A2 Milk
Milk from cows that produce only the A2 form of beta-casein protein, rather than the usual mix of A1 and A2. It is otherwise ordinary milk in fat and nutrition.
| Category | Milk & Cream |
|---|---|
| Maker / Origin | United States |
| Storage | Refrigerate at about 38°F in its sealed carton, not in the door. |
| Shelf life | About 5 to 7 days after opening, and by the date on the carton, like other fresh milks. |
| Best uses | Drinking, cereal, coffee, baking, and cooking, anywhere regular milk is used. |
| Substitutes | Regular whole or 2% milk in any use. |
| Pairings | Cereal, coffee, and tea. |
| Last checked | October 18, 2026 |
About it
A2 milk comes from cows genotyped or selected to carry only the A2 variant. Most commercial herds are mixed; A2 herds are bred and tested separately, which is why the milk is sold as a specialty product at a higher price.
Storing it
Treat exactly like regular milk for storage and freezing: up to 3 months frozen, thawed in the fridge and shaken.
Using it
Use A2 milk exactly as regular milk; the difference is in the protein variant, not in fat, flavor, or how it behaves in recipes.
Swaps & pairings
Any standard milk swaps in one for one in recipes. A2 milk itself swaps for regular milk in every use without adjustment.
More from this maker: United States