by A2 milk comes from cows that produce only the A2 type of beta-casein protein in their milk, rather than the more common A1/A2 mixed type. While both A1 and A2 milk have been consumed for thousands of years, research increasingly shows benefits for human health from drinking it as opposed to regular milk which contains a mix of A1 and A2 proteins. This is because the different proteins are broken down in the digestive system differently.
Discovery Of The Genetic Variants
In the early 1990s, researchers discovered that dairy cows could have one of two genetic variants that affect the type of beta-casein protein produced in their milk. These were labelled A1 and A2. It was found that most dairy cows in the western world produced milk containing both A1 and A2 beta-casein variants due to crossbreeding. However, some indigenous cattle breeds like Jersey and Guernsey cows predominantly produce only the A2 milk protein variant. This led scientists to investigate whether the different genetic variants had implications for human health.
Potential Impacts On Digestion And Health
Subsequent research showed that the A1 beta-casein protein breaks down in the digestion system into a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7), which may induce immune responses in some people and gastrointestinal problems. On the other hand, the A2 protein variant does not produce this BCM-7 peptide during digestion. As a result, some studies have associated A1 milk consumption with increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and autism. However, other research is still ongoing and the links are not fully proven. Despite this, demand has increased for A2 branded milks with purported additional health benefits.
Benefits Reported For Consumers
Several studies have indicated potential benefits associated with drinking it instead of regular milk containing both A1 and A2 proteins. A large cohort study found lower risk of heart disease and diabetes in populations traditionally consuming only A2 milk. A review article noted that infants fed A1-free infant formula experienced less colic and fewer gastrointestinal issues. Some autism researchers propose that avoiding A1 milk proteins early in life could help prevent autoimmune reactions implicated in autism development. There are also anecdotal reports of people noticing reduced bloating, inflammation and lactose intolerance symptoms after switching to A2 only milk. However, as with any novel health claims, more robust evidence is still needed before conclusions are drawn.
Production And Pricing
To guarantee an A2-only milk, dairy cows producing milk must be genotyped to verify the presence of only the desired genetic variant. Their offspring are then selected to maintain the A2-only bloodline. Regular testing also ensures no contamination from other cows. Based on current production levels in Australia and New Zealand, A2 milk costs more due to increased farming and testing expenses. However, proponents argue this added cost is minimal compared to potential healthcare savings if health claims are substantiated. It remains a premium product often commanding a 20-30% price premium over regular milk. As demand grows globally, more dairy cooperatives are converting herds to A2 production bringing associated costs down.
Marketing And Regulation
With early scientific evidence supporting health claims, it brands have emerged globally promoting marketed health benefits. In Australia and New Zealand, the two largest A2 milk producing regions, the A2 Corporation has trademarked the brand name. Their branded milk physically labels A2 content and potential associated health effects. Other dairy companies also produce and market generic A2-labelled milks. milk regulatory bodies in different countries take varying stances on allowed marketing claims. In most regions, less scientifically certain digestive and immune-related claims must be qualified that evidence is preliminary. Health claims directly linking it to reduced chronic disease risk are prohibited until substantiated by further research.
Ongoing Research Assessing Health Impacts
Continued research aims to provide conclusive evidence regarding effects of consuming A1 versus A2 milk. Studies are examining clinical outcomes and biomarkers in various populations. One ongoing multi-year study involves daily A1/A2 milk intake monitoring impacts on gut hormones, inflammation and cardiovascular risk factors in healthy adults. A large cohort study is collecting long-term health outcomes data from regions with traditional A1 versus A2 milk diets. Infant nutrition intervention studies also compare developmental outcomes among infants fed A1 versus A2 formula milks. Many such studies will help elucidate potential mechanisms and separate proven health impacts from uncertain claims as research progresses. At present there are more questions than definitive answers, but findings have implications for future global milk production and consumption patterns.
Future Directions For The Industry
As scientific understanding progresses, consumer demand and production of it is likely to continue growing if health benefits are substantiated. Dairy producers are already increasing genetic testing and selection pressures to boost A2 cow herd ratios. More extensive marketing of its health properties will also expand consumer awareness and product trial. Regulatory endorsement of scientifically proven claims could see it gaining traction as a premium “wellness” dairy product. Challenges remain around global standardization of production practices, testing protocols and marketing policies. Addressing these issues cohesively will support future industry expansion geared towards providing accessible nutritious milk tailored to optimal human health.
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Priya Pandey
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