Use of Non-Jewish Milk
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Question
Dear Rabbi, My husband insists that he is not willing to consume non-Jewish milk, and I don't understand what the issue is. This is really breaking up our marriage.
Answer
Dear ...!
Regardless of the halachic aspect, a marriage should not be broken over a dispute about consuming a particular type of food. Even if your husband decides to abstain from certain foods for ethical reasons, such as being vegan, animal rights, or any other trend, it should not affect your relationship. This is especially true when it comes to matters of Jewish law, even if he is trying to follow the most stringent opinions.
It is reasonable to assume that this issue is merely a trigger, and professional counseling is needed to resolve the root problem in your marriage.
The sages prohibited the consumption of milk produced without Jewish supervision. However, there are authorities who argue that if there is appropriate government oversight, such milk may be permitted. The most prominent sage who allowed such milk is Rabbi Moshe Feinstein. Based on his ruling, the Rabbanut in Israel supervises products made from such milk and provides kosher certification with a warning that the certification is only valid for those who consume non-Jewish milk. However, Rabbi Feinstein himself insisted on being very careful with the use of such milk and emphasized the importance of using milk supervised by Jews, as it contributes to better character traits. He even ruled that a yeshiva in severe financial difficulty should not use non-Jewish milk, even though its price in the United States is significantly lower than that of Jewish-supervised milk, because yeshivas are obligated to provide students with milk that will contribute to their good character.
On the other hand, there are many halachic authorities who believe there is an absolute prohibition on non-Jewish milk, even if it is produced by companies under strict government supervision. This is especially true in Israel, where the issue mainly concerns luxury items like sweets, rather than basic food products. It is certainly commendable that your husband wants to observe Jewish law according to all opinions.
Source
Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 115); Igrot Moshe (Yoreh De'ah, Part 1, Siman 46).