Ingredient · Updated

Lactose

Neutral in 12

Found in 12 productsSee all

What is Lactose?

Lactose is a naturally occurring sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is composed of two simpler sugars, glucose and galactose, which are linked together.

Lactose is commonly used in baby formulas and processed foods such as candies and cereals to add sweetness and enhance flavor. Some individuals are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose, which can lead to digestive discomfort when consuming it.

When you see lactose on a label, it's an indication that the product contains dairy or a component derived from dairy. Those with lactose intolerance should be mindful of its presence to avoid potential digestive issues.

Commonly found in: candies, cereals, baby formulas, baked goods, dairy products

What to watch

  • Lactose intolerance can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea in affected individuals.

Benefits

  • Provides a natural source of energy from milk and dairy products.
FDA

Lactose is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its use as a food ingredient.

Research

Research indicates that lactose intolerance affects some individuals, but lactose can be a beneficial source of energy for others who can digest it.

Vegan

Lactose is derived from milk, making it unsuitable for a vegan diet.

Sources: Substances Generally Recognized as Safe

Scout's take

Milk sugar filler.

The case against

May cause digestive issues in individuals with lactose intolerance.

from the analysis of Miss Vickies Smokehouse BBQ Potato Chips 1.375 Ounce Plastic Bag

The case for

Provides energy and is a natural component of milk.

from the analysis of Favorite Day Peanut Butter Chocolate Trail Mix

Provides energy as a natural sugar found in milk.

from the analysis of Lay's Stax Sour Cream & Onion Potato Chips

More from Scout's analyses

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

from the analysis of Similac Gold Infant Formula Powder

Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk, providing energy. It is less processed than refined sugars but can cause digestive issues in lactose-intolerant individuals. Its presence in dairy products is natural and expected.

from the analysis of Milky Way Chocolate Stars Cereal

Lactose is a sugar found in milk, providing energy and aiding in calcium absorption. It can cause digestive issues in lactose-intolerant individuals. Its nutritional impact is primarily as a carbohydrate source.

from the analysis of Lot Of 2 Choceur Aldi Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups Bag Fair Trade

All 12 products with Lactose

Where Lactose shows up

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