What is a dairy allergy?

An allergy to cows’ milk is the most common food allergy amongst babies and young children, though people usually outgrow it. If you suffer after eating dairy products, what could be the cause? Cows’ milk contains many proteins – including albumin, casein and whey – which can trigger an allergy. It affects 3-6 per cent of infants and young children, although most will grow out of it by the time they are five.

If you are allergic to the proteins contained in cows’ milk you must avoid milk and milk products because a milk allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that narrows the airways and impedes breathing. Milk is the third most common food, after peanuts and tree nuts, to cause anaphylaxis. Obvious foods to avoid include all dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, cheese, fromage frais, butter, Quark and evaporated or condensed milk. But you must also be aware that cows’ milk protein can be hidden in other foods, including bread, biscuits, cakes, ready-made baby foods and processed meats.