Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Milk contains two primary protein fractions: caseins (approximately 80%) and whey proteins (approximately 20%).
High-protein dairy powders are manufactured using physical separation or chemical precipitation methods.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the protein composition and native state of each powder:
1. Ricotta powder: This is produced from whey, sometimes with added milk, and consists primarily of denatured whey proteins that have been thermally precipitated.
2. Calcium co-precipitate: This is manufactured by adding calcium chloride to milk and heating to high temperatures (approx. 90$^{\circ}$C).
This process thermally denatures and chemically precipitates the proteins, meaning they are not in their native state.
3. Demineralized whey powder: This contains only whey proteins, with casein absent, and has a lower total protein concentration than milk protein concentrates.
4. Milk Protein Concentrate (MPC): This is manufactured by ultrafiltering skim milk.
Ultrafiltration physically concentrates the proteins while letting water, lactose, and soluble minerals pass through as permeate.
Because no chemical precipitation or high-heat treatment is used, MPC contains both caseins and whey proteins in their native ratio (approx. 80:20) and in a near-native functional state.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, Milk Protein Concentrate is the high-protein powder that contains both milk proteins in a near-native state.