Sensitive Ingredients: Lactose
An increasing number of customers will ask, “Is this product lactose-free?” This Job Guide will give you a basic
understanding of lactose intolerance and how it relates to your department’s products.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
•• People with lactose intolerance lack sufficient enzyme (lactase) in their digestive system to
digest the sugar (lactose) in milk.
•• Lactose intolerance is more common in adults than in children.
•• There is a higher incidence of lactose intolerance in people of African, Asian, Hispanic,
Native American, and Mediterranean descent.
•• About 30 million adults in the United States have some degree of lactose intolerance.
How Does This Affect My Customers?
Digestive upset, ranging from mild to severe, occurs after consuming products containing
lactose.
Where Is Lactose Found?
Lactose is found in most dairy products. It may also be found in any product containing milk or milk by-products like:
•• Baked goods
•• Margarine
•• Processed meats
•• Salad dressing
•• Baking mixes
•• Non-dairy whipped topping
•• Protein powders
How Will Lactose Be Listed On Product Labels?
Any of these ingredients may indicate the presence of lactose:
•• Buttermilk
•• Whey
•• Malted milk
•• Dry milk solids
•• Non-fat (or fat-free) dry milk powder
•• Milk by-products
•• Curds
•• Lactose
•• Milk
•• Milk chocolate
Is Lactose Intolerance an Allergy to Milk and Other Dairy Products?
No. An allergy to milk and other dairy products is a reaction to casein, the protein in milk. An allergy can be
life-threatening.
Can People With Lactose Intolerance Eat Dairy Products?
Small amounts of dairy products may be tolerated. Yogurt and hard, aged cheeses, such as Parmesan, are better tolerated than
other dairy products, because they contain less lactose. Lactose-intolerant consumers may also find reduced-lactose or lactosefree milks in the dairy case. Soy milk or rice milk are naturally lactose-free. Tell your customers to always check the label.
Product Ingredient Information
•• Some customers will ask you for this information to make informed decisions.
•• Know where to find labels or product ingredient information to give them.
•• DO NOT use this information to make health recommendations. Let customers decide.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this Job Guide has been compiled from sources and documents believed to be reliable and represents the best professional judgment of International Dairy-Deli-Bakery Association (IDDBA). However, the accuracy of the information presented is not guaranteed, nor is any responsibility assumed or implied by IDDBA for any damage or loss resulting from inaccuracies or omissions.
© 2010, 2013 International Dairy•Deli•Bakery Association™
608-310-5000 | www.iddba.org
May be reproduced if source is included.