Microparticulated whey protein
Microparticulated whey protein suppliers and sourcing guide
Microparticulated whey protein is whey protein concentrate that has been heated under high shear so the protein forms very small, round particles. The particles give a smooth, creamy texture similar to fat. It is sold as a powder or a liquid concentrate for yogurt, cheese, frozen desserts, sauces and high-protein drinks. FDA's GRAS regulation covers microparticulated protein made from milk protein, egg white or both.
- Category
- Gums, emulsifiers and thickeners
- Also known as
- Microparticulated protein product · MWP · Microparticulated milk protein
- Facts checked
- November 2026
Forms and grades of microparticulated whey protein
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Powder
Spray-dried microparticulated whey protein concentrate at a stated protein content.
Liquid concentrate
Wet microparticulated protein supplied chilled to dairy plants.
Heat-stable grades
Grades designed to stay smooth in heat-treated high-protein drinks and yogurts.
Organic or grass-fed milk grades
Made from milk sources with those certifications, offered by fewer suppliers.
What to check on the COA
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
- Protein
- Protein by Kjeldahl or Dumas nitrogen times 6.38.
- Particle size
- Particle size distribution by laser diffraction, the property that defines the texture.
- Moisture, fat, lactose and ash
- Proximate analysis for powders.
- Microbiology
- Total plate count, coliforms, yeast and mold, Salmonella, Listeria and Cronobacter where required.
- Heavy metals
- Lead and other metals against the supplier's specification.
Storage, lots and expiry
Storage and shelf life
Keep powder sealed in a cool, dry place away from odors, since milk powders pick up moisture and flavors. Liquid concentrates must be kept refrigerated and used within the supplier's stated period. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with retest of moisture and microbiology for older powder.
Lots and expiry dates
Particle size and protein content can vary by lot and change texture, so record both from each COA. Keep allergen (milk, and egg if blended) information on the lot record.
Regulatory status
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
21 CFR 184.1498 affirms microparticulated protein product, prepared from egg whites or milk protein or both by high-shear heat processing, as GRAS for use as a thickener or texturizer in food.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)21 CFR 184.1498 requires the ingredient statement to name the protein source, for example "microparticulated egg white protein", followed by its component ingredients in descending order.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)
This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Microparticulated whey protein suppliers
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
We are checking microparticulated whey protein suppliers now
Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.
Sell microparticulated whey protein? Request a listingFrequently asked questions
What forms of microparticulated whey protein can brands buy?
Common forms include powder, liquid concentrate, heat-stable grades and organic or grass-fed milk grades. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
What should the COA for microparticulated whey protein include?
Expect protein, particle size, moisture, fat, lactose and ash, microbiology and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
How should microparticulated whey protein be stored?
Keep powder sealed in a cool, dry place away from odors, since milk powders pick up moisture and flavors. Liquid concentrates must be kept refrigerated and used within the supplier's stated period. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with retest of moisture and microbiology for older powder.
What is the regulatory status of microparticulated whey protein?
21 CFR 184.1498 affirms microparticulated protein product, prepared from egg whites or milk protein or both by high-shear heat processing, as GRAS for use as a thickener or texturizer in food. 21 CFR 184.1498 requires the ingredient statement to name the protein source, for example "microparticulated egg white protein", followed by its component ingredients in descending order.
More gums, emulsifiers and thickeners
- Xanthan gumE415 · xanthan
- Guar gumCyamopsis tetragonoloba · E412
- Gum arabicacacia gum · gum acacia
- Locust bean gumcarob bean gum · carob gum
- Gellan gumE418 · high-acyl gellan
- CarrageenanE407 · Irish moss extract
- Agaragar-agar · E406
- Sodium alginateE401 · algin
- Propylene glycol alginatePGA · E405
- PectinE440 · citrus pectin
- Gelatingelatine · Type A gelatin
- Cellulose gum (CMC)sodium carboxymethylcellulose · carboxymethylcellulose
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