Dairy Allergen Guide

Information about Dairy in cuisine around the world.

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About Dairy

Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are common allergens. Dairy is widely used in Australian cuisine, from breakfast cereals to desserts. Most restaurants and cafes can accommodate dairy-free requests, and supermarkets offer a range of dairy-free alternatives, such as soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk.

High Prevalence Warning

Dairy is particularly common in the cuisine of: Italy, France, Greece, Spain, Germany, Turkey, Canada, Argentina, United States, Brazil, India, Mexico, South Africa, Sweden, Lebanon, New Zealand, Colombia, Russia, Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, Austria, Norway, Jordan

Common Foods Containing Dairy

Alpine cheesesAndean cheeses in many dishesArepas con quesoAyran (yogurt drink)Baked goodsBrunost (brown cheese)BurgersButterButter tartsButter-based saucesButtermilchBuñuelosChai teaCheeseCheese (Parmigiano, Mozzarella, etc.)Cheese dishesChocolateCoffee drinksCream in soups and dessertsCream saucesCreamy saucesCreamy soups and saucesDessertsDulce de lecheEdam cheeseEmpanadasEnchiladasFacturas (pastries)Feta cheeseFilmjölk (fermented milk)FlanGelatoGibna beida (white cheese)Gouda cheeseHot chocolate with cheeseHuancaína sauceIce creamIkivuguto (fermented milk)Indian-influenced dishes like roti prataIrish butterJameed (dried yogurt)Jareesh, SaleegKaiserschmarrnKefirKnafeh (cheese dessert)KoeksistersKäsespätzle (cheese noodles)Körözött (cheese spread)Labneh (strained yogurt)LassiMac and cheeseMalva puddingManchego cheeseMantiMany curriesMany saucesMany tacosMaple fudgeMeshMessmör (whey butter)MilkMilk in teaMilk tartMilk tea (bubble tea)Mongolian hot pot with milkMost sauces and soupsNanaimo barsNatillas (custard)Oscypek (smoked cheese)PandebonoPaneer dishesPaprikás dishesPastriesPizzaPoutine (cheese curds)ProvoletaQuarkQuesadillasQueso frescoQueso fundidoRayeb (yogurt)SachertorteSaganaki (fried cheese)SaucesShanklish (cheese)Smen (aged butter)Smetana (sour cream)Some dessertsSome modern dishes with cheeseSour cream in many dishesSour cream in soupsStroopwafels (often contain butter)SweetsSyrniki (cheese pancakes)Tejföl (sour cream in most dishes)Tvorog (cottage cheese)Twaróg (farmer's cheese)TzatzikiTúró (cottage cheese)Various cheesesVarious pastriesVästerbotten cheeseWestern fusion dishesWestern-style bakeriesWhite cheese (beyaz peynir)YogurtYogurt-based soupsZabadi (yogurt)

Foods That Contain Dairy

Chicken Parmigiana (Parma)

Chicken Parmigiana (Parma)

AU
Australia

A beloved Australian pub classic, the Chicken Parma is a hearty dish that showcases the country's love for comfort food. It starts with a tender chicken breast that's crumbed and pan-fried to golden perfection, then topped with a rich tomato sauce, premium ham, and a generous layer of melted cheese - typically a mix of mozzarella and parmesan. Served alongside crispy chips (fries) and a fresh garden salad, it's a satisfying meal that's become a staple in pubs and restaurants across the country. The dish has evolved to include various creative variations, with some venues offering unique toppings or modifications to suit different dietary preferences.

Contains:

WheatDairyEggs
Pavlova

Pavlova

AU
Australia

The Pavlova is an iconic Australian dessert that perfectly balances textures and flavors. Named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, this elegant creation features a crisp meringue shell that gives way to a marshmallow-soft interior. The meringue base is typically topped with freshly whipped cream and an array of seasonal fruits, particularly passion fruit, strawberries, kiwi, and mango. The dessert's popularity peaks during summer and holiday celebrations, particularly Christmas, when it often takes center stage on dining tables across the country. The combination of sweet meringue, creamy topping, and tart fruits creates a harmonious blend that's distinctly Australian.

Contains:

EggsDairy
Tim Tam

Tim Tam

AU
Australia

Australia's iconic chocolate biscuit consisting of two malted biscuits separated by chocolate cream filling, coated in chocolate. The famous Tim Tam Slam involves biting opposite corners and using it as a straw for hot drinks. Over 45 million packets sold annually - a true Australian institution.

Contains:

WheatDairySoy
Moreton Bay Bugs

Moreton Bay Bugs

AU
Australia

Slipper lobsters found in Australian waters, particularly Queensland's Moreton Bay. Sweet, delicate white flesh with less pronounced flavor than rock lobster. Simply grilled or barbecued with garlic butter. Prized delicacy in Australian seafood cuisine despite the unappetizing name.

Contains:

ShellfishDairy
Fairy Bread

Fairy Bread

AU
Australia

Children's party staple and nostalgic favorite - white bread with butter and rainbow sprinkles (hundreds and thousands). Simple yet beloved treat at Australian birthday parties for generations. The epitome of Australian unpretentious food culture.

Contains:

WheatDairy
Lamingtons

Lamingtons

AU
Australia

Sponge cake squares dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. Often filled with jam or cream. Named after Lord Lamington, Queensland governor (1896-1901). National cake of Australia, found at every bakery and fundraising stall.

Contains:

WheatDairyEggs

Tips for Avoiding Dairy

Learn Local Terms

Before traveling, learn how to say "Dairy allergy" in the local language.

Carry Allergy Card

Carry a card in the local language explaining your allergy to show at restaurants.

Research Typical Dishes

Research common dishes in your destination to identify those that typically contain Dairy.

Pack Emergency Medication

Always carry any necessary allergy medication, including antihistamines or an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.