The A2 Difference
Centuries ago, milk contained only A2 proteins and came from cows with A2 genetics. Over time, a natural genetic variation introduced the A1 protein, which became widespread in many dairy cows. Today, most milk available in stores contains both A1 and A2 proteins. However, some individuals experience difficulty digesting A1 proteins, making A2 protein milk a preferred choice for easier digestion.

Regular milk in Canada comes from Holstein cows that produce a mixture of A1 and A2 proteins. The type of milk depends on the cow’s genetics—A1 cows produce A1 milk, while A2 cows produce A2 protein milk. Many people struggle to digest regular milk but may not realize the cause, often assuming they are lactose intolerant. But what if it’s not the lactose?
While a small percentage of Canadians are truly lactose intolerant, most are not. If you don’t have lactose intolerance or a milk protein allergy, your digestive discomfort may be linked to the A1 proteins in milk. Symptoms can mimic lactose intolerance, leading to bloating, gas, and digestive issues.
Milk that contains only A2 proteins is naturally free of A1 proteins, making it a potential alternative for those who experience discomfort with regular milk.