Question:
DOES HEAT AFFECT PROTEIN POWDER?

I was wondering if you can add protein powder to hot liquids. Does it change the the protein absorbtion or kill the protein?    — Kelly* P. (posted on November 5, 2003)

November 5, 2003
Heat does not affect the protein but some brands I have had clumped up in hot liquids. With those I would mix it with a small amount of cold liquid and then add it to my hot liquid (coffee). One of the things that I still do over 3 years out is add a scoop of protein powder to my oatmeal in the morning. I like the taste and I get a quick 30 gr. of protein to start the day off right.
   — livnliter

November 5, 2003
How hot? Yes, usually anything hotter than tap water begins to break it down. Whey proteins are cold processed for that reason. But as to what EXACT temp for YOUR brand, no idea.
   — vitalady

November 5, 2003
Be sure to check the label on you protein. Some of them will tell you "will not dissolve in boiling water". I found that out the hard way making jell-o. Mix it in the cold water and THEN heat it.
   — CAMFR

November 5, 2003
hiya! proteins are made up of twisty chains of amino acids and will start to denature (think unravel) if exposed to high heats...how high though? I don't know but i've always been told to keep it below the boiling temp (which is why you can bake with protein but not add it to boiling liquids). i add mine to my coffee and i've noticed that if the coffee is freshly brewed (and very hot) the protien clumps and will not mix however if the coffee is cooled some (still warm though) it blends right in so i think there is truth to that statement. protein can be denatured to a certain point and still be usable by the body but i don't think there is any way to tell just how far that is... good luck, kate
   — jkb

November 6, 2003
OK, biologist talking here. Proteins will denature at high temperatures....meaning you would have to add to a boiling liquid for it to denature. There is question though that even if it denatures, the amino acids will still put the good stuff in you. I occassionally add protein powder to my low-sugar hot chocolate. That certainly won't hurt to add it to a warm beverage.
   — emilyfink

November 6, 2003
I drink Scan Diet sometimes and had the same question for them. I emailed them and asked them the same question. They said it would lessen the protein value. Just an FYI. If you can find a website, contact the protein maker directly and ask them. Good luck.
   — Esse