Casein, the main protein in cow’s milk, is found in many processed foods and can cause allergies. Non-dairy products may still contain casein, and finding casein-free foods requires label reading and research. Plant-based foods are naturally casein-free, but some processed products may still contain it. In cases of medical necessity, a doctor can provide a list of acceptable foods. Specialty retailers offer casein-free options, but substitutes for dairy products are more expensive. Consult a nutritionist for severely restricted diets.
Casein is the main protein found in fresh cow’s milk and is often used in many processed foods, including cheese products, infant formula and coffee creamer. Casein salts, usually labeled caseinates, are water soluble and found in many other processed food products. For people with milk allergies, the culprit may be casein found in dairy products and some non-dairy products.
Many people with milk allergies are lactose intolerant, which is not the same thing. Lactose is the sugar in milk and casein is the protein. Casein-free foods may still contain lactose.
An individual with a milk allergy that would react to casein must learn to read the labels on almost everything. The word non-dairy does not mean that the product is a casein-free food. Other terms listed on a label that indicate it contains casein may be milk proteins, milk solids, caseinates, fortified proteins, and curds. Finding casein-free foods to incorporate into your diet takes some research and learning.
If you find that you are sensitive to casein, you can avoid dairy products altogether. Naturally casein-free foods are of plant origin. Fruits and vegetables are casein-free foods, and nuts can also be considered in the diet if there are no restrictions. However, some processed foods containing fruits, vegetables or nuts may not be casein-free foods. Casein is an excellent binding agent and can be used in creams, dressings and other processed products. It is also found in some chewing gums.
In some cases, such as kidney failure, it may be medically necessary to limit or eliminate protein from your diet. Casein-free foods are free from milk protein, but they may not be free from all protein. If you are on a restrictive diet for allergies or other medical reasons, your doctor will provide you with a list of acceptable foods.
Whether you choose to avoid certain foods simply for dietary reasons or if you must avoid foods for medical reasons, you can find casein-free foods at many retailers that specialize in organic foods, health foods, and other specialty items. You can find substitutes for many dairy products, but they are less popular and more expensive. In case of severely restricted diets, it is best to consult an experienced nutritionist.
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