Is Cheese Lactose Free?

Caution

Cheese is typically derived from milk and thus contains lactose. However certain cheeses are naturally low-in lactose. For example, cheddar, colby, Swiss, mozzarella, Monterey Jack and Parmigiano Reggiano may be suitable for certain individuals. Also, cheeses made from sheep and goat's milk are lower in lactose.

Cheese and the Lactose Free Diet

Cheese is a versatile dairy product made by coagulating milk protein casein. It comes in various flavors, textures, and forms, depending on the milk's origin, pasteurization process, butterfat content, bacteria and mold cultures, and aging process. Cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan are naturally lower in lactose due to their fermentation and aging processes, which reduce lactose content.

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