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How to Remove Casein

Casein is a protein that is commonly found in mammalian milk. Casein makes up about 80 percent of the protein in a cow's milk and 60 percent to 65 percent of the protein in human milk. It has many uses from being a component of cheese to its use as a binder for safety matches. Casein is relatively easy to remove from milk and precipitates out when heated and exposed to acid. When removed from solution casein forms an elastic white material that is an excellent source of essential amino acids, some carbohydrates, phosphorus, and calcium.

Things You'll Need

50 grams powdered nonfat milk
1 pint distilled water
Large heat-resistant glass bottle
Plastic spatula
Large saucepan
Electronic thermometer
Large bottle of distilled white vinegar
Small plastic bowl
Tap water

Instructions

- 1
  Turn on a burner of your stove to a medium setting.
- 2
  Fill the large saucepan half full with tap water and place it on the burner that has been set to medium heat. Allow the water to boil.
- 3
  Mix the 50 grams of powdered nonfat milk with the pint of distilled water in the large heat-resistant glass bottle.
- 4
  Place the glass bottle containing the milk mixture into the pan of boiling water, making sure it stays sitting upright, and allow this mixture to reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Monitor this by using the electronic thermometer.
- 5
  Pour the distilled white vinegar into the milk mixture slowly, while it is still in the boiling water at 105 degrees Fahrenheit, until you see the casein begin to precipitate out into small white blobs.
- 6
  Take the plastic spatula and press the white blobs against the side of the glass container, allowing any liquid to drain off.
- 7
  Scrape the drained casein from the sides of the glass container and place it into the small bowl.
- 8
  Pour the vinegar into the milk mixture and repeat the draining and scraping process until no more casein precipitates.
- 9
  Turn off the burner and allow the contents of the saucepan to cool. When it has thoroughly cooled, remove the glass bottle and pour its contents down the drain. Pour the remaining water from the saucepan down the drain.
- 10
  Place a lid on the small plastic container holding the casein until you are ready to use it.

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