Evaluation of physicochemical and functional attributes of whey powder incorporated with pomegranate peel extract

•Pomegranate peel extract on the properties of whey powder has been determined.•Phenolic content and antioxidant activity are increased significantly.•Interaction between proteins and polyphenols has been observed.•Exothermic events and viscosity are altered significantly.•Hygroscopicity increased and large aggregates of particles are formed.