Many sources offer contradictory perspectives on whether buffalo milk can serve as a safe alternative to cow’s milk, with some supporting it as a suitable choice.
The extensive amount of information accessible online creates a difficult landscape for consumers, making it challenging to distinguish credible facts from falsehoods. As a result, having reliable scientific research is vital for assessing the safety of food items.
Cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most prevalent food allergies among infants and young children. While cow’s milk remains the leading type, making up about 83% of global production, there has been a significant rise in the use of milk from other animal species. Buffalo milk now accounts for approximately 13% of worldwide milk and dairy production.
Is Buffalo Milk Good for Lactose Intolerance
Buffalo milk boasts about double the fat content of cow’s milk and has slightly higher protein levels, making it richer in energy. The lactose amounts in both milks are quite similar.
Many people with lactose intolerance find that they tolerate buffalo milk better than cow’s milk. This is likely because buffalo milk is easier to digest, as it contains lower levels of lactose.
Water buffalo milk is naturally very low in lactose, making it an ideal substitute for cow’s milk. This allows you to enjoy your favorite dairy treats without any concerns.
When researchers looked at the main proteins in the milk of various animals—bovine, caprine, buffalo, equine, and camel—they found that β-lactoglobulin is the leading whey protein in all except camel milk. Moreover, studies on how milk proteins interact across different species revealed notable cross-reactivity, especially with α-casein and β-lactoglobulin in buffalo milk. This suggests that cow’s milk proteins can react similarly with those from other mammals, including buffalo, affecting both caseins and β-lactoglobulin.
Takeaway
This indicates that individuals with cow’s milk allergy (CMA) are unlikely to tolerate buffalo milk. Additionally, it may not be a suitable option for those who are lactose intolerant, given its lactose content. When exploring these topics, it’s important to refer to credible sources to avoid any misinterpretation of the information.
