Non-Dairy and Dairy Free Labels: May Contain Milk Protein!

When shopping for dairy-free products, are you confused by the non-dairy and dairy free labels on the product packaging?  You should be. Beware that the terms “non-dairy” and “dairy free” do NOT necessarily mean that the product is free of milk protein! Confusing, I know.

The reason is that the FDA’s definition of the term “non-dairy” allows for the use of casein (a milk protein) in the product with that label.  It may not contain actual milk as an ingredient but, for some ridiculous reason, milk protein is allowed.  I have found that many products labeled non-dairy (a term often used on coffee creamers) actually contain casein, which is unsafe for those allergic to milk.

Also, the term “dairy free” is not regulated by the FDA at all, so there are no guarantees that the product is free of milk protein.  However, the FDA does not allow companies to use terms which are false or misleading on their packaging, and I have found that many products labeled dairy free are, in fact, free of dairy and milk protein.  Do not rely on the words “non-dairy” or “dairy free” on the front of the package to determine if a product is free of milk protein.  You must read the ingredient list carefully, and check out the product’s allergen disclosure statement.  If the ingredient list contains some questionable ingredients, check out the manufacturer’s website (often in a FAQ section) to see if they make any statements about allergens, or call the company.  I can’t tell you how many times I have stopped in the supermarket and used my phone to look up a manufacturer’s website or phone number to find out if the product I’m holding in my hand contains an allergen.  A smartphone is your best friend if you are dealing with food allergies!

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