Which yogurt is A2? Your Guide to A2 Protein Dairy

December 22, 2025 •

5 min read

Recent studies suggest that for some people, switching from conventional A1 dairy to A2 dairy can alleviate digestive discomfort like bloating and gas. This has led to a growing interest in which yogurt is A2 and whether it is a healthier option for those with dairy sensitivities.

Quick Summary

This guide provides information on specific yogurt brands that are confirmed to use A2 milk, distinguishing between A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins, and explaining why A2 protein may be easier to digest for some individuals. It also covers what to look for when shopping and the potential benefits of choosing A2 yogurt.

Key Points

A2 vs. A1 Protein: The difference in yogurt stems from beta-casein protein; A2 milk contains only the A2 type, which may be easier for some to digest than the A1 protein found in most conventional milk.
Leading A2 Yogurt Brands: Alexandre Family Farm and Bellwether Farms are notable brands offering yogurts made from DNA-tested A2-only cow herds.
Finding A2 Products: Consumers should look for clear labeling such as "A2/A2 milk" or similar claims on packaging, often found in natural food stores.
Digestive Benefits: Many individuals report reduced bloating and gas when consuming A2 yogurt, although scientific research on the subject is ongoing.
Alternative Dairy Sources: For those with A1 sensitivity, milk from goats, sheep, and water buffalo is also naturally A2-like and can be a viable option.
DIY A2 Yogurt: It is possible to make A2 yogurt at home by using certified A2 milk and a yogurt starter culture.

The A1 vs. A2 Protein Difference

The difference between A1 and A2 yogurt begins with the milk source. All cow's milk contains two main types of protein: casein and whey. Beta-casein is the second most common type of casein, and it exists in two primary forms, A1 and A2.

Most modern dairy herds in the Western world, particularly those of Holstein and Friesian breeds, produce milk that contains a mixture of both A1 and A2 beta-casein. However, certain heritage breeds, such as Jersey, Guernsey, and many Asian and African cow breeds, naturally produce milk with only the A2 beta-casein protein. A single genetic mutation thousands of years ago led to the production of the A1 protein in European herds. During digestion, the A1 protein releases a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7), which some research suggests may trigger digestive issues in some people. A2 beta-casein, however, does not release this peptide, which is why it is often cited as being gentler on the digestive system.

How is A2 Yogurt Made?

Producing A2 yogurt requires sourcing milk exclusively from cows that are DNA-tested to ensure they produce only the A2 beta-casein protein. The rest of the yogurt-making process remains the same, with milk being pasteurized and then fermented with live bacterial cultures to achieve its distinct flavor and texture.

Leading Brands that Offer A2 Yogurt

Identifying which yogurt is A2 requires looking for specific product labeling. Several brands have dedicated product lines made exclusively from A2 milk.

Well-Known A2 Yogurt Brands

Alexandre Family Farm: This California-based, certified regenerative organic dairy is a leader in A2/A2 products. They offer a range of yogurts, including whole milk and 100% grass-fed varieties, using milk from their Jersey and Jersey cross herd, which has been transitioned to A2 genetics.
Bellwether Farms: Known for its award-winning dairy products, Bellwether Farms sources milk from healthy, grass-fed Jersey cows that are DNA-tested to ensure they only produce A2 protein. Their A2 Organic Whole Milk Yogurt is noted for its naturally rich and creamy texture.
The a2 Milk Company: While primarily known for its milk products, the a2 Milk Company partners with various producers to create a range of A2-based dairy items, including yogurt. Shoppers should check product labeling to confirm.
Jalna: This Australian company explicitly labels its A2 Protein All Natural Yogurt, which is made from fresh A2 protein milk from their own farm.
Nounós Creamery: This brand offers a Real Greek Yogurt with A2 Milk and Probiotics, catering to those who prefer the thicker consistency of Greek-style yogurt.

It is essential to check the labeling for specific A2 claims, as not all products from these brands might be A2.

