If you’re familiar with the bodybuilding industry, you probably heard about the New Zealand whey protein isolate. Many people claim that this is better than other types. It’s even considered as the superior protein powder.
But why?
It all boils down to the processes that New Zealand whey isolates undergo. The treatment of the cows and how the milk is harvested is different than how it’s done with other protein powder products.
| NEW ZEALAND PROTEIN | NZ PROTEIN BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Antler Farms New Zealand Whey Isolate |  | Check Price |
 | Xwerks Grow New Zealand Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder |  | Check Price |
 | Ergogenics New Zealand Whey Protein Isolate | | Check Price |
The healthiest in the market
Many dub New Zealand whey protein as the highest quality protein. Since NZ is known for its wide pastures and abundance in wildlife. This is a very ideal place to raise cattle without the need to use hormones and artificial substances to boost lactation.
With this, the cows become healthy and they produce high-quality milk which will undergo a special process. However, since New Zealand protein is a top-shelf choice, it will cost more than the usual whey isolates in the market.
New Zealand whey vs regular whey
There’s a big difference to the usual whey protein you can find in the market as compared to the NZ type. Here are some of the distinct characteristics of the New Zealand whey isolate:
*The New Zealand whey isolate is free-range and grass-fed
New Zealand takes pride in its free-range and grass-fed cows. This is why dairy products in NZ are always in demand on the market. The cows are raised in the wild without the use of hormones and other injected chemicals.
Also, the cows get to eat grass as their natural diet instead of relying on feedlots. If you don’t know it yet, grain-fed cattle are notorious for their digestive problems and the accumulation of bacterial/toxins on their bodies.
Aside from that, producers of New Zealand whey isolate practices more humane methods of harvesting milk from the cows. They only milk the cattle when the season is right. This is a big difference to usual American farms where they continuously impregnate cows to sustain the lactation.
* New Zealand whey isolate products have no antibiotics and hormones
The biggest advantage of opting for NZ whey isolate is that the cows from where it’s extracted aren’t administered with antibiotics or hormones. You should know that most mass-producing farms will use hormones and antibiotics to boost the lactation of their cows.
This might look harmless, but the use of Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) translates to health issues among those who will ingest the protein. One of the serious effects of this artificial hormone is early puberty at 7 or 8 years old. It can also lead to antibiotic resistance to some individuals
Fortunately, New Zealand has a total ban for this substance.
With that, naturally raised cows are the gold standard of top whey isolate brands. It may cost more, but nothing beats the safety and quality it provides.
In this video, fitness trainer Thomas DeLauer discusses why grass-fed protein isolates are the best choice:
What’s with New Zealand?
New Zealand is probably one of the countries with the best conditions to raise cattle: green pastures, untouched lands, and ideal climate.
NZ has a great position in the globe which allows it to enjoy clean air and a grass-covered surrounding. All year round, cattle can graze on its lands without getting disturbed or forced away by man-made conditions.
With this, the cows can produce milk naturally, thus maximizing their natural diet and course of lactation. Also, New Zealand grass is found to be more nutritious for growing cattle.
The protein quality
The New Zealand whey protein isolate is more isolated than the regular powders you can see in the market. With this, you’ll get more protein in one serving compared to regular whey isolates.
The process of isolating the protein makes it easier to absorb inside the body. Also, the source is raised in an extremely natural and organic environment. With this, the cattle that supply the milk will experience the natural course of lactation.
The good thing with New Zealand is they have a ban on rBGH and other hormones injected to cows for the sake of speeding up growth and milk production.
Grass-fed vs. grain-fed cattle
It’s quite obvious why grass-fed cows are better: grass is their natural diet.
Organic grass plays a key role in cows’ gut health. It also supplies them with the vitamins and minerals that they need to stay healthy. The same is crucial during the lactation season where the milk for whey isolates is harvested.
