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Abstract

The claims describe methods and apparatus for obtaining a target component from a milk source using a membrane-based electrophoresis separation system. They may also be used in conjunction with or as a substitute for one or more steps in a conventional purification scheme for obtaining target component from a milk source. A milk source is pre-treated to remove or reduce the concentration of fats, casein, protein, or a combination thereof. Using an electrophoresis apparatus containing a separation membrane to define a first and second interstitial volume between at least two restriction membranes, the pre-treated milk source is placed in one of the interstitial volumes. A solvent maintains the target component in the milk source in a desired charge state. Applying a potential between the first and second interstitial volumes separates at least a portion of the target component on one side of the separation membrane from unwanted molecules on the other side of the separation membrane.

First Claim