SupplementScience

Beef Protein — Frequently Asked Questions

DJP
Reviewed by , MD, Board Certified Internal Medicine

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is beef protein as good as whey?

Beef protein isolate has a comparable amino acid profile to whey and similar bioavailability. A 2015 study by Sharp et al. found no significant difference in muscle gains or strength improvements between beef protein and whey protein over 8 weeks of resistance training. The primary advantage of beef protein is for those who cannot tolerate dairy.

Does beef protein taste like beef?

Modern beef protein isolate is highly processed and hydrolyzed, removing the taste and smell of beef. Flavored varieties (chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter) taste similar to other protein powders. Unflavored versions have a mild, neutral taste that blends easily into smoothies and recipes.

Is beef protein good for the carnivore diet?

Yes, beef protein isolate is one of the most popular protein supplements for carnivore dieters since it contains no plant ingredients, dairy, or soy. It provides a convenient way to meet high protein targets (often 1g+ per lb body weight) on a carnivore diet without cooking additional meals.

References

  1. (). The effects of beef protein isolate and whey protein isolate supplementation on lean mass and strength in resistance trained individuals. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
  2. (). Effects of Whey Protein Alone or as Part of a Multi-ingredient Formulation on Strength, Fat-Free Mass, or Lean Body Mass in Resistance-Trained Individuals: A Meta-analysis. Sports Medicine. DOI