Is Organic Milk Easier on the Stomach? Understanding the Digestive Difference

November 10, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 65% of the global adult population has a reduced ability to digest lactose. For many with digestive issues, this statistic raises an important question: is organic milk easier on the stomach than its conventional counterpart? The answer involves looking beyond just lactose to consider protein types and farming practices.

Quick Summary

The debate over organic versus conventional milk regarding digestive comfort is complex. While both contain lactose, differences in proteins (specifically A1 vs. A2 beta-casein) and processing methods can influence how the body responds. Organic milk may also have beneficial fatty acids and fewer synthetic additives, which some individuals report aid digestion.

Key Points

Not all milk is created equal: While organic milk still contains lactose, differences in farming practices, protein types, and processing can affect digestibility for sensitive individuals.
A1 vs. A2 protein matters: The type of beta-casein protein (A1 or A2) can influence digestive comfort. Some people find A2 milk, available from certain organic brands, easier on their stomach.
Fewer additives can mean less irritation: Organic milk is free from synthetic hormones and antibiotics, which some sensitive individuals prefer to avoid for better gut health.
Digestive issues may still be lactose-related: True lactose intolerance is due to a lack of the lactase enzyme. In this case, standard organic milk won't solve the problem, and a lactose-free version is necessary.
Pasture-raised for better fatty acids: Cows that graze on pasture, a requirement for organic certification, produce milk higher in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, which can support gut health.
Test your own tolerance: The best approach is to observe your body's reaction to different milk types, such as regular organic, A2 organic, or lactose-free organic, to find what works best for you.

What is in Organic Milk that Could Make a Difference?

While organic milk is not inherently lactose-free, several factors differentiate it from conventional milk, which may contribute to a more comfortable experience for those with mild sensitivities. These distinctions come from the entire farm-to-table process, including the cow's diet, treatment, and milk processing methods.

The Impact of Beta-Casein Proteins (A1 vs. A2)

One of the most discussed factors influencing digestibility is the type of beta-casein protein present in milk.

A1 Beta-Casein: Found predominantly in milk from common breeds like Holstein and Friesian, this protein breaks down into a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) during digestion. For some, BCM-7 can cause digestive discomfort, including bloating and loose stools.
A2 Beta-Casein: Derived from breeds such as Jersey and Guernsey, A2 milk does not produce the same BCM-7 peptide. Some individuals who experience sensitivity to conventional milk find that A2 milk is easier to digest.

It is important to note that while organic milk does not guarantee A2 proteins, some organic brands specifically sell A2 milk from breeds that naturally produce it. Consumers sensitive to A1 protein should look for milk explicitly labeled as A2.

The Role of Farming Practices

Organic dairy farming operates under strict regulations that influence the final product. Cows on organic farms often have more time grazing on pasture, and their feed is free from synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and GMOs.

This approach has several potential digestive benefits:

Omega-3s: Pasture-fed cows produce milk with a more favorable omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio. Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the digestive tract.
Fewer Additives: The absence of synthetic hormones, antibiotics, and pesticide residues in organic milk may lead to a cleaner product that is less irritating to a sensitive gut.

Processing Methods

Conventional milk is often pasteurized using Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) methods, which can affect the milk's proteins and enzymes. Some organic brands may use different, lower-temperature pasteurization techniques, which anecdotally some people find easier on their systems. Non-homogenized milk, where the cream naturally rises to the top, is also an option that some find more digestible, and this is more common among smaller organic producers.

Comparison: Organic vs. Conventional Milk for Digestion


Feature	Organic Milk	Conventional Milk
Beta-Casein Protein	Varies (may contain A1 and/or A2). Dedicated 'A2' organic options exist.	Varies (primarily contains A1), which may form BCM-7 during digestion.
Antibiotics & Hormones	Prohibits synthetic hormones and routine antibiotic use.	May contain residues of synthetic hormones and antibiotics.
Pesticide Residues	Minimal to no residues due to organic feed and pasture standards.	May contain trace amounts of pesticides from conventional feed sources.
Omega-3 Content	Generally higher levels due to pasture-based diets.	Typically lower levels due to grain-heavy diets.
Processing	Can be UHT or lower-temp pasteurized; non-homogenized options more available.	Often UHT pasteurized and homogenized for a uniform, longer-lasting product.
Inflammatory Potential	Potentially lower due to higher omega-3s and fewer synthetic additives.	Potentially higher for sensitive individuals due to A1 protein and other factors.

What if the problem is true lactose intolerance?

It's crucial to distinguish between a mild dairy sensitivity and true lactose intolerance. A person with true lactose intolerance lacks or has very low levels of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary to break down lactose. In such cases, switching from conventional to organic milk (if it still contains lactose) will likely not resolve the digestive distress. The lactose content in both conventional and standard organic milk is generally similar.

For those with diagnosed lactose intolerance, the best option is a lactose-free milk product. Many organic brands now offer organic lactose-free milk, where the lactase enzyme has been added to pre-digest the lactose. This allows individuals to enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of milk without the associated digestive discomfort.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Stomach

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether organic milk is easier on the stomach. For some, the difference may be noticeable due to factors like A1 versus A2 protein type, lower synthetic additives, and anti-inflammatory omega-3s found in some organic products. For others, particularly those with a diagnosed lactose intolerance, the issue is not with the farming method but with the lactose itself. Choosing an organic lactose-free product is the best solution in that scenario. Paying attention to your body's specific reaction to different types of milk is the best way to determine the right choice for your digestive health. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian if you have persistent or severe digestive issues related to milk consumption.

Visit the FDA website for more information on lactose intolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the lactose content in organic milk is generally not significantly different from conventional milk. Any perceived difference in digestibility is likely due to other factors, such as the beta-casein protein type or fewer synthetic additives.

A1 and A2 refer to different types of beta-casein protein in milk. Some studies suggest that the A1 protein in conventional milk can cause digestive issues for some people, while A2 milk does not form the same problematic peptide.

For some, the reduced level of synthetic hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides in organic milk may lead to less digestive irritation. Additionally, some organic brands offer A2 milk, which contains a different protein that is easier for some people to digest.

No, standard organic milk is not a solution for true lactose intolerance. It contains the same amount of lactose as conventional milk. For those with this condition, an organic lactose-free milk, where the lactase enzyme has been added, is the correct choice.

The higher anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid content found in milk from pasture-fed organic cows may help reduce gut inflammation associated with conditions like IBS. The absence of synthetic hormones and antibiotics might also be beneficial.

Organic lactose-free milk is an excellent option for those with lactose intolerance who also want the benefits of organic farming. It provides the same creamy taste and nutrients as organic milk, but the lactose is already broken down for easier digestion.

Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) pasteurization can denature milk proteins. Some people report that milk processed at lower temperatures is easier to digest, though the scientific consensus is not absolute. Many organic brands offer UHT milk for a longer shelf life.