Casein Protein In Chocolate

According to Simon Fraser University, Americans consumed three billion pounds of chocolate in 2001, and 71 percent of Americans prefer to eat milk chocolate. The majority of this chocolate is made using milk or milk proteins such as casein, and for many people with milk allergies, chocolate must be avoided. According to The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, 2.5 percent of children 3 years of age and younger are allergic to milk and must avoid milk proteins such as casein.

Casein Protein

Casein, according to the New Zealand Institute of Chemistry, is the main protein found in cow's milk and is responsible for its white and opaque appearance. The amount of casein in milk is dependent on the type of animal it comes from and the stage of lactation the animal was in at the time of collection. Casein can be found in any product containing milk, including bread, processed cereals, instant soups, instant potatoes, salad dressings, chocolate, and some medications.

Allergies to Casein

If you are allergic to casein, your body's immune system thinks that the proteins are a threat to your body and creates large amounts of the antibodies IgA, IgG and IgE, which trigger an inflammatory reaction. Symptoms of a casein allergy can include diarrhea, bloating, fatigue or hyperactivity, a pale complexion, weight loss and vomiting. Casein allergies will also increase mucous secretion. Foods that list milk as an ingredient should be avoided. According to Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT, product labels listing milk solids, whey, casein, lactose, lactalbumin, galactose, protein enriched, caramel coloring and Recaldent should also be avoided.

Chocolate Varieties

Chocolate comes in a variety of kinds and blends, including milk chocolate, white chocolate and dark chocolate. The majority of chocolate contains dairy, or milk, with the exception being dark chocolate. However, according to MIT, dark chocolate is run on the same machines as milk chocolate, so casein cross-contamination is possible. With milk allergies being common, many chocolate companies have turned to making alternative chocolate using soy or rice milk; these are free of casein.

Considerations

If you have an allergy to casein, consuming chocolate can be difficult. It is important to closely read all labels for possible ingredients containing casein. Talk with your physician to determine if a small amount of casein is acceptable, or if it should be avoided completely. Look for chocolate that is made with alternative proteins and labeled casein-free.