A2 milk refers to the type of beta-casein protein the milk contains. Our native herd naturally produces A2 milk — here is what that means and why it matters to some people.
The protein behind the name
About 80% of the protein in cow's milk is casein, and one of the main types is beta-casein. It comes in two common forms: A1 and A2. The only difference is a single amino acid in the protein chain — but that small difference is why "A2 milk" has become its own category.
Why the two types exist
Originally, all cows produced A2 milk. The A1 type appeared later through a natural genetic mutation that spread widely among modern high-yield dairy breeds, especially Holstein-Friesians. Older and native breeds are more likely to carry the A2 type — which is part of why our herd produces it.
A1 vs A2: what's the difference?
| A2 milk | A1 milk | |
|---|---|---|
| Beta-casein type | A2 | A1 (or A1/A2 mix) |
| Typical breeds | Native & older breeds | Modern high-yield breeds |
| How it digests | Breaks down differently | Releases the peptide BCM-7 |
When A1 beta-casein is digested it releases a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). A2 milk does not release it in the same way. Some people who find ordinary milk hard to tolerate report getting on better with A2 milk, though the science is still being explored and we make no health claims.
Is A2 the same as lactose-free?
No — this is a common mix-up. A2 refers to a protein; lactose is a sugar. A2 milk still contains lactose, so it is not suitable if you are lactose intolerant. If lactose is your issue, our ghee contains only trace amounts because the milk solids are removed.
Our A2 herd
Our cows are a native breed that naturally produces A2 milk, raised on grass at our certified-organic farm. So our raw milk is grass-fed, organic and A2 — all in one bottle.
Curious about the rest of what makes our milk different? Read grass-fed milk explained and what is raw milk?
Taste real raw milk
We deliver living, grass-fed organic raw milk across East Sussex and UK-wide.