Every year, the US produces well over 10 billion pounds of cheese, leading to the generation of more than 100 billion pounds of whey permeate. While whey-based protein drinks have become increasingly popular in recent years, there is also a growing trend of using whey in alcoholic beverages. 

Image source: Cayuga Ingredients

What is whey? 

Whey is a by-product of cheese production and has traditionally been considered a waste product. However, with the development of technology, it is now possible to turn this waste into a valuable product – whey-based alcohol. 

How is it made? 

The production of whey-based alcohol involves fermenting the lactose present in whey with yeast to produce alcohol. The alcohol produced can be used to make various types of drinks, including beer, spirits, and even vodka.  

What advantages does whey-based alcohol offer?

Whey-based alcohol is also a popular choice for individuals with lactose intolerance. The fermentation process used in the production of whey-based alcohol breaks down lactose, making it easier for those with lactose intolerance to consume these drinks without experiencing digestive issues. Also, it is more sustainable and has a much lower carbon footprint! 

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Whey-based alcohol also has a unique taste profile to add to it. The lactose present in whey gives the alcohol a slightly sweet taste, which can be enhanced or masked depending on the type of drink being made. 

While whey has a lot of benefits, one of the main challenges in producing whey-based alcohol is the lack of infrastructure. Most traditional alcohol producers do not have the equipment or expertise to produce whey-based alcohol. 

Finding the right expert can be difficult but not at IBWSS, 2023. Meet Cayuga Ingredients, our Exhibitor, who is the ONLY bulk producer of whey-based beverage alcohol in the United States.

Image Source: Cayuga Ingredients

They are committed to producing natural, sustainable, and healthy whey-based beverage products for their customers. The process they use leads to zero waste and liquid yeast protein leftover resulting in premium quality, protein-rich animal feed.

The bottom line is that their products recapture greenhouse gases. Does the beverage you consume do that? 

To ensure that you meet Cayuga Ingredients at IBWSS 2023, San Francisco who are bringing revolutionary changes in the alcohol industry and seek to lead the world in sustainable, renewable, and responsible ethanol production.

About IBWSS: 

The International Bulk Wine and Spirits Show, 2023 is an annual trade show and conference, open to trade professionals only, which takes place in San Francisco, CA. IBWSS visitors are buyers looking to meet up their demand for bulk wines, bulk spirits, private label programs, grape buying, or contract manufacturing. 

Written by Oindrila Majumdar, Beverage Trade Network.