Ingredient
Lactose
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.
Lactose is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its use as a food ingredient.
Research indicates that lactose intolerance affects some individuals, but lactose can be a beneficial source of energy for others who can digest it.
Lactose is derived from milk, making it unsuitable for a vegan diet.
Scout's take
Milk sugar filler.
The case against
May cause digestive discomfort in lactose-intolerant individuals.
from the analysis of Favorite Day Peanut Butter Chocolate Trail Mix · echoed in 1 other analysisMay cause digestive issues in individuals with lactose intolerance.
from the analysis of Miss Vickies Smokehouse BBQ Potato Chips 1.375 Ounce Plastic BagThe case for
Provides energy and is a natural component of milk.
from the analysis of Favorite Day Peanut Butter Chocolate Trail MixProvides energy as a natural sugar found in milk.
from the analysis of Lay's Stax Sour Cream & Onion Potato ChipsProvides a source of energy from carbohydrates.
from the analysis of Miss Vickies Smokehouse BBQ Potato Chips 1.375 Ounce Plastic BagMore from Scout's analyses
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of Similac Gold Infant Formula PowderLactose 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 CerealLactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is used as a sweetener and can be a concern for those with lactose intolerance. In small amounts, it is generally neutral in terms of health impact.
from the analysis of Miss Vickies Smokehouse BBQ Potato Chips 1.375 Ounce Plastic BagFound in 11 products
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