Will Heat Damage the Protein in Protein Powder? Everything You Need To Know
Key Takeaways:
Protein powders have become a staple for fitness enthusiasts, busy professionals, and health-conscious individuals. However, if you’re planning to add protein powder to hot beverages (like your morning coffee or tea), you might wonder: Will heat damage the protein in protein powder?
Let’s talk about how heat interacts with protein with this guide from Javvy.
What To Know About Protein and Heat
Protein is made up of amino acids linked together in chains, folded into specific structures.
Heat can sometimes denature protein, meaning the protein changes shape. However, denaturation doesn’t make the protein useless. Cooking meat, eggs, and other protein-rich foods also denatures protein, but your body is still able to absorb it and benefit from it.
According to research, moderate heat does not reduce the nutritional value of most protein powders, including whey, casein, and plant-based options.
Will Hot Coffee Destroy Protein Powder?
The short answer is no, hot coffee doesn’t destroy protein. Most commercial protein powders are designed to withstand moderate heat, which includes hot coffee temperatures (around 160-180°F or 70-82°C).
The main challenge is texture, not nutrition, as protein powder can clump when added to hot liquids.
Even if the protein changes shape slightly, your body can still digest it efficiently. So, you’re not losing muscle-building benefits by adding protein powder to hot coffee or tea.
Can You Mix Protein Powder in Hot Beverages?
Looking to add some protein to your favorite hot drinks? There’s a high chance that your protein will go clumpy in hot drinks, even if you “technically” mix it properly. That’s why at Javvy, we recommend mixing your protein into a cold liquid and then heating it up for a silky smooth cup. Plus, our Protein Creamer can be used in either hot or cold beverages.
What Are the Benefits of Protein Coffee?
When you add protein to coffee, you get a quick protein boost without preparing a separate shake. Caffeine provides energy and alertness, and satiety from protein helps control appetite until your next meal.
In other words, protein coffee is a great functional and tasty beverage choice — especially when you choose Javvy.
Our protein coffee is made with 100% real Arabica for a smooth, low-acid sip, 10 grams of premium whey protein, ~80 mg caffeine, and no added sugar for clean, steady energy. Our flavors span from French Vanilla to White Chocolate Mocha, giving you a delicious way to support satiety and recovery without the same crash.
The Bottom Line
Heat does not destroy the protein in most powders. Whether you’re adding whey, collagen, or plant-based protein to your hot coffee or tea, your body will still absorb the amino acids effectively.
For protein coffee that actually tastes good, lean on Javvy — our protein coffee is made with 100% Arabica coffee, and comes in delicious flavors for every palate.
FAQs
Will heat destroy whey protein?
No, whey protein is heat-stable at normal coffee or tea temperatures. Just mix carefully to prevent clumps.
Can I use protein powder in baking?
Yes, protein powder is commonly used in baked goods. Heat may denature it slightly, but the nutritional value remains.
Are plant-based proteins safe in hot drinks?
Yes, though the texture may be slightly gritty. Mixing your protein coffee cold and then heating it up is generally the best way to get a smooth cup.
Can I add protein to boiling liquids?
It’s best to avoid pouring protein powder directly into boiling liquids, as this can result in a clumpy texture.
Sources:
How Does Caffeine Give Us Energy? | Tufts Now
Protein, weight management, and satiety | PubMed
Heat-induced denaturation and bioactivity changes of whey proteins | ScienceDirect
What Are Proteins? Definition, Types & Examples | Cleveland Clinic