A1 vs A2 Milk Protein: Understanding the Differences and Benefits

The global A2 milk market size was valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2021, expected to reach USD 5 billion growing at a CAGR of 16.12% during the forecast period. (source)

A2 milk is a form of cow's milk that does not contain the A1 beta-casein protein and instead predominately consists of only the A2 beta-casein protein. A2 milk is a replacement for regular cow's milk. It is obtained from specific breeds of cows, such as Guernsey, Jersey, Holstein, and Brown Swiss. There is an upsurge in the desire for functional beverages that offer digestive benefits due to the general public's growing awareness of the importance of health and wellness. The formation of A2 protein is more similar to human breast milk, goat, sheep, and buffalo milk. In addition, factors such as increased consumer spending and increased product awareness and knowledge as a result of advertising have significantly impacted the demand for A2 milk.

You may be wondering "Does A2 Milk Make a Difference?" or "Is A2 Milk Worth the Money?" Well, this article will help you understand the difference between A2 milk and A1 milk so you can decide which one is the best for you!

A1 vs A2 Milk

A1 and A2 milk refer to the types of protein found in cow’s milk. A1 milk contains the A1 beta-casein protein, while A2 milk contains the A2 beta-casein protein. The main difference between A1 and A2 milk is that A1 milk may result in gastrointestinal problems while A2 milk might not.

A2 Milk May Help Reduce Gastrointestinal Discomfort in Some People

In humans, there is evidence from a limited number of studies that A1 consumption is associated with delayed intestinal transit (1 clinical study) and looser stool consistency (2 clinical studies). In addition, digestive discomfort is correlated with inflammatory markers in humans for A1 but not A2. However, further research is required in humans to investigate the digestive function effects of A1 relative to A2 in different populations and dietary settings. (Source)

Source: A1 vs A2 Dairy

A1 and A2 Milk Are Both Nutritious

In terms of nutrition, A2 milk is no different from A1 milk. Both milks contain the same essential nutrients, such as calcium, protein, and fats, and provide similar health benefits. 

A2 Milk May Increase the Production of the Antioxidant Glutathione

Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that is essential for many bodily functions, including immunological function, gene expression, and protection against oxidative stress. As a result, low glutathione levels promote early aging and the onset and progression of diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart attacks, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.

A study showed that milk containing only A2 β-casein and not A1 β-casein has the potential to promote the production of the antioxidant glutathione in humans.

How A1 & A2 Milk Are Produced?

A1 milk is produced by selecting cows that have been tested to produce the A1 protein, and then processing the milk as normal. A1 beta-casein can be found in milk from breeds of cows that originated in northern Europe such as Holstein, Friesian, Ayrshire and British Shorthorn

Whereas, A2 milk is produced by cows that produce only A2 beta-casein proteins in their milk. Cows are tested for the presence of the A2 beta-casein protein through a process called DNA testing. If the test is positive, then the cow is considered to be a producer of A2 milk only. A2 beta-casein can be found in milk from breeds of cows that originated in the Channel Islands and Southern France such as Guernsey, Jersey, Charolais and Limousin

Prices

Due to its production by smaller farms and the need for more specialized processing, A2 milk might be more expensive than A1 milk. However, prices can vary depending on where you purchase them.

Uses

There is no difference between A2 milk and A1 milk when it comes to consumption and use in different foods and recipes. 

You can use both A2 milk and ordinary A1 milk interchangeably while making milkshakes, smoothies, cereal bowls, coffee cups, homemade ice cream, and other foods.

A1 vs A2 Milk Protein FAQ

a. Can People With CMPA Drink A2 Milk?

A2 milk may be safe for people who are allergic to cow's milk protein (CMPA). A2 milk does not contain the A1 beta-casein protein, which is most commonly associated with CMPA. However, before introducing any new food or beverage into a person's diet, they should consult with a healthcare provider.

A1 vs A2 Milk Protein: The bottom line

Debate about the potential health effects of A1 and A2 milk is ongoing.

Research suggests that A1 beta-casein causes adverse digestive symptoms in certain individuals.

But the evidence is still too weak for any solid conclusions to be made about the supposed links between A1 beta-casein and other conditions, such as type 1 diabetes and autism.

That said, A2 milk could be worth a try if you struggle to digest regular milk.

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