What Is Calcium Caseinate And What Is It Used For?

Calcium caseinate is a compound derived from lactic protein. Do you know its properties? Do you know what it is for? We will tell you about it in this article.

You may have already heard of calcium caseinate, a substance derived from the protein in dairy products. But do you know what it is and what it is for? Find out more about it in this article.

Calcium caseinate is a compound which comes more precisely from casein and has great biological value. Its use is popular as a nutritional supplement in sports, especially in sports that stimulate muscle synthesis.

What is calcium caseinate?

Calcium caseinate, also known as calcium caseinate,  is a salt made from the extraction of the predominant protein in milk.

In general,  this process is carried out by adding specific enzymes or through substances such as vinegar and lemon juice,  which are able to decrease the acidity of dairy products. This therefore results in the coagulation or precipitation of casein and the formation of rennet.

It is therefore from the treatment of this precipitate with calcium hydroxide that this salt is obtained.

Properties of calcium caseinate

Calcium caseinate contains approximately 90% of its weight in protein. In addition, it contains all the essential amino acids, which gives it great biological value and nutritional qualities.

In addition, it has a considerable supply of calcium, has less than 1% fat, contains limited amounts of phosphorus and sulfur, and contains almost no lactose.

Caseinates, in general, are products resistant to heating, and even more so than most proteins. They also have the ability to interact with water and fat, making them powerful emulsifiers. 

These characteristics explain why these salts are used as food additives in various edible products.

Uses of calcium caseinate

The best known use of this compound is as a sports supplement because casein, which is of protein origin, has an anti-catabolic effect, which means that it prevents the breakdown of muscle.

When ingested, it is absorbed slowly, and as the body digests this substance, amino acid metabolism kicks in, along with protein synthesis. Its consumption therefore generates a significant satiating effect.

Intake of serum protein and caseinates has been determined in various studies to be helpful in achieving satiety in obese people and also in meeting protein requirements in hospitalized patients who require greater intakes.

Since it is a dietary supplement,  it is useful for individuals who perform strength training, intense workouts, or seeking muscle definition. In general, it is recommended to consume it before going to bed or after training.

However, it is not advisable to take it without consulting a professional because its consumption must accompany the diet and, in itself, it will not produce any effect, especially if the protein recommendation is not respected.

Uses in the food industry

Caseinates are used in food products, like other additives and preservatives. The purpose of this salt is to lengthen the shelf life of foods,  to provide them with nutritional value and to modify the textures. So, some of the products that contain them are as follows:

• Ice cream.
• Biscuits.
• Soft bread.
• Instant soups.
• Creams for coffee.
• Cereals for breakfast.
• Bakery and pastry products.

Calcium intake

Being composed of calcium and having a minimum intake of lactose, its use allows this mineral to be administered to people who are intolerant to milk sugar but who are able to digest this substance without problems. In this way,  it prevents decalcification and contributes to the strengthening of bones and teeth.

Who shouldn’t eat it?

Different studies have suggested that  casein has a significant inflammatory potential, which means that some individuals may be allergic to it  (or to its derivatives).

Casein allergy

More specifically,  the body of allergic patients identifies this protein as a foreign compound  and releases histamine in order to neutralize it. As a result, reactions like diarrhea, throat irritation, nasal congestion, burning eyes, among others are seen.

Vegan

This substance comes from cow’s milk, so  it is not suitable for people who follow a vegan diet or do not consume dairy products. They must therefore ensure that the products they consume, such as coffee, instant soups or cookies do not contain it.

Calcium caseinate: what to remember?

Calcium caseinate is a substance used as a food additive in many products that you may consume on a daily basis. Also, since it is a sports supplement, you can incorporate it into your diet if you are looking to improve your muscle mass.

Remember that before using it you should consult a professional to make sure of any contraindications.