Is milk in India A1 or A2?

December 13, 2025 •

4 min read

While Western dairy cows often produce a mix of A1 and A2 beta-casein, indigenous Indian breeds like Gir and Sahiwal predominantly produce only A2 beta-casein. This critical protein difference influences how milk is digested and has sparked a nationwide debate about milk purity and health benefits.

Quick Summary

Indigenous Indian cow breeds primarily produce A2 milk, rich in A2 beta-casein protein, while milk from crossbred or foreign cows can contain both A1 and A2 proteins. The A2 protein is considered easier to digest and less likely to cause discomfort for sensitive individuals due to its different structure.

Key Points

Indian Breeds are A2: Indigenous Indian cows like Gir and Sahiwal primarily produce milk with the A2 beta-casein protein.
Market Milk is a Mix: Most commercially available milk in India is a blend of milk from indigenous (A2) and crossbred (A1/A2) cows.
A2 Milk is Easier to Digest: Due to its protein structure, A2 milk does not release the BCM-7 peptide upon digestion, leading to fewer digestive issues for sensitive individuals.
Look for Certified Labels: Consumers should check for '100% A2 Certified' labels and transparency regarding the source breed and lab testing to ensure authenticity.
Higher Price for Purity: Pure A2 milk from indigenous breeds is typically more expensive than regular milk because native cows have a lower milk yield.
Cultural Roots in Ayurveda: A2 milk from Desi cows is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and Ayurveda, where it is valued for its superior nutritional quality.

Unpacking the A1 and A2 Milk Distinction

Milk contains various proteins, with casein making up about 80% of its total protein content. Beta-casein is the second most common form of casein, and it exists in several variants, most notably A1 and A2. The key difference lies in a single amino acid at position 67 of the protein chain. A1 milk has a histidine at this position, whereas A2 milk has a proline, and this seemingly small difference has a significant impact on how the protein is digested.

During digestion, A1 beta-casein can release a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). Some studies suggest BCM-7 can contribute to digestive discomfort, bloating, and other issues for certain people. The proline in A2 beta-casein, however, prevents the release of BCM-7, making it easier for many to digest.

The Indian Dairy Landscape: A2 is Predominant

Traditionally, indigenous Indian cow breeds are known for producing A2 milk. These Desi breeds, such as Gir, Sahiwal, Rathi, and Red Sindhi, have a genetic makeup that results in milk containing only the A2 beta-casein protein. This has been part of India's cultural and agricultural heritage for centuries.

However, India's modern dairy industry is more complex. The large-scale introduction of crossbred and high-yielding foreign breeds, such as Holstein Friesian, has increased the proportion of A1 milk in the general supply. Milk from these breeds contains a mix of both A1 and A2 proteins. As a result, the milk most commonly available in supermarkets is a blend, rather than pure A2, unless specifically labeled and certified as A2 milk.

Health and Digestive Benefits of A2 Milk

For many, the appeal of A2 milk is its perceived health benefits, particularly concerning digestion. While A2 milk contains the same amount of lactose as A1 milk, its easier-to-digest protein structure helps mitigate symptoms often mistaken for lactose intolerance, like bloating and gas.

Potential health benefits associated with A2 milk:

Easier Digestion: For individuals with milk sensitivities, the absence of BCM-7 can lead to fewer digestive issues.
Rich Nutrient Profile: Indigenous Desi cow milk, often containing high levels of A2 protein, is naturally rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, B12, calcium, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Immunity Support: Some studies suggest that the rich nutritional profile and antioxidants can support immune function.
Traditional Value: In India, milk from indigenous breeds is often valued in Ayurveda for its health-enhancing properties.