Comparison: A1/A2 vs. A2-Only Yogurt


Feature	A1/A2 (Conventional) Yogurt	A2-Only Yogurt
Protein Type	Contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein	Contains only A2 beta-casein
Sourcing	Milk from common dairy breeds (e.g., Holstein, Friesian)	Milk from specific heritage breeds (e.g., Jersey, Guernsey) or tested herds
Digestibility	May cause digestive discomfort like bloating and gas in some sensitive individuals due to BCM-7 release	Often reported to be gentler on the digestive system, as it doesn't release BCM-7
Availability	Widely available in all grocery stores	More specialized; found in natural food stores and select markets
Taste & Texture	Highly variable based on brand, fat content, and processing	Often praised for a rich, creamy texture due to milk sourcing
Cost	Generally lower price point	Tends to be more expensive due to specialized sourcing and production

How to Find A2 Yogurt

Read the Label: Look for explicit claims such as "A2/A2 milk," "A2 protein," or phrases like "made with milk from tested A2 cows." If the label doesn't specify, it likely contains a mix of A1 and A2 proteins.
Shop at Specialized Stores: Natural food stores, co-ops, and high-end grocery chains are more likely to carry A2 yogurt brands. Websites like the a2 Milk Company or dairy farms like Alexandre Family Farm often have store locators.
Consider Herd Type: When possible, buying from local farms that use heritage breeds known for A2 milk can be a good option. However, DNA testing of the herd is the only way to guarantee A2-only milk.
Try Other Dairy: If A2 yogurt is difficult to find, some people with A1 sensitivities find that milk from goats, sheep, or water buffalo is easier to digest because these animals naturally produce A2-like beta-casein proteins.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Digestion

For those who experience digestive troubles with conventional dairy but aren't lactose intolerant, exploring which yogurt is A2 may provide a resolution. Brands like Alexandre Family Farm, Bellwether Farms, and others specifically produce yogurt from A2-only milk, offering a potentially more digestible alternative. By reading labels carefully and seeking out these specialized products, consumers can make an informed choice that aligns with their dietary needs and supports their gut health.

For more detailed information on the scientific research and differences between A1 and A2 dairy, see this comprehensive overview: The a2 Milk Company Science.

Helpful Resources for Finding A2 Yogurt

Know Your Herd: The source of the milk is the most important factor. Breeds like Jersey, Guernsey, and Indian Desi cows are more likely to be A2 dominant.
Verify Labeling: Don't assume. Always check the packaging for specific "A2" certification or claims.
Support Specialized Brands: Purchasing from companies that explicitly produce A2 products encourages wider availability.
Digestive Comfort: Many who switch report a noticeable reduction in bloating and gas.
Homemade Option: For a truly customizable experience, you can make your own A2 yogurt using A2 milk and a quality starter culture.
Quality First: Look for organic, grass-fed A2 yogurt for additional nutritional benefits.

Final Takeaway

The quest to find which yogurt is A2 has become more manageable with the rise of dedicated dairy brands and increased consumer awareness. With careful label reading and a focus on specialized producers, it's possible to find a delicious, probiotic-rich yogurt that aligns with specific digestive needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference lies in the beta-casein protein. Conventional A1/A2 yogurt contains a mixture of both A1 and A2 protein, while A2-only yogurt is made exclusively from milk containing the A2 protein, which some people find easier to digest.

For individuals with sensitivities to the A1 protein, A2 yogurt may be a better option because it can reduce digestive issues like bloating and discomfort. For those without such sensitivities, the nutritional benefits are largely similar to conventional yogurt.

You must check the product label for specific claims. Brands that use A2 milk will explicitly state "A2" on their packaging, or mention that it is made with milk from A2-tested cows.

Heritage breeds such as Jersey, Guernsey, and some Indian and African cow breeds naturally produce milk with only the A2 protein. However, some dairy producers also DNA-test their entire herd to ensure A2-only milk production.

A2 yogurt contains lactose, so it is not suitable for individuals with true lactose intolerance. However, some people who believe they are lactose intolerant are actually sensitive to the A1 protein, and may tolerate A2 yogurt better.

Yes, several brands offer A2 Greek yogurt. For example, Nounós Creamery offers a Real Greek Yogurt with A2 milk, and certain A2 yogurt producers also have strained Greek-style varieties.

Generally, yes. A2 yogurt is often more expensive than conventional yogurt due to the higher cost and specialized sourcing and testing required for A2-only milk production.