Also, the cows’ digestive system has the structure to process grass. Cows’ stomach has four chambers where the grass breaks down. When a cow swallows grass, this goes to the chamber called ‘rumen’. Here countless organisms extract the nutrients of the grass.
The cow will re-chew the grass when the rumen is full. With that, the chewed grass undergoes the fermentation phase where the stomach utilizes most of the nutrients. And surprisingly, the grass is much complex than what we actually think.
Meanwhile, grain-fed cows don’t get to satisfy this natural process. Also, it’s observed that grain-fed cows produce fatty meat and its milk could be less nutritious.
Even studies state that grains like corn, cottonseed, and soy aren’t the species diet of cows. This is why grain-fed cows are likely to succumb to bacterial infections and other illnesses. Mind you, any illness that the cow experiences will affect the quality of milk it produces.
Benefits of New Zealand whey protein isolate
Given that the cows are raised and fed on their natural habitat means a lot when it comes to quality. Besides, who wouldn’t want an organic and clean formula for their protein isolate?
With that here are some of the benefits of New Zealand whey isolates:
99% lactose-free. A lot of those who are using whey isolates have lactose intolerance. And since New Zealand whey isolates are filtered to remove much of the milk lactose, it’s a better choice than regular whey.
Low-carb and low-fat. Whey isolates undergo more filtration process to remove excess fat and carbohydrates. Also, grass-fed cows have lower fat content on their meat and milk which is great for those who are growing muscles.
Easy-to-absorb protein. Unlike meat sources, whey isolates have very easy-to-digest protein content. This is why bodybuilders and gym buffs prefer this type of protein powder.
Organic protein isolate. Thanks to grass-fed cows, New Zealand whey isolates are organic and free of any hormones or antibiotics.
A host of minerals and vitamins. Since the source of whey came from an extremely ideal environment, the whey isolates tend to have more value in terms of nutrients and minerals.
A price to pay
The NZ whey isolate paints a greener pasture for bodybuilders. However, it also comes with a large price to pay.
Literally.
Most New Zealand-produced whey isolates cost more than the typical whey isolates in the U.S. Importation fees may apply, but it’s also the fact that the ingredients came from natural pastures.
The cost is actually twice than the regular whey isolates. But if you really want premium whey isolates, splurging will be worth it.
What to look for New Zealand whey isolates
When buying NZ whey isolates, make sure that your purchase one with the following:
Authenticity. There are dubious manufacturers that will try to trick you with false marketing. With this, make sure that you’re getting authentic New Zealand whey protein. Always check the ingredients’ list before buying.
Protein content. New Zealand whey isolates are popular due to its high protein content. Make sure that it meets your needs.
Micro-filtered whey. The best NZ whey isolate must undergo the micro-filtration process. Also, the powder contains a higher protein ratio with very low carb and fat content.
Flavor. It’s up to you to decide about the flavor of the whey isolate. Just know that unflavored ones are more versatile as you can add it to meals without ruining the taste.
Zero artificial substances. Artificial chemicals will only ruin the benefit that New Zealand whey isolates give. So as much as possible, stick to organic types.
Top 3 New Zealand Whey Protein Isolate
Looking for NZ whey isolates? Here the three best options:
Antler Farms New Zealand Whey Isolate
If you want authentic NZ whey isolate, don’t miss the Antler Farms New Zealand Whey Isolate powder. Also, Antler extracted this from 100% grass-fed cows that they raised from the Canterbury Plains. Rest assured that this isolate is free from any hormones or antibiotics.
Each serving of this whey isolate has 26 grams of protein that’s fast to absorb. The Antler whey isolate has undergone cold processing to retain the protein quality while removing excess fat and lactose.
This whey isolate has no fillers, artificial flavorings, sweeteners, or colorings that will defeat the quality. In addition, everything in this isolate is organic, including the organic stevia sweetener and flavoring.
