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*