Separation and demineralization of whey protein and lactose requires a nanofiltration membrane that has an appropriate molecular weight cutoff to reject organic molecules yet is open enough to allow significant transport of monovalent salts. Today, fouling stands out as a primary challenge for nanofiltration membranes in dairy processes. The new generation of nanofiltration elements, designed with improved membrane chemistry, help endure the stress caused by the demanding conditions of daily cleaning.