What Antler offers is a pure and clean protein that suits bodybuilders and those who want to gain weight. This is also keto-friendly and delicious. You’d even forget that you’re taking protein powders.
Take note that each serving of this whey isolate contains 116 calories which are within the range of most protein powders.
✔️100% pure New Zealand whey isolate
✔️Comes in unsweetened and unflavored formulas
✔️Clean and pure formula
✔️Guaranteed organic from grass-fed grass
❌A bit expensive than other options
Xwerks Grow New Zealand Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder
If you’re looking for another option, you can try the Xwerks Grow New Zealand Protein Powder. This isolate has a chocolate cream flavor from natural sweeteners and flavorings.
Each serving of this whey isolate has 25 grams of protein and 6 grams of BCAAs. Moreover, Xwersk makes a powerful choice for bodybuilders and those who want to pack up with lean muscles.
Grass-fed cows grazing in the countryside of New Zealand produced the milk for this whey isolate. Moreover, there are no hormones, pesticides, or antibiotics used in the production of this isolate.
The Xwerks protein isolate has undergone the non-ion exchange filtering and cold processing to ensure topnotch protein quality. Also, manufacturers process this free of bleach and any acids that can be detrimental to one’s health.
Aside from muscle-building amino acids, this protein also contains beta-lactoglobulin, lactoferrin, and alpha-lactalbumin that promote overall wellness.
With this, the Xwerks isolate has no clumps and has an amazing flavor that will appeal to most takers.
✔️Pure and high-quality protein
✔️Packed with BCAAs
✔️Bleach and acid-free processing
✔️Authentic New Zealand whey isolate
❌A bit too sweet
❌Pricey for its size
Ergogenics New Zealand Whey Protein Isolate
Do you want more protein? The Ergogenics New Zealand Whey Protein Isolate has 31 grams of protein and 7 grams of BCAAs. It’s also rich with chocolate flavor that will be irresistible for your taste buds.
Also, it’s made from authentic New Zealand isolates harvested from free-range cows that are free from hormones and antibiotics.
This 910-gram tub is perfect for bodybuilders or those who want to pump up their protein content in a delicious way. It’s also packed with various amino acids like Alanine, Lysine, Glutamic Acid, Isoleucine, Methionine, and more.
Although this is a bit expensive, Ergogenics is worth the investment if you want premium protein with an amazing taste.
For daily servings, one scoop a day would be enough. This is equivalent to 30 grams that you can use protein shakes and your desserts.
✔️910-gram tub for bodybuilders
✔️Excellent amino acid profile
✔️31 grams of protein per serving
✔️BCAAs included
❌Limited flavor options
Final verdict
OUR TOP PICK
Product Name: Antler Farms New Zealand Whey Isolate
Product Description: What Antler offers is a pure and clean protein that suits bodybuilders and those who want to gain weight. This is also keto-friendly and delicious. You’d even forget that you’re taking protein powders. Each serving of this whey isolate is packed with 26 grams of protein that’s fast to absorb. The Antler whey isolate has undergone cold processing to retain the protein quality while removing excess fat and lactose.
Price: $$$
Availability: InStock
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Summary
This whey isolate has no fillers, artificial flavorings, sweeteners, or colorings that will defeat the quality. Everything in this isolate is organic, including the organic stevia sweetener and flavoring.
Pros
-100% pure New Zealand whey isolate
-Comes in unsweetened and unflavored formulas
-Clean and pure formula
-Guaranteed organic from grass-fed grass
Cons
-A bit expensive than other options
All these New Zealand whey protein isolate products are excellent. Still, your choice depends on the amount of protein you need and your preferred taste.
Also, the price will play a vital role here. As much as affordable options are easy on the pocket, expensive ones are worth the splurge. It all boils down to choosing quality. Besides, this will directly affect your health.
Just make sure that you’re getting authentic and high-quality NZ whey isolates. Always check the ingredients to make sure that you’re getting 100% pure isolates.
