Why is it important to label milk derivatives such as casein, sodium caseinate or whey followed by the word “milk” on the labels of food products? The FDA mandates it because some people have allergies to milk and these products contain a form of milk or proteins from milk. Allergies can result in life threatening reactions to the proteins found in milk.
A milk allergy is an allergic reaction to the protein found in milk which involves the immune system. Our body tries to protect us from antigens which are proteins that our body recognizes as dangerous. In an allergy to milk, the body responds to the milk protein thus causing an allergic reaction.
Casein is a protein which exists in milk as a calcium salt or calcium caseinate. Another protein linked to allergies is whey. Whey is a protein found in milk.
Any food product containing casein has to be labeled "casein" followed by the word (milk.) Some people do not know that casein is not only a milk derivative - it is a milk protein. And, it is the protein in milk that causes an allergic reaction to those who are allergic to milk.
In shopping for food for someone with milk allergies, it is important to note that words such as sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, casein, or whey are some of the words that denote there is milk protein in the product.
For an excellent resource on allergy information in Phoenix, contact the Phoenix Allergy Network.
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