A1 vs A2 Milk: FSSAI orders removal of misleading labels amid public confusion

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

The debate around the distinction between the two types has gained particular prominence after FSSAI recently ordered producers and distributors to remove any unsubstantiated claims about A1 and A2 milk types.

Which type of milk is easier to digest?

A1 and A2 types of milk differ in their beta-casein protein content, which is thought to influence digestion and potentially impact overall health.

Milk containing A1 beta-casein, common in breeds from Northern Europe like Holsteins and Ayrshires, is digested to produce a peptide known as beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7).

Some studies suggested that BCM-7 might contribute to digestive discomfort and has even been linked to more serious health concerns, such as Type 1 diabetes and heart disease.

On the other hand, A2 milk, derived from breeds like Guernsey and Jersey cows, does not produce BCM-7 during digestion. Proponents argue that this makes A2 milk easier to digest, particularly for individuals who experience discomfort with regular milk.

However, despite these claims, scientific consensus on the benefits of A2 milk remains inconclusive. While some research indicated that A2 milk may lead to fewer digestive issues, the evidence is not yet robust enough to draw definitive conclusions.

What is beta-casein protein?

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

A1 beta-casein, when digested, breaks down into BCM-7, a peptide that has been linked to various health issues. Conversely, A2 beta-casein does not produce BCM-7, leading to claims that it is a healthier option.

A1 beta-casein is more prevalent in milk from breeds such as Holstein, Ayrshire, and British Shorthorn cows, which originate from Northern Europe. In contrast, A2 beta-casein is more commonly found in milk from breeds like Guernsey, Jersey, and Charolais cows, which are native to the Channel Islands and Southern France.

FSSAI’s directive on A1 and A2 claims

In response to the confusion about the merits and demerits of both types of milk and the lack of regulatory recognition for A1 and A2 distinctions, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a directive on August 22 instructing food businesses and e-commerce platforms to remove any claims related to A1 and A2 milk from their packaging and websites.

The FSSAI pointed out that such claims do not comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, as current regulations do not recognise the distinction between A1 and A2 milk.

The FSSAI’s decision comes after a thorough review, which found that the differentiation between A1 and A2 milk, while scientifically plausible, has not been substantiated enough to justify its use in marketing. The directive mandated that companies must exhaust their pre-printed labels within six months, with no extensions allowed. E-commerce platforms are also required to promptly remove any references to A1 and A2 milk from their listings.

Parag Milk Foods chairman, Devendra Shah, welcomed the FSSAI’s decision, calling it a positive step toward consumer protection.

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

Hyderabad doctors welcome FSSAI’s directive

Dietitian Aparna Reddy commented, “The debate over A1 and A2 milk has often overshadowed the broader issue of individual dietary tolerance. This decision by the FSSAI helps eliminate potential confusion, allowing consumers to make more informed choices based on overall nutritional content rather than marketing claims.”

Dr Shalini Verma, another nutrition consultant in the city, added, “It’s essential to focus on a balanced diet rather than getting caught up in unverified claims. The FSSAI’s order is a positive step towards ensuring that consumers are not misled by complex and sometimes dubious distinctions.”

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