Abstract #138

# 138
A2 Milk: Where are we now?
E. Brown*1, C. Williams1, 1Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA.

Milk, often considered nature’s most nearly perfect food, is an excellent source of many nutrients. It is an excellent source of protein, containing 8 g per serving. The 2 major proteins in milk are casein and whey, with casein accounting for 80% of milk protein. β-Casein comprises about 30% of protein in cow’s milk, with the 2 variants being A1 and A2. Commercially available milk contains mostly A1 proteins. In 2000, a New Zealand scientist discovered that cows produce both A1 and A2 milk proteins, and then he developed the a2 Milk Company. By identifying A2 protein producing cows with DNA tests and selling their milk, the a2 Milk Company built a successful business that expanded to the United States in 2015. Research has shown that a2 Milk is easier to digest, resulting in less stomach discomfort for consumers. While a2 Milk is not a new development, the product continues to gain in popularity as consumers desire a dairy based milk that they can easily digest rather than a plant-based beverage alternative such as soy or almond milk. As consumer interest has grown, a2 Milk has become more available throughout the United States and is available in over 6,000 locations. In fall 2018 the a2 Milk Company began distributing their products to Costco stores across the southeast United States. As the demand for this product continues to grow, the company continues to build retailer partnerships as it promotes brand awareness and national distribution to provide consumers the opportunity to enjoy the nutritional benefits of real milk.

Key Words: a2 milk, milk protein, consumer demand