Long ago, milk options were limited to whole, low-fat, skim, and maybe chocolate. Nowadays, the milk aisle is filled with a variety of options, from nut milks to oat milk to A2 milk.
So, what exactly is A2 milk? A2 milk is cow’s milk that contains mainly A2 beta-casein, which is believed to be easier for the body to digest and absorb compared to the A1 beta-casein found in most cow’s milk in the United States.
Understanding A2 Milk
A2 milk was first introduced by The a2 Milk Company in New Zealand in 2003 and has since become a $2 billion industry. It can now be found in over 29,000 retailers across the U.S., including major stores like Costco and Walmart.
A1 Milk vs. A2 Milk
Proponents of A2 milk claim that A1 beta-casein can be challenging to digest for some individuals and may impact blood sugar levels. However, research on these claims is limited.
Production and Differences of A2 Milk
A2 milk is produced by cows that carry a genetic variation resulting in milk containing A2 beta-casein and lacking A1 beta-casein. Cows in Asia, Africa, and parts of Southern Europe predominantly produce A2 milk.
Potential Benefits of A2 Milk
Studies funded by The a2 Milk Company suggest that A2 milk may be easier to digest for some individuals and could promote healthier blood sugar levels. However, independent research is needed to confirm these claims.
Possible Risks of A2 Milk
While A2 milk is similar to regular cow’s milk in terms of lactose content and allergens, individuals with lactose intolerance or cow’s milk allergies may still experience adverse reactions.