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Hidden Sources of Cow's Milk

Hidden Sources of Cow's Milk

Many common foods may contain cow's milk. Read about hidden sources of cow's milk.

Many of the foods shown here typically contain cow's milk; those marked with a * may or may not. Read labels to be sure.

Finding Hidden Milk

  • Look in the ingredients list for the word "milk," with or without parentheses around it. For example, "whey (milk)" or "milk."
  • Check the packaging for a statement. such as "Contains Milk."
  • Re-read labels often. Product ingredients can change.
  • Avoid unlabeled foods. It's not easy to tell if foods sold loose/fresh (like bakery items) contain cow's milk.
  • Watch for cross contact. Deli meats sliced on a machine used for cheese may contain milk residue.
  • Ask the market managers. They may be able to supply a list of the milk-free foods they carry

Cupboard Items

  • Baby biscuits
  • Store-bought baby foods*
  • Certain baby formulas (non-hypoallergenic)*
  • Cereals*
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Potato sides (such as scalloped or au gratin)
  • Certain soups (bisques, chowders, and creamed soups)
  • Tuna kits (prepared with dressing or mayo)*

Refrigerated Items

  • Milk (all forms, including products suitable for someone with lactose intolerance)
  • Cream (including half and half)
  • Cheese (including artificial)
  • Nondairy creamer*
  • Buttermilk
  • Eggnog
  • Malted milk
  • Butter, ghee, and some margarines
  • Egg substitutes*
  • Mayonnaise*
  • Salad dressings*
  • Sour cream
  • Yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Soft cheese (cream cheese, quark)
  • Curds
  • Custard
  • Pudding
  • Whipped cream
  • Deli Meat*
  • Hot Dogs*

Frozen Foods

  • Ice cream
  • Frozen yogurt
  • Sherbet*
  • Frozen waffles, pancakes, and French toast*
  • Battered frozen foods (such as chicken nuggets)*
  • French fries*
  • Frozen vegetables in batter or sauce*
  • Frozen dinners*
  • Sausages, meatloaf, and other prepared meats*

Candies

  • Carmel candies and syrup*
  • Chocolate*
  • Fudge*
  • Nougat

Bakery Items

  • Baked goods (biscuits, cakes, doughnuts, muffins, and pies)*
  • Breads and rolls*

Baking Ingredients

  • Condensed milk
  • Evaporated milk
  • High-protein flour*

All information on Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil.