Milk Allergies

Tip Sheet 43

Read labels to identify foods that contain

milk. Milk must be listed in plain language

on the label or clearly state that the

product contains a milk source.

Look for words on the label that indicate

milk or milk products such as: casein,

casein hydrolysate, whey or whey prod-

ucts, yogurt, lactalbumin, lactose,

lactoferrin, or lactulose.

Read food labels frequently as the

ingredients may change without any

noticeable change in the appearance of

the package.

Avoid foods that may contain hidden

sources of milk. Tuna may contain casein;

nondairy products may contain milk

derivatives; and meat may contain the

binding agent, casein, a milk protein.

Know the signs of an allergic reaction

such as the appearance of hives,

wheezing, and vomiting. A child may have

a reaction within a few minutes to a few

hours of consuming the food.

Be aware that goat’s milk protein is

similar to cow’s milk protein and may

cause a reaction in individuals who have

milk allergies.

Review recipes when planning menus to

determine if they contain milk and find

possible substitutions that do not contain

milk.

Talk to your child about common foods

that contain milk such as butter, cheese

(all types), cream, cream cheese, half and

half, ice cream, pudding, sour cream,

yogurt, and some processed foods.

Helpful Tips:

Cow’s milk is a common food allergy among children. An allergy should not be confused with

lactose intolerance. An allergy is an abnormal response to the protein in milk, involves the im-

mune system, and can be life threatening. An intolerance does not involve the immune system

and is not life threatening. Sometimes children outgrow allergies, but there is no cure. Avoid-

ing foods containing milk is the only way to prevent a reaction.

Banana Berry Smoothie

SOURCE: “Lets Cook with Kids” Northeast

Valley Health Corporation WIC Program

Reprinted by permission of the publisher.

Servings: 2

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup soy milk

1 cup frozen strawberries

1 banana, quartered and frozen

PREPARATION:

1. Puree all ingredients in a blender

until smooth.

Recipe Corner

Try this dairy-free Banana Berry Smoothie.

Healthy and Active Preschoolers, Milk Allergies, Tip Sheet 43,

provided by the California Department of Education,

Nutrition Services Division, through an interagency agreement with the

California Professional Nutrition Education and Training (Cal-Pro-NET) Center

at Fresno City College. Visit the Web site at

http://www.healthypreschoolers.com

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.