Egg White Protein
Albumin-based · DIAAS ~1.09 · Moderate absorption · Complete amino acid profile
Unregulated by FDA
for efficacy/purity
Version 2025-04 · Last Reviewed April 1, 2025
About this review (v2025-04, last reviewed April 1, 2025): This review was compiled from peer-reviewed clinical trials, independent laboratory analyses, and regulatory filings. Supplement manufacturers had no editorial input. Funding sources for cited studies are disclosed where available. Read our full methodology
This content is for educational purposes only. Supplements are not FDA-approved to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Discuss supplementation with your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you take medications.
What it is
Egg white protein (ovalbumin / albumin) is produced by spray-drying pasteurized egg whites. The yolk is removed, leaving pure egg white protein — predominantly ovalbumin (~54%), ovotransferrin (~12%), ovomucoid (~11%), and lysozyme. Egg white protein has a DIAAS score of ~1.09 — equivalent to whey isolate — making it one of the highest-quality protein sources available.
Why form matters
Egg white protein occupies a unique position: it is dairy-free (suitable for whey-intolerant individuals), a complete, high-quality protein (DIAAS ~1.09), but has moderate absorption speed — faster than casein, slower than whey. This moderate speed makes it a versatile all-day protein source rather than an acute post-exercise choice. The absence of biotin is a practical concern at high doses — avidin in raw egg whites binds biotin, but this is destroyed during pasteurization used in commercial egg white powders.
Molecular Forms — What the Research Actually Used
The form in the bottle determines how much actually reaches your bloodstream.
Absorption: Moderate — intermediate between whey and casein
The standard commercial form. Complete amino acid profile. No avidin activity (pasteurization destroys it). Suitable for dairy-intolerant individuals. Often has a mild egg flavor even in flavored versions.
Dosing — What the Research Used
General protein supplementation (dairy-free)
ISSN guidelines; comparable to whey dosing
Muscle protein synthesis support
Moderate absorption speed supports versatile use timing
Note: Egg white protein is an excellent whey alternative for dairy-intolerant individuals. The moderate absorption speed means it doesn't have the post-exercise advantage of whey's rapid peak, but is effective at any meal or snack timing. Total daily protein targets (1.6–2.2g/kg) remain the primary driver of outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Egg White Protein
- What is Egg White Protein?
- Egg white protein (ovalbumin / albumin) is produced by spray-drying pasteurized egg whites. The yolk is removed, leaving pure egg white protein — predominantly ovalbumin (~54%), ovotransferrin (~12%), ovomucoid (~11%), and lysozyme. Egg white protein has a DIAAS score of ~1.09 — equivalent to whey isolate — making it one of the highest-quality protein sources available.
- What does Egg White Protein do?
- Egg white protein matches whey isolate in DIAAS score (~1.09) — a complete, high-quality protein by any standard. Its moderate absorption speed (faster than casein, slower than whey) makes it a versatile choice for inter-meal protein supplementation. It is the best-evidenced complete protein alternative for individuals who cannot use whey due to dairy intolerance or allergy.
- What is the typical dose of Egg White Protein?
- Egg white protein is an excellent whey alternative for dairy-intolerant individuals. The moderate absorption speed means it doesn't have the post-exercise advantage of whey's rapid peak, but is effective at any meal or snack timing. Total daily protein targets (1.6–2.2g/kg) remain the primary driver of outcomes.
- Does Egg White Protein interact with any medications?
- Egg White Protein has known interactions with: Levothyroxine (Synthroid) — Protein meals affect levothyroxine absorption. Take thyroid medication 30–60 min before protein supplement.; Biotin supplements — Raw egg whites contain avidin (biotin-binding), but pasteurization destroys avidin in commercial egg white protein powder. No biotin interaction concern with pasteurized products..
- Who should be cautious about taking Egg White Protein?
- Exercise caution or consult a healthcare provider if you are: Egg allergy — egg white protein is contraindicated in egg allergy. Egg white albumin (ovomucoid) is a major allergen.; Kidney disease — high protein intake requires medical guidance..
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