Processes and systems are provided for aggregating whey protein including preparing a whey protein solution containing native whey protein, adjusting the pH of the whey protein solution, denaturing at least a portion of the native whey protein, separating the denatured material and processing the denatured material by shearing to form whey protein aggregates. Also provided are whey protein aggregates and uses thereof, such as in the production of dairy products or in cheesemaking.