Buyer protection
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Donkey milk is often described as "hypoallergenic" online. Factually, this cannot be said: Donkey milk contains milk protein and lactose. Anyone with a milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance should speak with a doctor before consuming it. This post explains what lies behind the term and what donkey milk actually is as a food.
What "hypoallergenic" actually means
The term "hypoallergenic" is intended to express that a product is less likely to trigger allergic reactions. There is no uniform, binding definition for food. Whether a person reacts to a food depends on their individual situation – not on a label.
That is why we do not use the term for donkey milk. Instead, we describe what is contained in the milk and leave the question of individual tolerance to those who can assess it: doctors.
Donkey milk contains milk protein
Like all mammal milk, donkey milk contains protein. There are about 1.5 to 1.9 g per 100 ml. This includes casein and whey proteins. Although the ratio of these protein components differs from cow's milk – donkey milk remains a milk with milk protein.
For people with a milk protein allergy, this means: Proteins from other animal milk can also cause reactions. Only a doctor can determine whether donkey milk is suitable in individual cases. Please do not try this out on your own.
Donkey milk contains a lot of lactose
A common misconception: donkey milk is an alternative for people with lactose intolerance. The opposite is true. Donkey milk contains about 6 to 7 g of lactose per 100 ml – and thus more than cow's milk with around 4.7 g. This is also where its slightly sweet taste comes from.
You can find a detailed comparison of different types of milk in the post Which milk contains how much lactose?
Allergy or intolerance: The difference
Both terms are often confused, but mean different things:
| Milk protein allergy | Lactose intolerance | |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger | certain milk proteins | Milk sugar (lactose) |
| What lies behind it | an allergic reaction of the body | Lactose is not fully digested |
| Relation to donkey milk | contains milk protein | contains about 6–7 g of lactose per 100 ml |
In both cases: Your diet should be coordinated with a doctor or a nutrition professional.
What research investigates
Donkey milk is primarily studied scientifically for its composition – such as its protein components, fat content, and natural ingredients like lysozyme and lactoferrin. You can find an overview of these topics on our page Donkey milk in research.
It is important to put this in context: studies on composition describe what is in the milk. They are not a recommendation for people with allergies and do not replace a medical assessment.
Why we do not show testimonials about allergies
Many reports can be found online from people who have tried donkey milk with an allergy. Such individual reports cannot be generalized to others. Every body reacts differently, and an allergy can run severe in individual cases. That is why we do not publish testimonials on this topic and do not give recommendations for people with allergies.
What we can give you is factual information about the composition: donkey milk contains about 1.5–1.9 g of protein and 6–7 g of lactose per 100 ml. You can take this information with you to a conversation with your doctor. You can find the binding ingredient and allergen information on the label.
Babies and children
Donkey milk is not a substitute for breast milk or infant formula. Please do not give it to babies as a milk food. If you are considering incorporating donkey milk into your child's diet, speak with your pediatrician beforehand – especially if an allergy or intolerance is known. The same applies during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions
Is donkey milk hypoallergenic?
This statement cannot be made generally. Donkey milk contains milk protein. Anyone who has a milk protein allergy should consult a doctor beforehand to clarify whether donkey milk is suitable.
Is donkey milk lactose-free?
No. Donkey milk contains about 6–7 g of lactose per 100 ml and thus more than cow's milk.
Can I give donkey milk to my baby?
Donkey milk is not a substitute for breast milk or infant formula. If you have questions about your child's diet, please contact your pediatrician.
How do I know which ingredients are contained?
The information on ingredients and allergens on the label is decisive.
Is donkey milk an alternative for lactose intolerance?
No. With about 6–7 g of lactose per 100 ml, donkey milk contains more milk sugar than cow's milk. If you have lactose intolerance, please speak with your doctor beforehand.
Donkey milk is a food and not a medicine. If you have health questions, please contact your doctor.
