Demineralized Whey Powder – Definition and Uses
Demineralized whey powder is a processed dairy by-product with a reduced mineral content. It is mainly used in infant and toddler formula to match the composition of breast milk.
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Demineralized whey powder is a processed dairy by-product with a reduced mineral content. It is mainly used in infant and toddler formula to match the composition of breast milk.
What is Demineralized Whey Powder?
Demineralized whey powder (also referred to as desalted or demineralised whey powder) is a dairy by-product derived from whey -- the liquid remaining after cheese or quark production. Through specialized processing, the majority of its mineral salts are removed before the liquid is dried into a fine, whitish powder. The result is a product rich in whey proteins and lactose, with a significantly reduced mineral content.
Production Process
Demineralization of whey is primarily achieved through two technical methods:
- Electrodialysis: Electrically charged mineral particles (ions) are driven out of the whey liquid using electric fields.
- Ion exchange: Specialized resins selectively bind mineral salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate, removing them from the whey.
These processes allow the mineral content to be reduced to 30%, 50%, or even 90% of its original level. The treated liquid is then spray-dried to produce the final powder. Depending on the degree of demineralization, the product is classified as whey powder 30%D, 50%D, or 90%D.
Nutritional Profile
Demineralized whey powder is characterized by the following properties:
- High content of whey proteins (mainly alpha-lactalbumin and beta-lactoglobulin)
- High proportion of lactose (milk sugar) as a readily available energy source
- Reduced levels of minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate
- Low fat content
- Well-balanced essential amino acid profile
Applications
Infant and Toddler Nutrition
The primary use of demineralized whey powder is in the production of infant and follow-on formula. Compared to human breast milk, cow's milk contains significantly higher levels of mineral salts, which can place a burden on the immature kidneys of newborns. By incorporating demineralized whey powder into infant formula, manufacturers can lower the overall mineral content and bring it closer to the composition of breast milk. At the same time, the whey-to-casein protein ratio is improved to better reflect that of human milk.
Food Industry
In food manufacturing, demineralized whey powder is used as an ingredient in a variety of products, including:
- Baked goods and confectionery
- Dairy and milk-based products
- Soups and sauces
- Dietary supplements and sports nutrition products
Clinical Nutrition
Due to its high-quality protein profile and reduced salt content, demineralized whey powder is also used in specialized dietary preparations and clinical nutrition formulas, for example for patients with impaired kidney function.
Advantages Over Standard Whey Powder
Compared to regular whey powder, the demineralized version offers several advantages:
- Better tolerability for sensitive individuals and infant kidneys
- Lower sodium intake, which can be relevant for individuals with high blood pressure
- Targeted adjustment to specific nutritional requirements
- Milder taste due to reduced salt content
Safety and Labeling
Demineralized whey powder is considered safe and is recognized by food authorities worldwide. In the European Union, it is subject to dairy product regulations and must comply with the strict requirements of EU Regulation No. 609/2013 when used in infant and toddler food. The product contains lactose and is therefore not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. People with a cow's milk allergy should also avoid demineralized whey powder.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Scientific Opinion on the essential composition of infant and follow-on formulae. EFSA Journal, 2014.
- Codex Alimentarius Commission (FAO/WHO): Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical Purposes Intended for Infants. CODEX STAN 72-1981, last amended 2019.
- Schaafsma, G.: The Protein Digestibility-Corrected Amino Acid Score. Journal of Nutrition, 2000; 130(7): 1865S-1867S.
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Related search terms: Demineralized Whey Powder + Desalted Whey Powder + Demineralised Whey Powder