Milk allergy: where it hides in an ingredients list
Cow's milk proteins—casein and whey proteins—remain in the product after heating, so baked goods and prepared foods containing milk are just as significant as milk itself.
Names it appears under
- casein
- sodium caseinate
- calcium caseinate
- whey
- whey protein
- lactose
- lactalbumin
- lactoglobulin
- dried milk
- milk solids
- nonfat dry milk
- milk fat
- clarified butter
- ghee
Where you expect it
- milk
- cheese
- cottage cheese
- yogurt
- cream
- sour cream
- ice cream
- butter
Where you do not
- bread and buns
- sausages and hot dogs
- cheese or sour cream flavored chips
- instant soups and mashed potatoes
- chocolate, including dark
- margarine
- sauces and dressings
- protein bars
Frequently asked questions
- Are milk allergy and lactose intolerance the same thing?
- No. An allergy is an immune system reaction to milk protein, while lactose intolerance is a lack of the enzyme needed to break down milk sugar. "Lactose-free" products contain the same protein and are not suitable for those with an allergy.
- Is clarified butter safe?
- Clarified butter contains less protein than regular butter, but it is still present. Decisions regarding its use should be made with a doctor, not based on the ingredient list on the packaging.
- Is milk from other animals suitable?
- Goat and sheep milk proteins are similar to cow's milk, and reactions to them can be the same. This is a question for a doctor, not for the label.
Check the package rather than remember the list. Photograph the barcode and the app reads the ingredients and flags what you marked.
Other allergens: Egg · Peanut · Tree nuts · Fish · Crustaceans · Mollusks · Soy · Gluten · all fourteen
This reference is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor.