What are the benefits of goat milk for people with milk allergies?

Is goat milk safe for a cow milk allergy?

Usually not. A review of the research reports that goat milk proteins have large similarities to cow milk proteins and show cross-reactivity, so goat milk should not be used in people, especially infants, with allergy to cow milk. A 2004 case report describes a 4-month-old with cow milk allergy who had anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction, after drinking commercial goat milk. Goat milk is not an accepted treatment for cow milk allergy.

What is the difference between milk allergy and lactose intolerance?

• Milk allergy: an immune reaction to milk proteins. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, vomiting, wheezing and, rarely, anaphylaxis.
• Lactose intolerance: trouble digesting the sugar lactose, causing tummy pain, bloating, wind and diarrhea. The NHS lists goat and sheep milk as lactose sources too.

Goat milk offers no safe route for either problem without advice.

What should you do instead?

• If you suspect a milk allergy, see a GP or allergist for a diagnosis rather than testing foods yourself.
• Ask which alternatives are safe for you. Fortified soy, oat or other plant milks are common choices, but check the label for calcium and for allergens such as soy or nuts.
• For babies and young children, always follow the advice of a doctor, health visitor or dietitian.
• Read labels on cheese, yogurt, baked goods and sauces, since milk hides in many foods.

When is it an emergency?

Call emergency services if there is swelling of the lips, face or throat, trouble breathing, dizziness or collapse after eating milk or goat milk.

What about cooking with goat milk?

Cooking may not remove allergens. If you have a diagnosed allergy, avoid goat milk and goat cheese unless an allergist has told you otherwise.

This page is general information, not medical advice.