Have you seen milk on the dairy shelf labeled A2? What does this mean? Where does it come from? From an A2 cow? Specific cow breeds, such as Guernsey or Jersey, naturally produce A2 milk.

This results in marketing it as a “heritage” product. Cows produce A1 and A2 milk. The terms refer to the milk protein. These variants are determined by a cow’s genetics.

The A2 variant is considered the original form of beta-casein protein because it is believed to be the type all cows produced thousands of years ago, before domestication and breeding led to the emergence of the A1 variant. At some point, the amino acid proline in A2 milk became histidine in A1 milk.

This mutation altered how the protein is digested. A scientist in New Zealand began researching in the 1990’s the differences between A1 and A2 after noticing possible links between A1 milk consumption and health issues like digestive discomfort.

This led to the founding of the A2 Milk Company which has resulted in global production. The A2 milk we carry at Georgetown is under the A2 Milk Company label.

A2 milk is considered healthier than A1 milk. It is easier to digest, reducing bloating or inflammation in some people, particularly those with sensitive stomachs or lactose intolerance symptoms.

A2 milk may reduce inflammation in the gut and other parts of the body. While A2 milk still contains lactose, some people who experience mild milk-related discomfort report fewer symptoms with A2 milk.

Nutritionally, A2 milk is nearly identical to A1 milk in terms of nutrients and fat content. A2 milk by the A2 Milk Company is whole milk and is free of the rBST growth hormone. It is not organic.

Please remember that A2 milk contains lactose and milk protein, so it is not appropriate for people with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. Look for the A2 Milk Company brand in our dairy case in the red packaging. Please ask for assistance if needed.

(DISCLAIMER: The information provided has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner.