Ingredient Information

Function

Sodium caseinate or casein is used in frozen desserts and coffee creamers as a thickener and a whitening ingredient. It is extracted milk protein.

Other Use and Industries

Currently casein is not commonly used outside of food products except in the dental industry as a tooth strengthening ingredient.

Health Effects

Casein is a milk protein and therefore has the capacity to trigger milk allergies. Individuals who are lactose-intolerant should not be concerned, however people with strict milk-protein allergies should avoid products that include casein or sodium caseinate, though they may be labeled as non-dairy. Casein is the primary protein in milk, and while it is used in some non-dairy and vegetarian foods, it is not an approved vegan ingredient.

Origins

Casein is isolated by heating milk mixed with an acid ingredient.