κ-Casein Macropeptides from Cheese Whey: Physicochemical, Biological, Nutritional, and Technological Features for Possible Uses

Abstract

Abstract κ-Casein macropeptide (CMP), one of the components of whey, is produced during cheese making. Whey production has grown enormously in the last three decades and will continue to grow, along with cheese production. There is an increased interest in research for new applications of food industry by-products in order to avoid their extensive elimination and negative environmental implications. In this respect, CMP has been the focus of extensive scientific research that has proven its value as a functional and bioactive peptide, as well as a source of biologically active peptides. This article evaluates the possibilities and future perspectives of the use of CMP and related peptides obtained from cheese whey from different ruminant species. Physicochemical, technological, biological, and nutritional aspects are considered, and processes for analysis, fractionation, and separation are reviewed. The objective is to help to promote further exploitation of cheese industry coproducts for the preparation of high added-value ingredients to be included in the composition of nutraceuticals or functional food products.