Hidden Milk Ingredients: Names to Look Out For on Ingredient Lists

Common Names to Look Out For

• Whey protein, whey powder, whey protein concentrate
• Casein, sodium caseinate, caseinates
• Milk solids, milk powder, whole milk powder, skimmed milk powder
• Butter, cream, whipping cream, condensed milk, cheese
• Lactose (it is a sugar, but it often comes together with milk protein)

Where It Often Appears

Besides milk products themselves, milk ingredients may be found in biscuits, cakes, chocolate, sweets, ice cream, milk tea, coffee creamer, some bread and sausages, soups and sauces, and some nutritional supplements. Some food labels state "may contain traces of milk". Whether to avoid these depends on how severe your reactions are and your doctor's advice.

Practical Tips

• Get into the habit of reading ingredient lists. Focus on the "ingredients" section, not just the claims on the front of the packet.
• Different sizes of the same brand may have different ingredients. Check every time you buy.
• If a recipe or ingredient list changes, check again whether it is safe.
• When eating out, ask how the food is made and whether milk or milk-based oil is used.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's advice.