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What is A2 Milk? Why is it More Expensive than Regular Milk?

The concept of A2 milk was first introduced to the New Zealand and Australian markets in 2020, and it often carries a premium price tag. But what is A2 milk, and why is it priced higher than regular milk?

Administrator

13 July, 2024

Some people experience digestive issues, stomach aches, or bloating after consuming dairy. To address this problem, manufacturers in Australia and New Zealand introduced A2 milk, which claims to mitigate these issues. But how does A2 milk work, and why is it more expensive than regular milk?

What is A2 Milk?

Many individuals experience digestive problems, nausea, stomach pain, or bloating after drinking regular cow’s milk. Typically, this is due to lactose intolerance, the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. However, the root cause of these digestive issues is often a type of protein in milk called Beta-Casein A1, or simply A1 protein.

Normally, cows produce Beta-Casein A2, or A2 protein. But during evolution, a new variant of the A1 protein started appearing in cow’s milk. To address this issue, manufacturers selectively breed cows that naturally produce only the A2 protein, creating A2 milk.

According to A2 milk expert Professor David Cameron-Smith, A2 milk offers positive differences compared to A1 milk, as it reduces digestive issues like bloating and nausea. A survey of 600 people in China showed that a majority of respondents had a better reaction to A2 milk than regular A1 milk.

A2 Milk Comes from Specially Bred Cows

Why is A2 Milk More Expensive?

Producing A2 milk requires manufacturers to put in extra effort to manage and selectively breed cows that naturally produce only the A2 protein. Additionally, genetic testing is required to ensure these cows pass on the desired genes to their offspring.

Furthermore, marketing A2 milk to a specific target audience of lactose-intolerant individuals also contributes to its higher price point.

A2 Milk is Typically Priced Higher Than Regular Milk

A2 milk’s selective breeding process addresses the issues caused by A1 milk for some consumers. With these benefits, it’s understandable why A2 milk commands a higher price. We hope this information helps you choose the right type of milk for your family!

Source: Consolidated

Reference: Zing News

Frequently asked questions

A2 milk is a type of cow’s milk that contains only the A2 protein type, whereas regular milk contains a mixture of both A1 and A2 proteins. The A1 protein has been linked to digestive discomfort and some health concerns, so A2 milk is marketed as an easier-to-digest, healthier alternative. The higher price of A2 milk is due to the specialized breeding and farming practices required to produce it, as well as the additional testing and processing needed to ensure the absence of the A1 protein.

Some people believe that A2 milk offers health benefits over regular milk, such as improved digestion and reduced inflammation. Those with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities may find A2 milk easier to tolerate. Additionally, A2 milk is said to have a slightly sweeter taste than regular milk, which may be preferred by some consumers.

One potential downside is the limited availability and higher cost of A2 milk compared to regular milk. Additionally, while there is ongoing research into the health effects of A1 and A2 proteins, the evidence is not yet conclusive, and more studies are needed to confirm the purported benefits of A2 milk.

Reputable A2 milk producers will have their milk tested and certified to ensure it only contains the A2 protein. Look for brands that are transparent about their testing methods and sourcing practices. You can also check for labels or certifications that indicate the milk has been verified to contain only the A2 protein type.

Yes, it is possible to produce A2 milk at home by owning Guernsey, Jersey, or Holstein cows that have been tested and confirmed to produce only the A2 protein. However, this is not a common practice due to the specialized knowledge and resources required to breed and maintain such a herd.