Is whey dairy? Whey and casein on labels
In short: Yes. Whey and casein are the main proteins in milk, so both are dairy. They are the proteins that people with a milk allergy react to. Lactose-free products and many whey isolates can still contain milk protein, so they are not suitable for a milk allergy. In the US and EU, milk has to be declared on the label.
Whey is the liquid left when milk curdles, and casein is the protein in the curds. Together they make up most of the protein in milk.
Allergy or intolerance?
A milk allergy is an immune reaction to milk proteins. Lactose intolerance is a problem digesting milk sugar. So the same product can suit one person and not the other, and a doctor can help you work out which applies to you.
Names to look for
- whey, whey powder, whey protein concentrate or isolate
- casein, caseinates (sodium, calcium)
- lactalbumin, lactoglobulin
- milk solids, milk protein
The longer list is in our guide to hidden milk names.
How IngrediLens helps
IngrediLens reads the ingredient list on a label with your iPhone camera and highlights the allergens you chose, including "may contain" statements. It can miss things and is not a medical device, so always check the pack yourself and, if the source of an ingredient is unclear, ask the manufacturer.
Check labels with IngrediLens
Point your iPhone camera at an ingredient list and IngrediLens highlights the allergens you chose and “may contain” statements. Free to start, no account, and your data stays on your device.
Download on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
Is whey protein isolate dairy-free?
No. It is made from milk and still contains milk protein, even when most of the lactose has been removed.
Is lactose-free the same as milk-free?
No. Lactose is a milk sugar. Lactose-free products usually still contain milk proteins.
Can whey appear under another name?
Yes. Look for lactalbumin, lactoglobulin and milk solids. Casein can appear as caseinate, such as sodium caseinate.
