Is 70% Whey Protein Good? Your Guide to Concentrate

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

Whey protein concentrate, which typically contains a protein concentration of 70–80%, is the most common and cost-effective form of whey protein available. However, many wonder if this lower protein percentage is still effective for building muscle and meeting fitness goals.

Quick Summary

This article explores the effectiveness of 70% whey protein, detailing its benefits and drawbacks, and comparing it to higher-purity isolate options. It explains who benefits most from whey concentrate and factors to consider when choosing a protein powder.

Key Points

Effective for Most: 70% whey protein, a concentrate, is a high-quality, complete protein source suitable for most people seeking muscle growth and general fitness.
Cost-Effective Choice: Whey concentrate is less processed and therefore more affordable than isolate, providing excellent value for money.
Nutrient-Rich: Unlike more filtered isolates, concentrate retains more beneficial immune-boosting compounds like immunoglobulins.
Lactose and Fat: It contains small amounts of lactose and fat, which can cause digestive issues for individuals with lactose intolerance.
Ideal for Beginners: For those new to supplements or with no dietary restrictions, 70% whey concentrate is an ideal starting point.
Check Your Needs: Your final choice should depend on your budget, digestive tolerance, and specific fitness goals, but 70% WPC is a reliable option for most.

Understanding 70% Whey Protein

At its core, whey protein is a complete, high-quality protein derived from milk during the cheese-making process. It is a byproduct that contains all nine essential amino acids needed by the body. The '70%' refers to the protein concentration, a defining characteristic of whey protein concentrate (WPC). WPC is produced by filtering the liquid whey to remove some water, lactose, and fat, but less so than its more-processed counterpart, whey protein isolate (WPI). This less-intensive processing is why WPC retains some lactose and fats but also contains higher levels of beneficial bioactive compounds, like immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, which support immune health.

Benefits of 70% Whey Protein

For most individuals, 70% whey protein concentrate is a highly effective and excellent nutritional supplement with a range of health benefits.

Cost-Effective: Due to its less extensive processing, WPC is generally more affordable than WPI, offering great value for money, especially for those on a budget.
Rich in Nutrients: Because it retains more of the natural components of milk, WPC contains valuable compounds that support overall wellness, including immune function.
Supports Muscle Growth and Recovery: Like all forms of whey, WPC is rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are critical for stimulating muscle protein synthesis, repairing muscle tissue, and accelerating recovery after exercise.
Aids Weight Management: The high protein content of whey helps increase satiety, or the feeling of fullness, which can reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss goals.
Enhanced Flavor and Texture: The presence of small amounts of fat and lactose gives WPC a richer, creamier taste and texture, which many users find more palatable in shakes and smoothies.

Drawbacks and Considerations

While 70% whey protein is a great choice for many, it's important to be aware of its potential downsides, especially when compared to whey isolate.

Lactose Content: The primary drawback of WPC is its lactose content. For individuals with lactose intolerance, this can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and discomfort.
Slightly Higher Calories and Fat: Compared to whey isolate, which has most of the fat and carbs removed, WPC has a marginally higher calorie count per serving. While the difference is often negligible for overall diet, it may be a consideration for those on extremely strict low-calorie or fat-restricted diets.
Slower Absorption: While still a fast-digesting protein, WPC is not absorbed as rapidly as whey hydrolysate, which is pre-digested. For most fitness enthusiasts, this difference is insignificant, but competitive athletes may prefer the fastest possible nutrient delivery post-workout.

Who is 70% Whey Protein Best For?

Whey protein concentrate, including the common 70% variety, is ideal for a wide audience. It is an excellent starting point for beginners in fitness and a reliable staple for regular gym-goers. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to increase their daily protein intake in a cost-effective way without significant dietary restrictions. If you are not lactose intolerant and appreciate a creamier, richer shake, WPC is likely the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Comparison: 70% Whey Protein (Concentrate) vs. 90%+ Isolate


Feature	70% Whey Protein (Concentrate)	90%+ Whey Protein (Isolate)
Protein Content	70-80% by weight	90-95% by weight
Processing	Less processed, retains more nutrients	More processed, purified to remove fat and lactose
Lactose & Fat	Contains some lactose and fat	Minimal to no lactose and fat
Nutrients	Retains more beneficial compounds like immunoglobulins	Most beneficial compounds are stripped during filtration
Cost	More affordable	More expensive
Digestion	Absorbed quickly, but contains lactose	Faster absorption, minimal lactose
Best For	General fitness, budget-conscious users, muscle building	Lactose intolerance, strict low-carb/fat diets, rapid absorption needs

How to Choose the Right Whey Protein for Your Needs

Choosing the best protein powder comes down to your individual goals, dietary needs, and budget. Beyond just the percentage, several key factors should influence your decision.

Third-Party Testing: Reputable brands often have their products tested by third-party organizations like Informed-Sport or NSF Certified for Sport. These certifications verify product purity and ensure it is free of banned substances.
Ingredient Transparency: Look for products with a short, clean ingredient list. Avoid excessive fillers, artificial sweeteners, and proprietary blends that hide ingredient dosages.
Flavor and Mixability: Taste is a significant factor in sticking with a supplement. Reviews can offer insight into how well the powder mixes and its palatability.
Dietary Restrictions: If you are lactose intolerant, whey isolate is likely the best choice for you. For vegans or those with dairy allergies, a plant-based protein is necessary.
Goals and Budget: If you are a casual exerciser with a tighter budget, 70% whey concentrate is an excellent and affordable option. For serious athletes or those with specific dietary needs, the extra cost of isolate or hydrolysate may be justified.

Conclusion: So, Is 70% Whey Protein Good?

Yes, 70% whey protein, which is whey concentrate, is absolutely good and highly effective for most people. While it contains slightly more fat and lactose than whey isolate, it provides the same high-quality protein and essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and recovery. It’s a budget-friendly option that retains more natural, beneficial nutrients from milk. Unless you have lactose intolerance or are on a very strict, low-fat diet, 70% whey protein is a smart, economical, and nutritious choice to support your fitness and health goals. When choosing, simply ensure you pick a high-quality brand that aligns with your specific dietary needs.

Visit this page for more information about the components of whey protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for most people, 70% whey protein is just as effective for building muscle. Both are complete proteins containing all essential amino acids, including the BCAAs critical for muscle protein synthesis. The slight difference in protein concentration is not significant enough to impact results for the average fitness enthusiast.

Yes, 70% whey protein, which is a concentrate, contains some lactose. If you are lactose intolerant, you may experience bloating, gas, or other digestive discomfort. In that case, a whey protein isolate, which has had most of the lactose removed, would be a better choice.

Yes, 70% whey protein can be very beneficial for weight loss. Its high protein content promotes a feeling of fullness, which can reduce overall calorie intake. It also helps preserve lean muscle mass during a calorie-restricted diet.

The cost difference is primarily due to processing. 70% whey concentrate undergoes a less intensive filtration process than 90%+ whey isolate. The extra processing required to create a purer protein isolate increases manufacturing costs, which are passed on to the consumer.

Whey protein concentrate is often preferred for cooking and baking because its small fat and lactose content can contribute to better texture and moisture in recipes. Whey isolate, being lower in fat, can sometimes lead to a drier texture in baked goods.

Look for a reputable brand that provides third-party testing for purity, such as NSF Certified for Sport or Informed-Sport. Check the ingredient list for minimal additives and sweeteners. Reviews on taste and mixability can also be helpful.

Yes, 70% whey protein can be safely combined with most other supplements, including creatine, BCAAs, and glutamine. The combination is a common practice for maximizing performance and recovery.