey protein isolate or as whey protein concentrate, in which the lactose is removed to concentrate the proteins. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Cheese

Cheese makers have an abundance of whey on hand from the first production of cheese, so some of them make cheeses directly from the whey. Ricotta is the most widely distributed cheese made from whey. Brown cheese is also made from whey and is particularly common in Norway and Greece. The simplest brown cheese is formed when the water evaporates off the whey and it is molded into a cheese shape. Additives, different types of whey and different moisture content create various types of brown cheese.

Whey Butter

Whey butter is not well known in the United States, but plenty of artisan cheese makers carry it, and it is common in some other countries, such as Sweden. Whey butter is stronger and tastes cheesier than traditional butter. It may also be saltier and have other subtle flavors depending on how it was made.

Protein Bars

Many protein bars are high in whey as whey protein isolate becomes a common additive in foods marketed toward athletes and bodybuilders. Whey protein isolate is an easily digestible and fat-free source of protein, so it aids in weight loss, muscle development and energy generation.

Beverages

Whey is an easy means of adding protein to any drink without the added fat. Whey can be found in infant formula and protein or weight loss shakes. It is also found in Bailey's Original Irish Cream to add to the creamy taste and texture. Mixing whey and wine makes whey wine, a surprisingly noncreamy wine high in whey.

Milk

Milk is only naturally occurring source of whey. However, the Whey Protein Institute states that milk is only 1 percent whey protein.

Other Foods

Plenty of processed foods use whey as an additive or flavor enhancer. Certain breads are high in whey. Pastry mixes, candy bars, and non-fat ice creams are particularly known for having whey. Fast food meals, particularly the ones with cheese, tend to have whey added. Check the labels to know if a given product contains whey.