β-casomorphin-7: a review of occurrence, identification, techno-functionality, and effects on human health.
- 2026-02-21
- NPJ science of food 10(1)
- Abdelmoneim H Ali
- Mayssa Hachem
- Zain Najjar
- Shao-Quan Liu
- Gafar Babatunde Bamigbade
- Mutamed Ayyash
- PubMed: 41723165
- DOI: 10.1038/s41538-026-00762-2
Study Design
- Type
- Review
β-casomorphin-7 (βCM-7) is a bioactive peptide released after the digestion of β-casein A1 variant, mostly found in European cow breeds' milk. This review explores the occurrence, characteristics, identification, techno-functionality, and the potential health effects of βCM-7. It displays opioid-like properties because of its affinity for μ-opioid receptors, affecting both food texture and biological functions. βCM-7 has potential advantages on immune and gastrointestinal health; however, concerns persist regarding its adverse effects.