The A1 vs A2 Milk Comparison


Feature	A1 Milk (Crossbred/Foreign Cows)	A2 Milk (Indigenous/Desi Cows)
Beta-Casein Protein	Contains a mix of A1 and A2 beta-casein.	Contains only A2 beta-casein.
Digestion	Can release BCM-7 peptide during digestion, potentially causing discomfort for sensitive individuals.	Does not release BCM-7, often making it easier on the stomach.
Sourcing	Typically from high-yield, crossbred European breeds like Holstein Friesian.	Sourced from native Indian breeds such as Gir, Sahiwal, and Red Sindhi.
Digestive Comfort	Linked by some studies to potential digestive issues and bloating.	Widely considered gentle on the stomach and good for milk sensitivities.
Cultural Context	Represents a shift towards commercial, high-volume dairy farming.	Rooted in traditional Indian farming practices and Ayurveda.
Market Price	Generally more affordable due to higher milk yield.	Often premium-priced due to lower yield from indigenous breeds.

The Commercial A2 Milk Market in India

The rising consumer awareness and demand for healthier, traditionally-sourced food have fueled the growth of the A2 milk market in India. A number of specialized dairy brands now focus exclusively on sourcing and distributing A2 milk, often from indigenous breeds. These brands emphasize purity, traceability, and ethical farming practices to build consumer trust. To ensure authenticity, many companies provide lab-tested certification for their products.

Despite the clear marketing, some challenges exist. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has noted the lack of conclusive scientific evidence justifying separate regulatory standards for A1 and A2 milk, though this has not stopped its market growth. The premium price of A2 milk is a key differentiator, driven by the lower milk yield of indigenous cows compared to high-producing exotic breeds.

How to Identify and Choose A2 Milk

Since taste and appearance are not reliable indicators, identifying true A2 milk requires careful attention. Consumers should:

Check the Label: Look for explicit labeling that confirms the milk is 100% A2 protein.
Know the Source: Reputable brands will proudly state the cow breeds, such as Gir or Sahiwal, and mention their sourcing and processing practices.
Seek Certification: Many genuine A2 milk brands display lab certification on their websites or upon request to verify their claims.
Support Local Farms: Buying directly from boutique farms that specialize in indigenous cattle breeds can ensure authenticity.

Conclusion: A Shift Towards Health-Conscious Choices

The question of whether milk in India is A1 or A2 does not have a single answer; it is a blend of both, with indigenous breeds primarily contributing A2 and crossbreds producing a mix. The increasing popularity of A2 milk reflects a growing consumer movement towards natural, traditional foods and a desire for products that are gentler on the digestive system. While the scientific debate continues regarding long-term health benefits, the perceived digestive comfort is a significant factor for many. By understanding the origins and characteristics of their milk, Indian consumers can make informed choices that align with their health and wellness goals. The market for pure A2 milk will likely continue to grow as more families prioritize this traditional dairy product. For a deeper scientific perspective on the beta-casein debate, consider consulting studies published by institutions like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference is the type of beta-casein protein. A1 milk contains both A1 and A2 protein variants, while pure A2 milk contains only the A2 variant, which is considered easier to digest for many people.

Indigenous or 'Desi' Indian breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Red Sindhi are known to produce milk that is exclusively A2. However, milk from foreign and crossbred cows, which are also part of India's dairy herd, contains A1 protein.

A2 milk contains the same amount of lactose as regular milk and is not suitable for individuals with a diagnosed lactose allergy or intolerance. However, some people with general dairy sensitivity may find A2 milk easier to digest due to the different protein structure.

To ensure authenticity, look for brands that offer 100% A2 milk certification, transparent sourcing from indigenous breeds, and are willing to provide lab test reports. Simply labeling as 'organic' is not enough.

A2 milk is pricier primarily because indigenous Indian cow breeds naturally produce a lower volume of milk compared to the high-yield foreign breeds that produce A1 milk, driving up production costs.

BCM-7 is a peptide released when the A1 beta-casein protein is digested. Some research suggests it can cause digestive discomfort and inflammation, which is why it is often cited in the debate around A1 milk.

Authentic A2 Desi Cow Milk often has a naturally golden tinge due to beta-carotene and a slightly sweeter, creamier taste. However, these sensory attributes are not a reliable way to differentiate it from A1 milk, and lab testing is required for confirmation.