Collection: Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC)
Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC)
Shop whey protein concentrate at Elite Supps. WPC is the original, best-value whey - around 70 to 80% protein with a balanced amount of fats and carbs, and the creamy taste many people prefer. It is a brilliant all-rounder for building muscle, supporting recovery and topping up your protein without stretching the budget. Every member of our team is a certified nutritionist, so you can choose with confidence.
What Is Whey Protein Concentrate?
Concentrate is whey from cheese-making that has been filtered and dried, but less aggressively than isolate - so it keeps around 70 to 80% protein along with a little of the natural fats, carbs and beneficial milk fractions. That is what gives WPC its creamier taste and lower price. It is a complete, high-quality protein with all nine essential amino acids (13), and the everyday choice for most people topping up their protein.
WPC vs WPI vs Hydrolysed
The differences come down to filtering, price and how lean you need it:
- WPC (concentrate) - around 70 to 80% protein, creamier and best value, with a little more fat and carbs. The everyday all-rounder.
- WPI (isolate) - around 90% protein, leaner and lower in carbs and lactose, at a higher price. Best for cutting or lactose sensitivity.
- Hydrolysed - pre-digested for the fastest absorption, a premium recovery option.
Here is the reassuring part: meta-analyses find concentrate, isolate and hydrolysate deliver similar body-composition results (7) - so for everyday muscle-building, the more affordable concentrate is a smart pick. Choose isolate only if you specifically want the leanest, lowest-lactose option, or pick a blend for the best of both.
Benefits of Whey Protein Concentrate
- Builds and repairs muscle - a complete protein that supports muscle protein synthesis and recovery after resistance training (2, 9), and gains in muscle mass and strength alongside training (1).
- Great value - the most cost-effective whey, so it is easy to hit your protein target without overspending.
- Supports weight management - protein is filling, and a higher-protein intake supports satiety and appetite control when you are managing your weight (5), which is why higher-protein meal plans are popular for body composition (6, 8) and weight management (12).
- Creamy and versatile - tastes great and bakes and blends beautifully into smoothies, oats and protein treats.
Is Whey Concentrate Good for You, and Is It Safe?
For healthy, active people, whey concentrate is a safe, well-studied way to top up protein (15). Active people generally need more protein than sedentary people to support training (10), and WPC is a simple, affordable way to get there. The common concern about protein and the kidneys applies to people who already have kidney disease, not healthy individuals - if you have a kidney condition or other medical issue, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication, check with your GP first. WPC works best alongside a balanced diet, not instead of whole foods.
How Much WPC, and When
Aim for around 1.6 to 2.2 grams of total protein per kilogram of body weight a day from all sources (15); a WPC serve usually gives 20 to 25g of protein. Its fast digestion makes it a practical post-workout choice (14), but the evidence shows total daily protein matters more than exact timing (11) - so have it whenever helps you hit your target. Mix one scoop with water or milk.
Who It's For
WPC suits anyone wanting an effective, affordable daily protein - from beginners to seasoned lifters - who does not need the extra-lean profile of isolate. It is great for building muscle, baking and everyday protein top-ups, and works just as well for women as for men (see our protein for women range). If you are cutting hard and watching every calorie, a lean isolate is worth the extra; if you avoid dairy, choose a plant-based protein.
Why Buy from Elite Supps
- Every member of our team, online and in all our stores, is a certified nutritionist, so expert advice is always free.
- One of the widest ranges of whey concentrate in Australia.
- More than 140 stores nationwide, plus fast online delivery and same-day dispatch.
- Family-owned, with competitive prices and regular deals.
- Flat-rate shipping Australia-wide, and free delivery on orders over $150.
- A 30-day money-back guarantee on your order.
Explore More
Compare whey isolate, hydrolysed whey and blends, see the full whey protein range, or our top 10 protein powders. Our certified nutritionists can help. References for the research cited above are listed below.
FAQ
Concentrate is whey filtered less than isolate, so it keeps around 70 to 80% protein along with a little natural fat and carbs. That gives it a creamier taste and a lower price - the everyday, best-value whey.
For building muscle they perform similarly when your total protein is on point. WPC is creamier and better value; WPI is leaner and lower in carbs and lactose. Choose isolate for cutting or lactose sensitivity, concentrate for everyday value.
Yes - WPC is a complete, fast-digesting protein with all the essential amino acids, which supports muscle protein synthesis and recovery alongside resistance training.
Concentrate is filtered less than isolate, so it takes less processing and keeps a slightly lower protein percentage. You pay less and still get an effective, high-quality protein.
Whey concentrate is well studied and well tolerated by healthy adults at sensible intakes. Concerns about protein and the kidneys apply to people who already have kidney disease - if that is you, or you have another medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication, talk to your doctor first.
Aim for around 1.6 to 2.2g of total protein per kilo of body weight a day from food and shakes combined. A WPC serve usually gives 20 to 25g, so one or two serves is a common way to top up.
The recommended amount of protein you should consume each day depends on your age, gender, and activity level. The Australian government recommends that adult males consume 0.84g per kilogram of body weight and adult females consume 0.75g per kilogram of body weight.
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you may need more protein. Athletes and people who exercise regularly also often require more protein than sedentary individuals. (10)
To get the most out of WPC, consume it alongside regular exercise and a balanced diet. If you're looking to build muscle, take whey protein before and after your workouts. And if you're trying to lose weight, drink a shake for breakfast or as a snack between meals. You can also add whey powder to pancakes, muffins, and other recipes to increase your daily protein intake.
