Dairy can be surprisingly difficult to avoid, as it's used in many processed foods. Being aware of these hidden sources is crucial for managing a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. Here are some of the most common hidden sources of dairy:

In Foods:

• "Natural Flavors" and "Artificial Flavors": These generic terms can sometimes hide dairy ingredients. If you see these on a label and are unsure, contact the manufacturer.
• Baked Goods: Many baked goods, including breads, cakes, cookies, and muffins, contain milk, butter, or other dairy products.
• Processed Meats: Some processed meats, like sausages, deli meats, and hot dogs, may contain casein or other milk-derived ingredients.
• Non-Dairy Creamers: Surprisingly, some "non-dairy" creamers actually contain casein, a milk protein. Always check the label carefully.
• Soups and Sauces: Creamy soups, gravies, and sauces often contain milk, cream, or butter.
• Salad Dressings: Many salad dressings, especially creamy ones, contain dairy.
• Snack Foods: Some snack foods, like chips, crackers, and popcorn, may contain butter, cheese, or other dairy ingredients.
• Medications and Supplements: Some medications and supplements may contain lactose or other dairy-derived ingredients. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Hidden Dairy Ingredients (Look out for these terms):

• Casein (milk protein)
• Whey (milk protein)
• Lactose (milk sugar)
• Milk solids
• Milk powder
• Butter
• Cream
• Cheese
• Yogurt

Tips for Identifying Dairy:

• Scan Food Labels With Mealeez: Highlight the "Milk" category in your profile, and Mealeez will flag ingredients that may contain milk or milk derivatives.
• Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list for milk, casein, whey, lactose, and other dairy-related terms.
• Look for "Dairy-Free" or "Vegan" Labels: Products labeled "dairy-free" or "vegan" should not contain any dairy ingredients. However, it's still a good idea to double-check the label.
• Contact Manufacturers: If you're unsure about the ingredients in a product, contact the manufacturer for clarification.

Important Note: This list is not exhaustive, and new hidden sources of dairy may be discovered. Always read labels carefully and be vigilant about potential cross-contamination.