A1 Milk vs A2 Milk: A Complete Comparison

 

Milk is a basic part of our Indian diet. From tea and coffee to curd, sweets, and ghee, milk is used in almost every household daily. However, in recent years, many people have begun to hear terms like A1 milk and A2 milk. Some sellers say A2 milk is better for health, while others say there is not much difference. Due to this confusion, many people are uncertain about which milk to choose. In this article, we will clearly explain what A1 and A2 milk are, how they are different, which one is better for health, which animals produce them, and which milk should be preferred by Indian families. 

The topic Should be covered

1. What is A1 Milk?
2. What is A2 Milk?
3. A1 Milk vs A2 Milk – Key Differences
4. Health Effects of A1 and A2 Milk
5. Scientific View: What Do Studies Say?
6. Which Milk is Better – A1 or A2?
7. Why is A2 Milk Expensive?
8. How to Identify Real A2 Milk?
9. Cultural and Traditional Importance of A2 Milk in India
10. How to Shift from A1 to A2 Milk?

What is A1 Milk?

A1 milk is a type of milk that contains a protein called A1 beta-casein. It is commonly found in the milk of exotic or foreign breeds of cows, like:

• Holstein Friesian

• Jersey

• Ayrshire

These breeds are mostly found in commercial dairy farms where milk production is high. A1 beta-casein is a type of casein protein, and when it is digested in the human body, it produces a peptide called BCM-7 (Beta-casomorphin-7).

This peptide has been linked to some health issues (explained in detail later), and that’s why A1 milk is considered less healthy by some health experts.

 

What is A2 Milk?

A2 milk contains a different form of the same protein, called A2 beta-casein, which does not produce BCM-7 during digestion. This milk is naturally found in Indian native cow breeds, such as:

• Gir

• Sahiwal

• Tharparkar

• Red Sindhi

• Rathi

These cows are mostly reared in rural and semi-urban parts of India. Their milk is often called Desi Cow Milk or Gir Cow Milk and is considered easier to digest and healthier, especially for children and elderly people.

A1 Milk vs A2 Milk – Key Differences

Here is a simple and clear comparison between A1 and A2 milk:

Health Effects of A1 and A2 Milk

A1 Milk and Health Concerns:

Studies have shown that BCM-7, which is released during the digestion of A1 milk, may lead to:

• Digestive issues: Caused bloating, gas, and stomach pain in some individuals
• Lactose Intolerance confusion: Many people who think they are lactose intolerant may actually be reacting to the A1 protein
• Inflammation: Some research links BCM-7 to inflammatory responses in the body
• Risk of Type 1 Diabetes and Heart Disease: Limited studies have found associations, but more research is needed to confirm

A2 Milk and Health Benefits:

• Easier to digest: A2 beta-casein is gentle on the stomach
• Better for children and elderly: People with weaker digestion tolerate it better
• Supports immunity: Native cows’ milk is said to contain more antioxidants and nutrients
• Traditional use in Ayurveda: A2 milk from desi cows is considered Satvik (pure) in Ayurveda, and is used in Panchgavya and other medicines
  

 

Scientific View: What Do Studies Say?

Some research studies from Australia, New Zealand, and India have shown that A2 milk causes fewer digestive issues than A1 milk.

 

A study published in the National Library of Medicine United States (Link)

 

• Less bloating
• Reduced abdominal pain
• Fewer digestive complaints
  

However, scientists also say that more large-scale research is needed to make a final conclusion. However based on current findings, A2 milk seems to be the safer and healthier option, especially for sensitive groups.

Which Milk is Better – A1 or A2?

From the above points, we can say that A2 milk is better for most people because:

• It is easy to digest
• Does not cause allergic reactions or stomach problems
• Comes from Indian native breeds that are more suitable for our climate and traditional practices
  

A1 milk is not harmful to everyone. Many people drink A1 milk regularly without any issues. However, those who have digestion issues, children, elderly people, and health-conscious families may benefit more from switching to A2 milk.

Why is A2 Milk Expensive?

The price of A2 milk is generally higher due to:

• Lower milk yield of desi cows – They give 8 to 12 litres per day compared to 20+ litres from foreign breeds
• Cost of rearing native cows – These cows need special care and natural feed
• Limited production – Only a few farms produce pure A2 milk
• Manual milking and traditional methods – Many farmers use the Bilona method or hand milking
  

But people who are willing to pay a little extra for better health often prefer A2 milk despite the cost.

How to Identify Real A2 Milk?

Many brands and farms sell A2 milk. But to ensure you are getting pure A2 milk:

• Know the breed: Ask the seller about the cow breed (Gir, Sahiwal, etc.)
• Look for lab testing: Some farms provide A2 beta-casein certification from authorised labs
• Buy from trusted local farmers: Farmers who rear native breeds are more likely to sell genuine A2 milk
• Observe the milk: A2 milk is usually thicker, has yellowish cream, and gives a pleasant aroma when boiled

Cultural and Traditional Importance of A2 Milk in India

In Indian culture, the cow is respected and worshipped. In the olden days, people only consumed milk from native cows like Gir and Sahiwal. Our ancestors used milk, curd, ghee, butter, and buttermilk from these cows in rituals, festivals, and daily food.

Ayurveda also mentions the health benefits of desi cow milk and ghee. It is said to balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and strengthen Ojas (immunity). That is why A2 milk is also considered Satvik and used in temples and Panchamrit.

How to Shift from A1 to A2 Milk?

If you plan to shift to A2 milk:

1. Start gradually – Mix A2 and A1 milk initially and slowly increase A2 portion
2. Buy from a nearby source – Look for local farmers or verified brands
3. Store properly – A2 milk is fresh and may spoil quickly. Boil it and refrigerate
4. Try A2 ghee and curd too – Many farms also offer Bilona A2 ghee and homemade curd

Conclusion: A2 Milk is a Healthier and Traditional Choice

In today’s time, when health problems like acidity, bloating, and allergies are rising, it is important to look at what we are eating and drinking. Milk is a daily part of our food, and choosing the right type makes a big difference.

A2 milk, which comes from Indian native cows, is closer to what our ancestors consumed. It is more natural, easier to digest, and has fewer chances of side effects. Though it may be a little costly, the health benefits are worth it.

If you are a health-conscious consumer or someone looking for traditional and pure food, A2 milk is a better choice for your family.