Colostrum and whey protein both come from cow's milk, so they're easy to mix up. They're made differently, used in very different amounts, and people take them for different reasons. Here's a clear comparison.
What is whey protein?
Whey is the liquid left over when milk is turned into cheese. It's filtered and dried into whey protein powder. The two most common types are:
- Whey protein concentrate (WPC): usually around 70–80% protein, with some lactose and fat.
- Whey protein isolate (WPI): filtered further to around 90% protein, with less lactose.
A typical serve is a 25–30g scoop, taken as a protein shake.
What is colostrum?
Bovine colostrum is the first milk a cow produces in the first few days after calving. It's collected before regular milk comes in and dried into a powder. Colostrum is far richer than regular milk in protein and contains naturally occurring immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) and lactoferrin.
MUUU Colostrum Powder is 100% pure, undiluted bovine colostrum from grass-fed New Zealand cows.
Colostrum vs whey at a glance
| Colostrum | Whey protein | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | The first milk after calving | A by-product of cheese making |
| Main reason people take it | A daily whole-food supplement with naturally occurring immunoglobulins | Adding protein to the diet |
| Typical serve | 2g (1 teaspoon) or 2 capsules | 25–30g scoop |
| Immunoglobulins | Naturally high | Present in small amounts |
| Usually flavoured? | MUUU: no, one ingredient | Often flavoured and sweetened |
| Contains milk? | Yes | Yes |
The key difference: what you're taking it for
Whey is a protein supplement. You take a large scoop to hit a protein target, usually after training.
Colostrum is a concentrated whole-food supplement. You take a small daily serve for its naturally occurring immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and other milk proteins, not to meet your protein needs.
Can you take colostrum with whey?
Yes. A teaspoon of colostrum powder stirs easily into a protein shake, so you can take both in one drink. If you prefer, take MUUU Colostrum Capsules alongside your shake instead.
Both products contain milk, so neither is suitable for anyone with a cow's milk allergy. Follow the directions on each label.
Which should you choose?
- Choose whey if your goal is more protein in your diet.
- Choose colostrum if you want a small, single-ingredient daily supplement with naturally occurring immunoglobulins.
- Use both if that suits your routine. They do different jobs.
Shop MUUU Colostrum Powder: 2,000mg per teaspoon, 40 serves per tub, delivered Australia-wide.
This article is general information, not medical advice. MUUU is a dietary supplement. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Contains milk.
