Common Food Allergens

Milk

Egg

Peanut

Tree nut

Fish

Shellfish

Soy

Wheat

Alimentos comunes que resultan alérgenos

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Tips for Managing a Milk Allergy

Baking

Fortunately, milk is one of the easiest ingredients to substitute in baking and cooking. It can be substituted, in equal amounts, with water or fruit juice. (For example, substitute 1 cup milk with 1 cup water.)

Some Hidden Sources of Milk

  • Deli meat slicers are frequently used for both meat and cheese products.
  • Some brands of canned tuna fish contain casein, a milk protein.
  • Many non-dairy products contain casein (a milk derivative), listed on the ingredient labels.
  • Some meats may contain casein as a binder. Check all labels carefully.
  • Many restaurants put butter on steaks after they have been grilled to add extra flavor. The butter is not visible after it melts.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is goat milk a safe alternative to cow milk?
Goat's milk protein is similar to cow's milk protein and may, therefore, cause a reaction in milk-allergic individuals. It is not a safe alternative.

What formulas are recommended for children with milk allergy?
Casein-hydrolysate formulas are often recommended. These formulas contain protein that has been extensively broken down so it is different than milk protein and not as likely to cause an allergic reaction. Examples of casein-hydrolysate formulas are Alimentum and Nutramigen.

If the child is not allergic to soy, the doctor may recommend a soy-based formula.

When should a child stop using formula?

When to wean from a milk-free formula to a milk substitute (such as rice milk or soy milk) will vary depending on the child's current diet. A milk-free formula is an excellent source of necessary nutrients, so many doctors recommend continuing its use well past the age of one year for children on restricted diets due to food allergy. Discuss your options with your doctor or dietician.

Source: Nutrition Guide, p. 12-13.

Do these ingredients contain milk?

We frequently receive calls about the following ingredients. They do not contain milk protein and need not be restricted by someone avoiding milk:

 

Calcium lactate

Lactic acid (however, lactic acid starter culture may contain milk)

Calcium stearoyl lactylate

Oleoresin

Cocoa butter

Sodium lactate

Cream of tartar

Sodium stearoyl lactylate

 

Resources Available from FAAN

The following are some helpful resources that may be ordered online or by calling FAAN at (800) 929-4040.

 

 
 
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Date modified: 4/8/2009
The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
11781 Lee Jackson Hwy., Suite 160
Fairfax, VA 22033
(800) 929-4040