Hyderabad: The distinction between A1 and A2 milk has sparked an ongoing debate in the health community.

The debate about the distinction between the two types of milk became particularly heated after the FSSAI recently asked manufacturers and traders to remove all unsubstantiated claims about A1 and A2 milk types.

Which type of milk is easier to digest?

Milk types A1 and A2 differ in their content of beta-casein protein, which is thought to affect digestion and may have effects on general health.

Milk containing A1 beta-casein, as is common in northern European breeds such as Holsteins and Ayrshires, is digested to produce a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7).

Some studies have suggested that BCM-7 may contribute to digestive problems and has even been linked to more serious health problems such as type 1 diabetes and heart disease.

A2 milk from breeds such as Guernsey and Jersey cows, on the other hand, does not produce BCM-7 during digestion. Proponents argue that this makes A2 milk easier to digest, especially for people who have trouble digesting regular milk.

Despite these claims, however, the scientific consensus on the benefits of A2 milk remains inconclusive. While some research has suggested that A2 milk may lead to fewer digestive problems, the evidence is not yet solid enough to draw definitive conclusions.

What is beta-casein protein?

Beta-casein is a type of protein found in cow’s milk and exists in several genetic variants, mainly A1 and A2. The difference between these two types lies in their amino acid structure, which affects how they are digested in the human body.

A1 beta-casein is broken down into BCM-7 during digestion, a peptide that has been linked to various health problems. A2 beta-casein, on the other hand, does not produce BCM-7, leading to claims that it is a healthier alternative.

A1 beta-casein is more common in the milk of breeds such as Holstein, Ayrshire and British Shorthorn cows, which originate from northern Europe. In contrast, A2 beta-casein is more common in the milk of breeds such as Guernsey, Jersey and Charolais cows, which are native to the Channel Islands and southern France.

FSSAI Guideline on A1 and A2 Claims

In response to confusion over the pros and cons of both types of milk and the lack of regulatory recognition of the distinction between A1 and A2, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a directive on August 22 directing food companies and e-commerce platforms to remove all claims about A1 and A2 milk from their packaging and websites.

The FSSAI pointed out that such claims were not in line with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, as the current provisions do not differentiate between A1 and A2 milk.

The FSSAI’s decision follows a thorough review which concluded that the distinction between A1 and A2 milk, while scientifically plausible, is not sufficiently substantiated to justify its use in marketing. The policy requires companies to use up their pre-printed labels within six months, with no possibility of extension. E-commerce platforms are also required to immediately remove any references to A1 and A2 milk from their listings.

Parag Milk Foods Chairman Devendra Shah welcomed the FSSAI’s decision and described it as a positive step towards consumer protection.

“A1 and A2 are categories that were developed as a marketing gimmick. It is important that we eliminate misleading claims that can misinform consumers,” he said. Shah also noted that this trend is declining globally, reinforcing the FSSAI’s clarification on the matter.

Doctors in Hyderabad welcome FSSAI guidelines

Nutritionist Aparna Reddy commented, “The debate around A1 and A2 milk has often overshadowed the broader issue of individual nutritional tolerance. This decision by the FSSAI helps to avoid potential confusion and enables consumers to make more informed choices based on overall nutritional content rather than advertising claims.”

Dr Shalini Verma, another nutritionist in the city, added, “It is important to focus on a balanced diet rather than being seduced by unverified claims. The FSSAI’s order is a positive step to ensure that consumers are not misled by complex and sometimes dubious distinctions.”

“This move aims to protect consumers from potentially misleading information and emphasize the importance of clear and accurate product labeling. Consumers should focus on the overall nutritional content of milk and other foods and make informed choices based on their individual health needs rather than marketing-driven distinctions,” said Shalini Pai, a Hyderabad-based nutritionist.