Should You Drink A2 Milk Instead Of Regular Milk?

The myths and facts about a2 milk – details to help you decide if you should give it a go!

By Amy Burkhart MD, RD

A2 milk is increasing in popularity

What is A2 milk? If you’ve ever felt bloated or uncomfortable after drinking regular cow’s milk, you’re not alone. Many people experience digestive issues, leading them to seek alternatives. A2 milk is a rising contender in the dairy world, with claims that it’s easier to digest than traditional milk. But is that true? And what about other concerns—Is A2 milk genetically modified? Can people with lactose intolerance drink it? How does it compare in price? Let’s dive into these questions and answer the most common questions about A2 milk..

Thousands of years ago, cows only produced the a2 type of protein in their milk.

Milk contains two main types of protein: casein and whey. Casein, the primary protein, has two variations—A1 and A2. Most store-bought milk contains a mix of both, but A2 milk is different. It comes from cows specifically bred to produce only the A2 protein.

Originally, all cows produced A2 protein, but over thousands of years, a natural mutation introduced A1 protein into dairy herds. Today, selective breeding is required to produce milk that contains only A2 protein. Some research suggests that A2 milk may be easier to digest, similar to goat’s and sheep’s milk, which naturally contain A2 protein.

A2 milk first gained popularity in Australia and New Zealand before expanding to the U.S. and Europe in 2015.

You may be able to tolerate a2 milk if you have lactose intolerance, but you may not. Read on.

Lactose is the main sugar in milk, and our ability to digest it depends on our genetics and gut health. When the gut is damaged—often due to diet or other factors—it can reduce lactase production, the enzyme needed to break down lactose.

Interestingly, some research suggests that people who think they’re lactose intolerant may actually tolerate A2 milk better than regular milk. This is because their symptoms might not be caused by lactose but rather by inflammation triggered by the A1 protein in regular milk. A2 milk does however contain lactose so if someone is lactose intolerant they should drink it with caution or use a lactaid supplement when drinking it.

A2 milk is not safe if you have a dairy allergy.

If you have a dairy allergy, A2 milk is not safe. Do not drink A2 milk or consume any products made with a2 milk if you have a milk allergy.

It may be better tolerated if you have an intolerance to regular cow’s milk, cheese, or other dairy products. It is NOT meant to be consumed if you have a dairy allergy.

If you’re sensitive to dairy, experimenting with A2 milk or lower-casein options like goat’s or sheep’s milk could be worth a try. You might find them easier to digest. But if they still don’t sit well with you, dairy-free alternatives such as oat milk or soy milk may be a better option.

No, it is not genetically modified.

It comes from cows that are selectively bred to produce a2 milk.. It is not made by genetically modifying regular milk.

It is available worldwide and in the U.S. at many large chain grocery stores.

Below are several U.S.-based options for purchasing A2 milk. If you’re looking for products in other locations, a quick online search can help you find options near you.

A2 dairy products aren’t limited to just milk—A2 cheese and yogurt are also available. As consumer demand grows, more products like ice cream, cottage cheese, sour cream, and kefir may soon hit the market.

1. A2 Milk Company—Their site has a product locator with over 29,000 locations across the U.S.
2. Alexandre Family Farm- Organic, regenerative, humane farm. Product locator on their site.
3. Bunker Hill– Online ordering
4. Azure Standard– A monthly food delivery cooperative service. Deliveries are across the U.S.
5. Miller’s Biodiversity Farm– A store or delivery locator is on their website.

Yes- an organic version is available.

Organic certification for milk is based on how cows are raised and what they eat. To be certified 100% organic, cows must be fed exclusively organic feed. This means that if an A2-producing cow is raised on an organic diet, she will produce organic A2 milk.

One notable brand offering organic A2 milk products is Alexandre Family Farms, known for its organic, regenerative products.

Yes, grass-fed a2 milk does exist, but it is harder to find

Similar to organic certification, grass-fed certification means cows are fed only grasses and legumes, with no grains.

The key benefit of grass-fed milk is its superior nutrient profile. It contains more omega-3 fatty acids, less omega-6, and higher levels of vitamin E. To get the most nutritional value, opt for whole milk when choosing grass-fed dairy. Kiss the cow farm sells a grass-fed version of A2 milk.

Cow’s milk allergy is the most common allergy in childhood.

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for infants up to six months, but this isn’t always possible or the goal for every mother.

Introducing hydrolyzed dairy may help reduce the risk of developing a cow’s milk allergy for some babies. If your child has trouble digesting standard cow’s milk formula, A2 milk formula could be an option worth exploring.

Always consult your child’s pediatrician to determine the best feeding choices for their needs. If your child has been diagnosed with a milk allergy, they should not drink a2 milk.

Yes – it costs about twice as much as regular milk.

A2 milk is typically twice as much as regular milk.  Non-organic A2 milk normally costs about the same as organic regular milk.

• If you include dairy in your diet, A2 milk may be worth trying.
• While research is still limited, some studies suggest A2 milk may cause less inflammation, leading to reduced discomfort and a lower chance of loose stools compared to regular milk.
• For some people, dairy—regardless of type or processing—can still be inflammatory. Others choose to avoid it for moral or ethical reasons. Ultimately, the decision to consume dairy is a personal one based on health and individual preferences.
• What you eat and drink has a powerful impact on your well-being—you deserve to feel your best!

This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for guidance specific to your needs.