Looking for foods that have casein? The protein 'casein' plays an important role in building muscles, but some may be allergic to casein. The list of foods containing casein protein, presented in this story can be helpful to those who are interested in bodybuilding and for those who need to avoid casein in their diet.
Casein is a type of protein which is present in mammalian milk. About 80% of proteins from cow's milk belong to the family 'caseins'. Similarly, about 60-65% of proteins found in human milk are caseins. These proteins bind to substances that contain phosphoric acid and hence, are termed as 'phosphoproteins'. Casein carries certain characteristic properties and so it is added to foods, supplements and medicines. It is also used to manufacture paints, safety matches, cosmetics, etc.
When consumed as a food, it provides various amino acids, carbohydrates, calcium and phosphorus. 'Coagulation of casein' is the main process involved in the production of cheese.
In Europe, casein is called 'caseinogen' especially when it is not in the coagulated form. Although it helps build muscles, some people who are allergic to casein need to exclude foods containing casein protein from their diet.
These days, men are interested in 'abs' and women in 'curves'. 'Diet' has become a buzzword in the society. At the same time, increasing number of people suffering from allergies is a constant concern worldwide.
People who are allergic to casein may exhibit symptoms like skin rash, itchy skin, swollen lips/tongue/throat/mouth, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, sneezing, nasal congestion, etc.
A severe allergic reaction may end up in breathing difficulty, chest pain and/or skin hives. Such a serious reaction is known as 'anaphylaxis'. Those diagnosed with asthma are more likely to suffer from anaphylaxis due to food allergy. In such cases, serious symptoms may develop rapidly, within a few minutes.
If you notice that every time you have a glass of milk or your favorite pizza, you suffer from swollen lips or skin rash, you should undergo an allergy test. Coming up, is a list of foods having casein protein.
Foods that Contain Casein
Dairy Foods
Casein is mainly found in milk. According to the study reports presented by the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FANN), about 2.5% kids younger than 3 years are allergic to milk. Most people are allergic or intolerant to lactose (a sugar in milk).
People who are allergic or intolerant to casein are less when compared to 'lactose intolerant people'. If you are allergic to casein, foods that contain milk ingredients should be avoided. For instance, some dairy products contain casein protein like:
Cheese
Yogurt
Butter
Milk
Pudding
Cottage cheese
Butter fat
Ice cream
Anything made from milk contains casein.
Processed Foods
Casein is added for emulsification and texture. When caseinate is added to ham brine, it is easier to make slices of ham. Sodium caseinate can be present in chicken soup too. In case of allergy symptoms, one should check whether he/she has meat allergy or casein allergy.
According to the 'Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004', the manufacturers have to mention on the label, whether the food contains any common allergen like casein. So you should check the labels carefully. Casein protein is often present in processed foods like:
Coffee whiteners
Whipped toppings
Infant formulas
Breath mints
Fortified cereals
Nutrition bars
Protein-rich beverage powders
Protein shakes
Bakery glazes (buns and all baked goods)
Salad dressings
Processed meats
Canned tuna
Chicken broth or bouillon
Fresh poultry (as it is infused with a solution to keep it fresh)
Sausages and various fast food items like hot dogs, French fries
Non-dairy Foods
To increase the protein content of the soy products, manufacturers often add casein protein to the product. The soy product label should display 'casein, caseinates or sodium caseinate' in the list of ingredients. According to FANN, some non-dairy foods may have casein, like follows.
Non-dairy whipped toppings
Soy cheese
Artificial butter flavor
Margarine
The last section talks about medicines which have casein in them that may trigger an allergic reaction.
Medicines
Some chemical compounds that are used for 'tooth remineralization' contain casein. Many protein supplements contain casein. Casein ensures a sustained and slow release of amino acids into the bloodstream so that the body is able to use nitrogen in a better way. Casein is digested slowly and so consumption of casein between meals and before bed helps maintain an anabolic state. This property is especially useful for bodybuilders.
Having a list of foods containing casein protein comes in handy. Those who are allergic to casein should keep in mind that they might accidentally eat a food item containing casein and suffer a reaction. Even a nail polish containing casein may trigger an allergy.
Those diagnosed with allergies should always carry their medicines (a shot of epinephrine, over-the-counter antihistamines) to avoid serious situations. One should call 911 in case of an emergency. And, those who are interested in bodybuilding should increase the intake of casein.