Does the UK have A2 milk? What you need to know in 2025

In October 2019, The a2 Milk Company discontinued its products in the UK, leading many to believe that A2 milk was no longer available. However, a growing number of independent, raw milk producers and online farm shops now offer A2 milk across the country, making it still possible to find for those who prefer it.

Quick Summary

The A2 Milk Company exited the UK market in 2019, but A2 milk remains available through independent raw milk suppliers, often from heritage cow breeds like Jersey and Guernsey, with options for online ordering or direct farm collection.

Key Points

• Availability has shifted: A2 milk is no longer in UK supermarkets but is available from independent farms and online retailers.

• A2 Milk Company withdrew: The primary brand, The a2 Milk Company, exited the UK market in October 2019 due to market challenges.

• Available through local sources: Consumers can find fresh A2 milk from smaller, specialized farms, often raw and from specific cow breeds.

• Potential digestive benefits: A2 milk may be easier to digest for some individuals sensitive to conventional milk's A1 protein.

• Not lactose-free: A2 milk contains lactose, so it is not suitable for people with medically diagnosed lactose intolerance or a cow's milk protein allergy.

• Breeds matter: Certain breeds, like Jersey and Guernsey cows, are more likely to produce milk containing only the A2 protein.

Does the UK have A2 milk? The current situation

Many consumers have been left in a state of confusion regarding the availability of A2 milk in the UK. The confusion stems from a significant market shift when The a2 Milk Company officially withdrew from the UK retail market in October 2019. Citing challenging market conditions and the decision to focus on more profitable markets like Australia and China, the company removed its premium-priced products from major supermarkets.

This departure meant that A2 milk disappeared from the shelves of mainstream grocery retailers like ASDA, Sainsbury's, and Tesco. For years, this was the primary, and for many, the only, source of A2 milk they knew of. However, the story didn't end there. The market has since been filled by a new wave of small-scale, independent producers. These are typically local farms specialising in raw milk from herds selected for their A2 protein status, including breeds like Jersey and Guernsey.

These smaller suppliers operate differently, selling directly to the public through online stores, farm shops, and sometimes subscription services. This means that while A2 milk is no longer a mainstream supermarket product, it is still very much available to those who know where to look.

How to find A2 milk from independent suppliers in the UK

For those seeking A2 milk, the best approach is to move beyond the traditional supermarket. Here's how to get started:

• Search online farm directories: Websites like GetRawMilk.com list independent farms and dairies across the UK that offer A2 raw milk, often with details on whether they offer delivery or collection.
• Explore farm shops and online stores: Many independent farms run their own e-commerce platforms. For example, Hill Farm Real Food and Old Hall Farm are known to sell A2 milk and dairy products online. Hook & Son also offers online ordering with nationwide delivery.
• Check local farmers' markets: Your local farmers' market may host a dairy producer who offers A2 milk. This is a great way to support local agriculture and ask questions directly about their farming practices.
• Consider raw milk specialists: Raw milk has a dedicated market in the UK, and many producers of raw milk from specific breeds, like Jersey or Guernsey, also produce A2 milk, as these breeds are known for naturally producing higher levels of A2 protein.

The science behind A1 vs. A2 milk

To understand why some people actively seek out A2 milk, it helps to know the difference between the two main types of beta-casein protein found in cow's milk: A1 and A2.

This difference comes down to a single amino acid in the protein chain.

When digested, the A1 beta-casein protein can release a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). BCM-7 has been linked in some studies to symptoms of digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and stomach pain, in some individuals. The A2 beta-casein protein, on the other hand, is believed to break down differently and does not release BCM-7. For some people, this difference is significant enough to notice a reduction in digestive issues when they switch from conventional milk (which contains both A1 and A2 protein) to A2-only milk. It's crucial to note that A2 milk is not lactose-free and is not a solution for medically diagnosed lactose intolerance or cow's milk allergy.

Comparison Table: A1 vs. A2 Milk

Feature	A1 Milk	A2 Milk
Protein Type	Contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins.	Contains only A2 beta-casein protein.
Digestion	Can release BCM-7 peptide, linked to digestive discomfort in some.	Does not release BCM-7 peptide, potentially easier to digest for sensitive individuals.
Common Source	Most conventional dairy herds, particularly those of North European origin like Holsteins.	Specific dairy herds, often heritage breeds like Jerseys and Guernseys.
Availability	Widely available in all supermarkets in the UK.	Available primarily through independent farms, online retailers, and farm shops in the UK.
Lactose Content	Contains lactose.	Contains lactose.
Cost	Generally standard market price.	Often premium priced due to specialized farming practices.

Conclusion: Finding your A2 milk in the post-supermarket era

Although The a2 Milk Company’s branded products have departed from UK supermarkets, A2 milk is still very much accessible to UK consumers. The landscape has simply shifted from a single, dominant brand to a network of smaller, dedicated farms and online retailers. This transition means a more direct farm-to-consumer relationship, offering transparency and supporting local producers. For those who experience mild digestive discomfort with conventional milk but are not lactose intolerant, exploring these independent A2 milk options is a viable way to continue enjoying dairy. As always, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, especially concerning allergies or intolerances.

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Find independent UK A2 milk suppliers on GetRawMilk.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A2 milk available in UK supermarkets like ASDA or Tesco?

No, A2 milk from The a2 Milk Company was discontinued in UK supermarkets in 2019. It is no longer available in major retail chains.

Where can I buy A2 milk in the UK now?

You can purchase A2 milk from independent producers, farm shops, and online retailers that specialize in raw dairy. Several small farms offer nationwide delivery or local collection options.

What is the difference between A1 and A2 milk?

A1 and A2 refer to variants of beta-casein protein. The A1 protein, found in most conventional milk, is linked to digestive discomfort for some people, while A2 milk contains only the A2 protein, which is believed to be easier to digest.

Is A2 milk suitable for lactose intolerant individuals?

No. A2 milk contains the same amount of lactose as regular cow's milk. It is not suitable for those with medically diagnosed lactose intolerance or a cow's milk protein allergy, though some with mild sensitivity to the A1 protein may find it easier to digest.

Why did The a2 Milk Company leave the UK?

The company cited difficult 'category conditions' and the premium price point in a market dominated by cheaper milk and rising plant-based alternatives. They opted to focus on more successful markets internationally.

Do I have to buy raw A2 milk, or can I find pasteurised?

Most of the independent A2 milk available in the UK is raw milk, often sold by small, specialist farms. However, some online retailers or larger independent farms may offer pasteurised options. It is important to check the product description from the supplier.

Are specific cow breeds more likely to produce A2 milk?

Yes, some heritage breeds like Jersey and Guernsey cows are genetically more prone to produce milk containing only the A2 protein. Many independent UK farmers offering A2 milk specifically keep these breeds.