Tag: Non dairy vs dairy free

According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Connection Team (FAACT), milk is one of the top nine major food allergens, yet a product can be labeled "non-dairy" and still contain milk proteins. This contradiction stems from an outdated regulatory definition that allows for a small amount of milk-derived protein in products like coffee creamers.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not legally define the term "dairy-free," yet historically, the regulated term "non-dairy" has been permitted to contain milk derivatives. Understanding the distinction is crucial for consumers, especially those managing food allergies or specific dietary choices, as the labels don't always mean what they seem.

Despite being labeled "non-dairy," the original Nestle Coffee mate powder contains sodium caseinate, a milk derivative, making it unsuitable for those with a dairy allergy or following a strict vegan diet. This article clarifies why the powder is not truly dairy-free and guides you toward genuinely plant-based creamer options.