I learned in a nutrition class that chemical derivatives are very, very far removed from their original state. The only difference betwen what's called "natural flavors" and "artificial flavors" is where they came from. These "flavors" are broken down to molecules and can be identical to each other in structure. Yet since one comes from a plant and the other comes from a man-made substance, they are labeled "natural" and "artificial", respectively. Both are derived in labratory environments.
I'm sure the same is true for Sodium Casseinate. The FDA says it's so far removed that it is no longer dairy, and that makes sense.
Quote:
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Sodium caseinate also is not a source of lactose."
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So from a "I'm avoiding dairy because my body hates dairy" standpoint, this chemical (it's nothing but a chemical at this point) isn't a problem.
But from a "I avoid dairy because I'm against the enslavement of cows" standpoint, it's still on your no-no list.
I'd be interested what the Rabbinical point of view would be. We were not cautioned against certain chemicals.