CFM pipes from MWC Plant

Cross Flow Microfiltration (CFM)

Cross Flow Microfiltration is considered the gold standard approach to producing whey protein. 

Cross Flow Microfiltration is a non-chemical, gentle, low temperature microfiltration process that uses ceramic membranes to remove fat, lactose, aggregated denatured proteins, and any non-dissolved particulates.  The remaining proteins are 100% native in structure (completely undenatured) and contain ratios of individual proteins that are similar to the starting whey.  It produces a virtually fat free and low lactose product.

Glanbia was the first company in the world to use CFM to produce undenatured whey protein isolate, and we have earned a reputation as the preeminent leader in superior WPI production.

Whey proteins can also be made from a chemical process called Ion Exchange.  Our CFM process produces whey protein that is superior to Ion Exchange whey protein in many important ways:

  • Chemical free
  • Valuable bioactive components like Glycomacropeptide remain intact
  • Significantly more calcium and less sodium
  • Superior quality with an excellent amino acid profile
Cross Flow Microfiltration diagram

Glycomacropeptide (GMP) Protein

Provon WPI contains 20-22% GMP, an important protein shown to have numerous health benefits including promoting the feeling of satiety and supporting immunity.  Clinical studies have shown GMP has value biological properties:

  • May increase absorption of calcium, iron or zinc
  • Helps to promote lean muscle development
  • Controls intestinal health by preventing stomach disorders caused by bacteria and viruses
  • Has bacterial toxin binding effect
  • Suppresses appetite by stimulating the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that signal the brain of fullness

Comparison of WPI Peptides in Ion Exchange vs. Cross Flow Microfiltration

WPI Content (%)

ION Exchange (IE) Cross-flow Microfiltration (CFM) WPI Peptides
80 54 β-Lactoglobulin allergic component (much lower allergens)
14 21 α-Lactalbumin
3 1 Bovine serum albumin
3 2 Immunoglobulins (much higher beneficial GMP)
0 21 Glycomacropeptide (GMP) -> fast absorbing peptide (much higher beneficial GMP)

 

 

 

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