It’s dairy milk, but some people with lactose intolerance may be able to drink it.

By Cooking Light Editors
April 24, 2018
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Lactose intolerance is extremely common, and anywhere between 30 to 50 million American adults are lactose intolerant. And that’s not even accounting for those with dairy sensitivity or allergies.

People who fall in these groups are often offered one of two options (aside from simply trying to abstain): Either drink "lactose-free milk" which is treated with a substance that breaks down lactose, or opt for one of the many soy, grain, or nut-based milk alternatives.

The lactose free milk often has a sweeter, taste which some people don't care for. And while dairy-free milk alternatives can be tasty, they don't have the same nutritional value.

But, there may be good news for milk lovers who can’t quite stomach the alternatives: A company called A2 believes they've found a way to bring actual milk to people who have a hard time digesting dairy.

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The A2 milk company was founded in 2000 in New Zealand by Dr Corran McLachlan, a researcher who believes that the A1 protein is responsible for all kinds of gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, bloating, and more. He and his company have funded several double-blind randomized studies that suggest that people who drink milk that lacks this protein fare much better.

The company has helped develop several breeds of cattle that produce milk solely with the A2 protein, and they claim it is much easier to digest. On the other hand, the European Food Safety Authority found little evidence that A1 proteins have any negative health effects.

Recently A2 Milk has made its way from Australia and New Zealand to the United States. A2 milk isn’t dairy- or lactose-free. It’s pure cows’ milk, and A2 cows aren’t treated with any growth hormones, antibiotics, or rBST.  A2 milk comes in whole, 2% reduced-fat, 1% low-fat, and 2% reduced-fat chocolate.

If you're interested in trying it, here’s where you can find some near you.