Milk allergies might afflict only a small minority of the American population, but they can pose a huge health hazard to those affected. Allergy symptoms can include gastrointestinal distress, trouble breathing and skin rashes. Though it's easy to avoid products that list milk, lactose and other obvious dairy ingredients, some ingredients bear no hint of their dairy origins but contain milk proteins or sugars that can be hazardous to your health.
Fruit Wax
The waxes applied to fresh vegetables and fruits as a preservative and gloss enhancer are formulated from either soy protein or casein, a dairy protein made from milk, according to the Star-K Kosher Certification program. Unless you know the manufacturer of the wax on your fruits and vegetables, wash them thoroughly to remove all wax; only buy waxed citrus fruits, as the wax-coated peel is removed before eating; or only buy fruit from local farmers who don't wax their produce.
Latex Gloves
In a research study published in the "Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology," researchers found that latex gloves often use milk casein protein as a stabilizing ingredient. Researchers found the amounts to vary by product but were sometimes enough to cause an allergic reaction in those allergic to cow's milk. Unless specifically noted as being milk protein-free, avoid the use of latex gloves.
Caramel
Caramel, including caramel coloring and caramel flavoring, should be avoided, according to the University of Virginia Health Systems. Such coloring or flavoring might be formulated with lactose, a type of sugar derived from milk.
Recaldent
Recaldent is a proprietary ingredient found in some types of sugar-free chewing gums and dental products. According to its manufacturer, Cadbury Enterprises, it's derived from milk and not suggested for either lactose-intolerant people or those with milk allergies.
Artificial Sweeteners
Some artificial sweeteners might contain sugars derived from milk. This includes tagatose, found in many sugar replacements and pre-packaged food products, which might pose a hazard to those with milk allergies, according to March 2005 study published in the "European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology." If your foods contain artificial sweeteners, contact the manufacturer for product-specific advice on its appropriateness for those with milk allergies.
References
- "Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology"; Cow's Milk Casein: A Hidden Allergen in Natural Rubber Latex Gloves; L. Ylitalo, et al.; July 1999
- "European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology"; Tagatose and Milk Allergy; S.L. Taylor, et al.; March 2005
- Star-K Kosher Certification: Facts on Vegetable and Fruit Waxes
- University of Virginia Health System: Milk Allergy Diet
- Recaldent: Official FAQ
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