Does the Protein Concentration of Different Types of Dietary Supplements for Athletes Vary According to Protein Particle Length?

Abstract

Introduction: Protein microparticles are crucial for their sensory properties and applicability in food production. This study has the objective of correlating protein particle length and content in different sources of protein supplements.Methods: An analytical observational study with protein supplements (n=30) from different sources was carried out to estimate the protein content and the particle length in the samples. Protein content data was obtained via total nitrogen content. The samples were also analyzed for protein particle lengths using the scanning electron microscope.Results: The comparison between the average particle length of each group of protein supplements analyzed has shown significant statistical difference (F=139.6; p<0.001). Whey Protein Isolate showed higher particle length, compared to other supplements (57.7±42.1 µm; p<0.001). However, no evidence of a significant difference in protein concentrations among supplements was detected (F=1.072; p=0.4004). In addition, no evidence of a significant correlation between protein concentration and particle length was observed (R2=0.001; p=0.8476).Conclusions: Although a difference in the protein particle length of different supplements for athletes was found, there is no correlation between protein concentration and particle length in the studied protein supplements from different sources Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Blend Whey Protein, Veggies, Beef and Albumin.