PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Whey is the most abundant protein subproduct of the dairy industry, representing
about 80% of the volume of the milk. Thus, it is of great interest to create options
to use whey or its isolated proteins. Among the possibilities that promote an exponential
aggregated value to whey is the enzymatic hydrolysis of its proteins, since
this treatment promotes the breakdown of the protein molecule into smaller units
and has been outstanding in improving its nutritional, sensorial and functional
properties. Also, the whey proteins have been identified as nutrients with functional
activity, containing bioactive peptides able to modulate some physiological
responses of either mammalian or rats. Such peptides are inactive as part of the
intact proteins, but they become active when released during digestion or during
in vitro enzymatic hydrolysis. In this way, whey protein hydrolysates could be
introduced into the diet as an alternative and non-pharmacological approach to
prevent and treat arterial hypertension.