ESC19 Head Start introduces a2/a2 natural protein milk

ESC19 Head Start Serving A2/A2 Natural Protein Milk
Posted on 10/10/2025

ESC19 Head Start Now Serves A2/A2 Natural Protein Milk for Healthier, Easier Digestion

Children enrolled in the ESC Region 19 Head Start program can now enjoy all the taste and nutrition of milk without the discomfort that some experience from dairy. Head Start Nutrition Services recently began serving Sarah Fresh A2/A2 All-Natural Protein Milk, a product that, according to the company, is easier to digest and rich in nutrients that support children’s healthy development.

The new milk, provided by Sarah Fresh, contains only the A2/A2 beta-casein protein, which, according to the company’s product information, may be gentler on digestion than traditional milk that contains the A1 protein. Sarah Fresh notes that the A1 protein found in most milk today can cause inflammation and symptoms such as lactose intolerance in some individuals.

“Here at Sarah Fresh we are so happy to see the way our community is benefitting from A2/A2 milk.  Many people that have had problems digesting milk in the past are thanking us for providing this milk,” says Patrick Byrne, Sarah Fresh GH Dairy El Paso Managing Director.

The addition of A2/A2 Natural Protein Milk also supports the ESC19 Head Start Health Services’ commitment to promoting overall wellness among children.

“We’re always looking for ways to provide nutritious options that meet the needs of every child,” said Rebecca Beard, ESC19 Head Start Nutrition Services Program Manager. “By introducing Sarah Fresh A2/A2 Milk, we’re ensuring that children who may be sensitive to traditional milk can still benefit from calcium, protein, and vitamins essential for development.”

The program receives its dairy from Sarah Fresh, which promotes a “grass to glass in 24 hours” process to ensure freshness and quality.

“Good nutrition plays a vital role in a child’s ability to learn and thrive,” Beard added. “We’re proud to partner with Sarah Fresh to provide milk that not only tastes great but also supports children’s comfort and well-being.”

According to Sarah Fresh, A2/A2 Natural Protein Milk supports nutrient absorption and contributes to strong bones, heart health, and energy, while being easier to digest for those with milk sensitivities. The company emphasizes that good nutrition shouldn’t come with a premium price tag, a philosophy reflected in its decision to offer A2/A2 milk to schools and Head Start programs at the exact cost as conventional milk.

“We believe that quality nutrition should be for everyone and not just for those who can afford it. This is the reason we have offered it to all schools and Head Start programs for the same price as conventional milk.  The kids are our future, and we want to invest in them,” says Bryne.

The change is another step in Head Start’s mission to give every child a healthy foundation for lifelong learning.