The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive to dairy companies to cease using A1 and A2 labels on milk and milk products like milk, ghee, butter, and curd.
- FSSAI aims to protect consumers from unscientific claims and ensure accurate labeling of dairy products
About the recent move:
- The labels are deemed misleading and non-compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- The distinction between A1 and A2 milk is based on beta–casein protein, which can confuse consumers.
About A1 and A2 Milk:
- Casein, a major protein in milk, exists in at least 13 different forms.
- Protein Types in Milk:
- Milk contains various types of casein, with beta-casein being the second most common protein.
- A1 Beta-Casein: Predominantly found in milk from breeds like Holstein, Friesian, Ayrshire, and British Shorthorn.
- A2 Beta-Casein:Found in milk from breeds such as Guernsey, Jersey, Charolais, and Limousin.
- Milk Variants:
- Regular milk contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein.
- A2 milk contains only A2 beta-casein.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is the FSSAI directive regarding A1 and A2 labels on milk products?
The FSSAI has directed dairy companies to stop using A1 and A2 labels on milk and milk products due to concerns of misleading consumers and non-compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
What is the basis of the distinction between A1 and A2 milk?
The difference lies in the beta-casein protein present in the milk, with A1 milk predominantly found in certain breeds like Holstein and Friesian, while A2 milk is found in breeds like Guernsey and Jersey.
How many different forms of casein protein are there in milk?
There are at least 13 different forms of casein protein present in milk, with beta-casein being the second most common protein after alpha-casein.
Which breeds of cows produce A1 beta-casein milk?
Breeds like Holstein, Friesian, Ayrshire, and British Shorthorn are known to produce milk containing A1 beta-casein protein.
Which breeds of cows produce A2 beta-casein milk?
Cows from breeds such as Guernsey, Jersey, Charolais, and Limousin are known to produce milk containing A2 beta-casein protein.