The aim of this study was to concentrate whey protein by ultrafiltration process, evaluating the pressure at 1-3 bar and temperature of 10-20℃. In the conditions that show the more protein concentration were evaluated the interfacial and emulsifying properties at pH 5.7 and 7.0. The whey concentrate at 10℃ and 1.5 bar showed the higher protein value 36% (w/w), with soluble protein of 33.82% (solubility of 93.94%) for pH 5.7 and 34% (solubility of 94.4%) for pH 7.0, respectively. The whey concentrate powder present particle size distribution between 0.4-110 um. The whey at pH 5.7 and 7.0 was not observed significant differences in the resistance parameters of the oil/water layer interface. The interfacial film formed by the proteins presented an essentially elastic behavior in both pH, and in pH 5.7 the emulsion was more stable with lower diameter droplets. The concentrate whey showed techno-functional properties (emulsification and solubility), which allow the use as ingredients in products of industrial interest in food products such as mayonnaise, ice cream, sauces, and others.
Keywords: Protein concentration; elastic behavior; emulsification; solubility.