Protein powders have long been used by bodybuilders wanting to maximise the size of their muscles, but have been adopted more recently by a far wider mainstream audience interested in improving their overall health, wellbeing and performance by increasing their protein intake.

Whilst protein powders made from dairy sources, such as whey and casein, and those from vegan sources, such as soy, have long dominated the high-protein sports nutrition supplement market, many other types of powdered protein are increasingly available from trusted brands, such as Applied Nutrition and Bulk Powders.

Of these relatively new options, beef protein powder raises the most eyebrows and generates more questions about what it is, how it’s made and whether it tastes of anything like a juicy fillet stake. To help you make the best supplement choices to achieve your physique and performance goals, here are the answers to these questions, and more, about beef protein powder.

What is beef protein powder?

Beef protein powder is a dietary supplement made from beef that provides a concentrated source of protein. Unlike traditional protein powders made from whey, casein or soy, which are extracted from dairy or plants, beef protein is produced by isolating the protein content from beef.

This process involves hydrolysing beef into its amino acids, which are then dried into a powder form. The resulting product is rich in essential amino acids, making it an excellent option for muscle repair and growth. Beef protein powder offers a high bioavailability, meaning the body can easily absorb and utilise the protein it provides, according to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology.

What is beef protein isolate?

It is a highly purified form of beef protein powder. The isolation process removes most of the fats and carbohydrates, resulting in a product that is typically over 90% pure protein. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to increase their protein intake without additional calories from fats or carbs.

The purification process also ensures that beef protein isolate is free from common allergens found in other protein sources, such as lactose and gluten. Protein isolates, including beef, provide a complete amino acid profile essential for muscle recovery and growth, making them a preferred choice for athletes and bodybuilders, according to research published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine.

Is beef protein powder really made from beef?

Yes, it is indeed made from beef. The manufacturing process involves using beef by-products, such as collagen and gelatin, which are hydrolysed to break down the proteins into their constituent amino acids. These amino acids are then purified and dried to form the final powder. This method ensures that the protein retains its nutritional integrity while eliminating unnecessary fats and carbohydrates.

Does protein powder from beef taste like steak or burgers?

No, it’s doesn’t! During the hydrolysation and purification processes, most of the flavour compounds are removed, resulting in a neutral-tasting product. Manufacturers often add natural flavours and sweeteners to make the powder more palatable.

How is beef protein powder made?

It’s made through a multi-step process designed to extract and concentrate the protein from beef while removing fats and carbohydrates. Here’s a detailed look at the process:

1. Source Selection: High-quality beef by-products such as collagen and gelatin are chosen as the primary source material.
2. Hydrolysis: The beef is subjected to hydrolysis, a process that breaks down the proteins into their constituent amino acids using water, heat, and enzymes. This step makes the protein more digestible and bioavailable.
3. Filtration and Purification: The hydrolysed protein mixture is then filtered to remove impurities, fats and carbohydrates. Advanced filtration techniques, such as microfiltration and ultrafiltration, are often used to achieve high purity levels.
4. Drying: The purified protein is then dried using spray drying or freeze drying methods to convert it into a fine powder. This step ensures the powder has a long shelf life and is easy to mix into liquids.
5. Flavouring and Additives: To improve taste and palatability, natural flavours and sweeteners may be added. This step is crucial since the hydrolysis process can leave the protein with a neutral or slightly off-putting taste.
6. Packaging: Finally, the protein powder is packaged into containers, ready for distribution. Packaging is done in a way that preserves the product’s freshness and prevents contamination.

This process ensures that the final product is a high-quality, easily digestible protein powder rich in essential amino acids, making it a valuable supplement for muscle growth and recovery.

What’s so special about protein powder made from beef?

It’s popular amongst bodybuilders and other fitness enthusiasts for its unique nutritional profile and digestibility. It is a rich source of essential amino acids, including a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle growth and recovery. Unlike whey protein, protein powder from beef is free from lactose, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Additionally, it is naturally rich in collagen, which supports joint health, skin elasticity, and overall recovery from exercise. And it enhances muscle synthesis just as effectively as whey protein, according to the British Journal of Nutrition, making it a viable alternative for those looking to diversify their protein sources.

Is beef better than other protein powders?

Whether protein powder from beef is better than other types depends on individual dietary needs and preferences. For those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, it offers a suitable alternative to whey. Its high collagen content provides additional benefits for joint and skin health, which are not typically found in plant-based proteins. However, whey protein has a faster absorption rate, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. Plant-based proteins, on the other hand, are preferred by those following vegan or vegetarian diets.

Is beef more expensive than other protein powders?

The cost can vary, but it is generally comparable to other high-quality protein powders. Factors influencing price include the source of the beef, the purity of the protein, and the manufacturing process. High-quality isolates tend to be more expensive due to the extensive processing required to achieve a high protein concentration. However, when considering the added benefits of collagen and the absence of common allergens, many find the cost justified.

Is protein powder from beef healthy?

It is considered a healthy supplement, particularly for those looking to increase their protein intake without additional fats or carbohydrates. It provides a complete amino acid profile essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body maintenance. Additionally, the collagen content supports joint health and skin elasticity. Protein supplements from beef can improve muscle mass and strength when combined with resistance training, according to a study in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition. However, it is important to choose a high-quality product free from artificial additives and fillers to maximise health benefits.

Where can I buy beef protein powder?

It’s available from a variety of retailers, both online and in physical stores. Major online platforms like Amazon, bodybuilding.com, and the official websites of supplement brands offer a wide selection. Health and nutrition stores such as Holland & Barrett also carry high-protein beef-derived supplements, as do some bodybuilding gyms and specialist health food stores. When purchasing, it is advisable to check for third-party testing and quality certifications, such as Informed Sport, to ensure the product’s purity and effectiveness.