FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
What is whey permeate?
Whey permeate is the liquid portion of whey that remains after the removal of proteins and fats during the filtration process. It is a byproduct of cheese production or dairy processing and contains primarily lactose (milk sugar) and minerals (such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium).
How is whey permeate (VersiLac®) produced?
To produce whey permeate, the whey undergoes a filtration process, most commonly ultrafiltration (UF), which uses semi-permeable membranes to separate smaller components (like lactose, minerals, and water) from larger molecules (like proteins and fats).
-
Whey Permeate Production Steps:
-
Milk Separation and Cheese Making:
-
Milk Preparation: Milk is first pasteurized and sometimes standardized to control fat content.
-
Coagulation: An enzyme is added to the milk to coagulate the proteins and form curds, while the liquid portion, called whey, is separated.
-
Curd Processing: The curds are cut, heated, and pressed to form cheese. The remaining liquid (whey) contains water, lactose, soluble proteins, and minerals.
-
-
Ultrafiltration:
-
Membrane Filtration: To produce whey permeate, the whey undergoes a filtration process, most commonly ultrafiltration (UF), which uses semi-permeable membranes to separate smaller components (like lactose, minerals, and water) from larger molecules (like proteins and fats).
-
Separation of Permeate and Retentate: The permeate (the filtered liquid) is rich in lactose, minerals, and water.
-
-
Concentration, Crystallization and Drying:
-
Concentration: The permeate is then concentrated and crystalized by evaporating the water content to increase its solids content, particularly the lactose and minerals.
-
Drying: The concentrated permeate is spray-dried to create a powder form of whey permeate, which is easier to store and transport.
-
What are the nutritional benefits of VersiLac®?
-
Lactose (Milk Sugar)
-
Energy Source: Lactose is a carbohydrate that provides a moderate source of energy. It's a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products.
-
Digestibility: For people who are not lactose intolerant, it can provide a quick source of glucose and galactose, which are used by the body for energy. However, for those with lactose intolerance, consumption may cause digestive issues.
Whey permeate contains various minerals that are beneficial for health, including:
-
Calcium
-
Magnesium
-
Potassium
-
Phosphorus
-
Sodium
What is the shelf life of VersiLac®?
Shelf life is 12 months from date of manufacture. Shelf life will be enhanced through ideal storage conditions which include temperatures below 25ºC, relative humidity below 65%, and odor free environment.
PRODUCT APPLICATIONS
How can VersiLac® be used in food products?
What are the applications of whey permeate (Proliant 1000) in animal feed?
Proliant Dairy Ingredients has over 30 years of industry experience and operates two state-of-the-art plants in the United States dedicated to producing the highest quality whey permeate powder.
Together with its sister company, APC, they offer innovative solutions to address customers' formulation challenges, backed by decades of research and technical support, ensuring the highest quality ingredients and unmatched service. Learn more about Proliant® 1000
SUBSTITUTIONS & FORMULATION GUIDANCE
What other dairy ingredients can I replace with VersiLac®?
-
Whey powder
-
Non-Fat dry milk
-
Lactose
-
Whole milk powder
When should I use VersiLac®
VersiLac® is an ideal dairy ingredient to reduce cost in different formulations. It is so versatile that allows you to replace other more expensive dairy ingredients while maintaining the quality and flavor.
Our team of technical experts is always available to share insights and guidance on how to use VersiLac®.
Do you offer custom formulations?
Yes, we do! You're welcome to visit and collaborate with us on formulating in our kitchen. To schedule a visit, please reach out to our Sales Representative.
STORAGE & HANDLING
What are the storage requirements for VersiLac®?
Recommended storage conditions include temperatures below 25ºC, relative humidity below 65%, and an odor free environment.
What are the packaging sizes?
-
Bags 25kg (55.1 Lb)
-
Totes: 1000kg (2,204.6 Lb)
-
What are your minimum order quantities?
-
1 pallet or 1000 kg (2,204.6 Lb)
-
PRODUCT COMPARISON & QUALITY
How does VersiLac® compare to other whey products?
Use in Food Products:
-
Whey Permeate: Used primarily for its carbohydrate (lactose) content, flavor enhancement, and moisture retention. It’s often used in low-protein applications, baked goods, dairy products, and animal feed.
-
Whey Protein Concentrate/WPI: Used in protein supplements, nutrition bars, smoothies, and other high-protein foods. It’s ideal for muscle recovery, protein fortification, and functional foods.
Can you provide certifications or quality assurance for your product?
Yes, we can provide the necessary certifications and quality assurance for our products. Please let us know which specific certifications or documentation you require, and we’ll be happy to provide them. Contact us
-
Certifications:
-
Kosher
-
Halal
-
GMO Free
-
Gluten Free
-
SQF
-
SUSTAINABILITY & SOURCING
How do you ensure the sustainability of your whey permeate?
Our whey permeate is sourced from responsibly managed dairy operations, and we utilize energy-efficient production methods to minimize our environmental impact. Additionally, we focus on reducing waste by utilizing byproducts like whey permeate in animal feed and other applications, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and sustainably.
PRICING & ORDERING
What is the pricing for VersiLac®?
Our sales team would be happy to assist you with more information on the pricing for whey permeate. Please contact us, and we look forward to speaking with you soon.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
How can I contact technical experts for guidance on using VersiLac®?
You can easily reach out to our team of technical experts for personalized guidance on using VersiLac® in your formulations. Our experts are available to assist with product recommendations, formulation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact us
LABELING
What are the US Labeling options?
-
Dairy Product Solids
-
Modified Whey
-
Reduced Protein Whey
-
Whey Solids