Proteins and Minerals in Whey Protein Supplements

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Sports nutrition supplements, particularly whey protein, are widely used.
• These supplements contribute to dietary intake of minerals, including potentially toxic elements.
• Current labeling often omits detailed mineral content, focusing primarily on protein percentage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the protein and mineral content of whey protein supplements available in the European market.
• To compare declared protein percentages with actual content.
• To assess the levels of various minerals, including potentially toxic elements, in these supplements.

Main Methods:

• Protein content was determined using the Kjeldahl method.
• Mineral analysis (Ca, Mg, K, Na, Ba, B, Co, Cu, Cr, Sr, Fe, Li, Mn, Mo, Ni, V, Zn, Al) was performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES).
• Supplement samples were representative of the European market.

Main Results:

• A significant discrepancy was found between declared and actual protein percentages, with an average of 70.9% (ranging from 18-92.3%).
• Potassium (K) and Calcium (Ca) were the most abundant minerals.
• Low levels of Cobalt (Co) and Vanadium (V) were detected.

Conclusions:

• Whey protein supplements exhibit a high degree of non-compliance with labeling claims.
• The quality and safety of these products require enhanced monitoring and regulation.
• Further assessment of consumer intake contributions is necessary.