Progress in Membrane Technology for the Enrichment of Individual Whey Proteins

Abstract

There is significant commercial interest in whey proteins, particularly minor components such as lactoferrin and immunoglobulins. Although large-scale fractionation using membrane technology is feasible, achieving high purity remains challenging due to broad membrane pore size distributions and overlapping protein sizes in whey. This review explores advances in membrane-based separation processes tailored to isolate individual whey proteins with improved yield and purity. Innovations in process design, including cascade membrane systems, hybrid methods integrating chromatography or electrodialysis, and ultrafiltration (UF) optimization, have enhanced separation efficiency. Surface modifications, such as pH-responsive groups, nanoenhanced composites, and tailored charges, improved selectivity and reduced fouling. Feed pretreatments, including enzymatic cross-linking, preheating, and ionic adjustments, further refined UF by modifying protein size, charge, or solubility. Collectively, these strategies provide practical solutions for isolating specific whey fractions with enhanced functional and nutritional value, while addressing persistent industrial and scientific challenges in protein fractionation.