You can drink a whey protein concentrate shake at any time of the day to help regulate your appetite and meet your daily protein goal.
However, if you're trying to build muscle or have optimal recovery, it's best to consume whey concentrate protein within one hour of finishing your workout. This can help repair and rebuild your muscles after exercise and ensure you get the maximum benefit from the protein. (11)
Whey is naturally gluten-free. However, some whey protein products may contain traces of gluten if they are manufactured in a facility that also processes gluten-containing foods.
If you're sensitive to gluten or have coeliac disease, it's important to check the label of your whey protein powder to make sure it doesn't contain any traces of gluten.
WPC is made from milk and contains lactose. If you're lactose-intolerant, it's best to choose a whey protein isolate instead of WPC. Whey isolate is a purer form of whey protein that contains less lactose than whey concentrate.
Alternatively, you could opt for a vegan protein powder that uses plant-based ingredients.
In its basic form, concentrate protein powder doesn't taste like much (it's similar to watered-down milk). However, whey protein powders come in a variety of delicious flavours, including chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. You can also add whey powder to smoothies and other recipes to change up the flavour.
The shelf life of whey protein concentrate varies depending on the manufacturer. However, most WPC powders will last for 9 to 19 months after opening, as long as they are stored in a cool, dry place.
Whey protein should be safe for kids to consume if they need a protein supplement. However, you should always consult your doctor before giving WPC to a child.
Most whey protein concentrates are designed for the nutritional needs of adults. However, some brands have now created protein products specifically for kids, such as the Obvi Kids Complete Protein, which we sell at Elite Supplements.
Protein shakes make a great meal replacement if you're looking to lose weight. They're high in protein and low in calories, making them a good option for people who are trying to slim down. (12)
You can also drink a whey protein shake as a snack between meals if you're feeling hungry. If you're trying to increase your calorie intake or want to boost the nutritional content of your shake, you can add fresh or frozen fruit, yoghurt, nuts, and seeds.
It's important to do your research and find a whey protein powder that matches your dietary needs and flavour preferences.
At Elite Supplements, we offer a wide variety of brands and flavours so you can find the perfect WPC whey protein for you. Some of our best-selling brands include BioTechUSA's 100% Whey, Max's Anabolic Night Slow-Release Protein, ON Whey Concentrate, and Nitrovol Lean Muscle Recovery Protein.
For some people, protein powder may be easier to digest than meat. This is because protein powder is a concentrated source of protein and doesn't contain the tough fibres found in meat that can be difficult to digest. (13, 14).
However, some people do find protein powder can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. If you have trouble digesting protein powder, try a different brand or consider opting for a plant-based protein powder instead.
Elite Supplements stocks several popular brands of whey concentrate powder, including Emerald Labs, BioTechUSA, EHP Labs, and more. As Australia's favourite fitness supplements store, we offer a wide range of protein products to suit your individual needs. You can shop online or in-store at one of our convenient locations across Australia.
References
1. Cintineo, H. P., Arent, M. A., Antonio, J., & Arent, S. M. (2018). Effects of Protein Supplementation on Performance and Recovery in Resistance and Endurance Training. Frontiers in nutrition, 5, 83. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2018.00083
2. McGlory, C., Devries, M. C., & Phillips, S. M. (2017). Skeletal muscle and resistance exercise training; the role of protein synthesis in recovery and remodeling. Journal of applied physiology, 122(3), 541-548. https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.00613.2016
5. Leidy, H. J., Tang, M., Armstrong, C. L., Martin, C. B., & Campbell, W. W. (2011). The effects of consuming frequent, higher protein meals on appetite and satiety during weight loss in overweight/obese men. Obesity, 19(4), 818-824. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2010.203
6. Helms, E. R., Aragon, A. A., & Fitschen, P. J. (2014). Evidence-based recommendations for natural bodybuilding contest preparation: nutrition and supplementation. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 11, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-11-20
7. Castro, L. H., et al (2019). Comparative Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Concentrated, Hydrolyzed, and Isolated Whey Protein Supplementation on Body Composition of Physical Activity Practitioners. Nutrients, 11(9), 2047. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11092047
8. Graf, S., Egert, S., & Heer, M. (2011). Effects of whey protein supplements on metabolism: evidence from human intervention studies. Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care, 14(6), 569-580. https://doi.org/10.1097/MCO.0b013e32834b89da
9. Park, Y., et al (2019). Effects of whey protein supplementation prior to, and following, resistance exercise on body composition and training responses: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. Journal of exercise nutrition & biochemistry, 23(2), 34-44. https://doi.org/10.20463/jenb.2019.0015
10. Lemon P. W. (1995). Do athletes need more dietary protein and amino acids? International journal of sport nutrition, 5 Suppl, S39-S61. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsn.5.s1.s39
11. Aragon, A. A., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2013). Nutrient timing revisited: is there a post-exercise anabolic window? Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-10-5
12. Davis, L. M., et al (2010). Efficacy of a meal replacement diet plan compared to a food-based diet plan after a period of weight loss and weight maintenance: a randomized controlled trial. Nutrition journal, 9, 11. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-9-11
13. Hoffman, J. R., & Falvo, M. J. (2004). Protein - Which is Best? Journal of sports science & medicine, 3(3), 118-130. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3905294/
14. Bax, M. L., et al (2013). Effects of meat cooking, and of ingested amount, on protein digestion speed and entry of residual proteins into the colon: a study in minipigs. PloS one, 8(4), e61252. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0061252
15. Jager, R., et al (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8



