What Products Naturally Contain Whey?

Whey is naturally found in animals, such as cows, sheep and goats, but is only a byproduct when their milk is curdled or when making cheese. Whey can taste differently, sweet or sour, depending on the types of cheese the whey is a byproduct of. For example, cheddar or Swiss produce sweet whey and cottage cheese produces acidic whey. Whey is also used in food processing, such as in the production of breads, pastries and crackers.

Whey Protein

• Whey contains protein. Whey protein is also commonly used to refer to a dietary supplement widely used in weightlifting and bodybuilding sports. Drinking whey protein directly after a workout repairs muscles faster and increases muscle mass.

Cow's Milk

• When you curdle milk, the whey liquid that is left over contains a variety of whey proteins. These constitute about 20 percent of the protein in milk. The main protein is beta-lactoglobulin, which serves to transport other molecules around the body, particularly molecules that do not easily transport through water-rich areas. These are called hydrophobic molecules.

Sheep's Milk

• Sheep's milk, also called ewe's milk, is not widely consumed in its natural state in many cultures around the world. It does contain whey proteins that aid in similar processes as cow whey. Its milk is mainly used to culture and process other dairy products, such as feta cheese. Sheep produce less milk by volume than cows, but this milk tends to contain more fats and minerals. This makes it more ideal for cheese than milk.

Goat's Milk

• Goat's milk also contains whey. It is produced for consumption as milk and cheese in about 2 percent of the population. Goat milk and meat is mainly consumed in Africa and Asia. The milk produced is creamy and does not naturally separate. This makes it ideal for cheese. Goat milk is about 20 percent whey.