Micellar casein concentrate is a nutrient-dense substance produced through microfiltration of skim milk where lactose, water and some of the whey protein are filtered out.

Two of the most impressive benefits of this nutrient-dense substance are that it encourages the building of muscle while discouraging the breakdown and wasting of muscle tissue. Another benefit of this dairy protein is that it creates and sustains a feeling of satiety, helping keep hunger at bay.

Idaho Milk Products produces fresh, high-quality dairy ingredients, including  micellar casein, milk protein concentrate and isolate, cream and lactose and mineral rich milk permeate powder. Our micellar casein stands out in the industry making it a perfect ingredient for use in active nutrition products, ready-to-drink protein drinks, ready-to-mix protein powders, desserts and other specialized nutrition products.

Properties of Micellar Casein

Micellar casein and whey are the two components of milk protein, in the ratio of approximately  80% and 20%, respectively.

Micellar casein (MC) is composed of amino acids, including all those that are primarily responsible for the synthesis of protein in the muscles. Without these nutrients, muscle tissue cannot grow or repair itself. Even a small amount of essential amino acids can improve muscle protein synthesis.

By its nature, MC retains its natural structure, which makes it highly bioavailable (digestible by the human body).

As for flavor and texture, MC is prized for its light and clean, yet creamy, milky flavor and aroma. When used as an ingredient in active nutrition foods and drinks, MC is highly soluble with stable levels of both viscosity and suspension and exceptional emulsification properties.

Benefits of Micellar Casein

Elite athletes have long recognized the value of micellar casein in active nutrition.

This product takes longer to digest and as a result, it releases amino acids into the body more slowly than whey. It’s a powerhouse for helping to heal and repair the body, especially muscle tissue. Athletes choose products that contain this ingredient when they seek to improve endurance, increase strength and improve their metabolic rate.

Whereas whey protein absorbs quickly into the body, MC releases protein much more slowly – potentially for as long as 12 hours. The reason for this is once ingested, MC develops a fibrous gel structure in the stomach. This extends the process of the emptying of the stomach and provides an extended feeling of satiety.

MC is packed with nutrients including calcium,  and phosphates that are especially beneficial to muscles, bones and teeth. Casein is responsible for delivering mineral calcium and phosphate throughout the body facilitating the growth and stability of bones and teeth while helping the body retain correct pH levels and ensuring the stability of cell membranes.

Micellar Casein vs. Caseinates

Micellar casein is a product of the filtration process used to produce milk protein concentrates and milk protein isolates. Because this gentle membrane filtration process is a mechanical one rather than a chemical one, IdaPro® Micellar Casein is not denatured and retains superior flavor, solubility and hydration properties.

Caseinates are the result of chemical denaturing, typically using enzymes or acids. Casein derived in this manner is then treated with sodium hydroxide. Although they also have a high protein concentration, caseinates lack  the desirable, natural milky taste or solubility of MC. Using caseinates in nutritional products usually requires adding sweeteners or flavorings often resulting in products that may not have the most desirable level of stability.

You can learn more about the differences between MC and caseinates – and why micellar casein is often considered preferable — here.

Micellar Casein: With or Without the Whey

Whey protein is popular in active nutrition products, but MC provides a variety of advantages that whey does not.

Because whey is synthesized by the body so quickly, this ingredient is ideal for use in products designed for post-workout use, especially during the critical recovery period. MC, with its slow release of critical nutrients, is appropriate for consumption at breakfast, bedtime and any situation that involves short-term fasting.

Formulating active nutrition products, with both the quickly digested whey and the slowly digested MC provides valuable nutritional value.

Best Applications of IdaPro® Micellar Casein

Micellar casein is an exceptional ingredient in protein drinks, smoothies and shakes. It also lends itself well to creamy desserts like puddings and custards.

Many athletes prefer to consume MC at night, because it supplies protein to the muscles for several hours, making it ideal for overnight muscle recovery. MC can even help tamp down workout-related soreness the next day and  prevent cravings during the night and extreme hunger first thing in the morning.

Why Choose IdaPro® Micellar Casein?

IdaPro® Micellar casein from Idaho Milk Products is an exceptional quality product that is produced using gentle, low-heat methods of filtration. Our product retains the natural flavor and creamy quality of real milk. We capture the maximum possible levels of milk proteins to produce a highly nutritional powder that lends itself to a variety of applications.

To learn more about our micellar casein or to request a free sample, contact Idaho Milk Products today.