An article on the Best Food Facts website caught our attention recently: ‘A1 versus A2 milk: what’s the difference?’ Good question!

According to producers and supporters of A2 milk, it’s easier to digest and causes fewer gastrointestinal issues.

But have the claims been proven? In an April 2018 article in The Wall Street Journal it was reported that, “Supporters of A2 milk contend it is the A1 protein that causes indigestion for many people, a problem that lactose-free milk won’t solve. Skeptics say there hasn’t been enough independent research to show there is any real benefit to A2 milk.”

Best Food Facts asked Dr Ann Macrina from Penn State University for her insights: “Early studies showed that mice and rats fed A1 milk had more gastrointestinal inflammation than those fed A2 milk. I’m aware of only a few studies involving humans and some indicate A2 milk consumption resulted in lower levels of intestinal gurgling, gas, bloating, and abdominal pain in some people. These studies represent a good start and show promising results for A2 milk. Limitations of the current research include using a small number of subjects, results based on consumption of one serving of milk, or multiple servings over a couple of weeks. Further research is needed before making broad recommendations,” Dr Macrina said.

For the record, there is no risk in trying A2 milk, only cost considerations as A2 milk tends to be more expensive.

To read the full article, click here: https://www.bestfoodfacts.org/a1-versus-a2-milk-whats-the-difference/