Casein is a protein found in dairy. Cow’s and goat’s milk both contain casein as does butter, yogurt, ice cream, cheese, and cream. Ghee is butter that has had the casein removed from it.
If you are looking for milk products with a higher A2 content, the best option is to seek out milk products from a local farmer who raises Jersey cattle on grass. In stores, look for milk products labeled as being made from Jersey cow milk.
A1 beta casein has been associated with ill health and is found in larger ratios in the milk of certain types of cattle. Studies, including data from the World Health Organization, have linked A1 with increased risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, type 1 diabetes, sudden infant death syndrome, neurological disorders such as autism and schizophrenia, and possibly allergies. Some people may have an easier time digesting A1 than others, but it may not be healthful for anyone.
We’re constantly learning new details about health and nutrition, and in recent years some radical differences about the types of proteins in cow milk have come to light.
Jersey dairy cows, as well as goats and sheep, are noted as consistently producing milk with higher levels of A2 casein type. But these animals produce much less milk per animal.
In the future, we’ll see efforts in the dairy industry to identify A2-producing cows. One organization is readying a labeling program for dairy products in Australia and the U.S.
CAN YOU HAVE BUTTER IF YOU HAVE A DAIRY SENSITIVITY?
FAQ
Does butter have casein?
Why can I tolerate butter but not milk?
What dairy products are casein-free?
What foods are high in casein?
What is casein in butter?
Casein is a milk protein that is found in butter. It gives butter its elasticity and helps it to retain its shape when warmed. Butter is a dairy product that is made by churning fresh, raw milk. Casein is often used in cooking as a thickener and emulsifier. It is used in butter to make it more spreadable.
Is butter bad for health?
In small and controlled quantities, butter is not bad for health. However, due to the saturated fat content they have, it would not be healthy to consume these type of fats daily and/or in big portions. Maximum recommended quantity depends on each individual’s needs, but it is a common factor that saturated fat should be limited in the diet.
Can you eat butter if you have casein sensitivity?
Butter has small amounts of casein, so people with mild casein sensitivity may be able to tolerate butter in moderation, but for others, even a little bit of butter can cause a flare-up. Beta-casein, the main type, has two subtypes: A1 and A2.
Is casein a powder?
In its most common form, casein is a white, water-soluble powder, but some casein is produced as a natural yellow or greenish-brown colloidal substance. Now let’s look at what foods contain casein?