Got A2A2 milk?

Milk–that creamy white liquid we enjoy so much with cookies or cereal. It’s a great source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D, we’ve often been told. 

More recently, you may have been hearing about A2A2 milk. 

What is A2A2 milk? How is it different from regular milk?

Milk contains two major proteins–casein and whey. Beta-casein, a kind of casein, makes up 30% of milk’s protein. 

Beta-casein is composed of two protein variants–A1 and A2. 

The human body responds differently to these two proteins. When digested, the A1 protein produces a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7(BCM-7), which can cause stomach discomfort. The A2 protein is more similar to the proteins in goat or sheep milk and is often easier to digest.

In the past, most cows produced only the A2 protein. But then genetic researchers discovered that cows with the A1 gene could produce more milk, and farmers spent most of the 19th century trying to eliminate the A2 gene.

Today, however, with studies showing the benefits of the A2 protein, many farmers are steering away from the A1 gene and back to the A2. 

Gene testing is readily available today and is easily done by sending a few of the cow’s hairs to a lab for testing. Within a week or two, the results show which protein variants will be found in each cow’s milk– A1-A1, A1-A2, or A2-A2.

So, if regular milk causes digestive discomfort, maybe A2A2 milk will be the answer you are seeking!

When shopping for A2A2 milk, make sure the label clearly states “100% A2A2.” Because sadly, some companies are not above fudging the labels on their products, calling it “A2 Milk” because it contains some A2 proteins while ignoring the fact that it also contains some A1 proteins. 

Note: You may see both A2 and A2A2 used as labels. Technically they are the same thing, although A2A2 is more scientifically correct and less easily misused, as it clearly indicates that both protein variants are A2. 

Warning: A2 milk is still milk. If you have milk allergies or lactose intolerance, do not try A2 milk without first consulting your doctor.