What Is Lactose Free Yogurt? (and Why You Should Care)

Lactose-free yogurt is a dairy product that has had the lactose removed. Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Some people are lactose intolerant, which means they cannot digest lactose. This can cause symptoms such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Lactose-free yogurt is a good option for people who are lactose intolerant because it does not contain lactose.

How is Lactose-Free Yogurt Made?

There are two main ways to make lactose-free yogurt. One way is to add lactase enzyme to milk. Lactase enzyme breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose, which are two sugars that can be easily digested. The other way to make lactose-free yogurt is to use ultrafiltration. Ultrafiltration is a process that removes lactose from milk using a special membrane.

Benefits of Lactose-Free Yogurt

There are several benefits to eating lactose-free yogurt. These include:

• It is easier to digest for people who are lactose intolerant. Lactose-free yogurt does not contain lactose, so it is easier for people who are lactose intolerant to digest. This can help to reduce symptoms such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
• It is a good source of calcium. Yogurt is a good source of calcium, which is an important mineral for bone health. Lactose-free yogurt contains the same amount of calcium as regular yogurt.
• It is a good source of protein. Yogurt is a good source of protein, which is an essential nutrient for building and repairing tissues. Lactose-free yogurt contains the same amount of protein as regular yogurt.
• It is a good source of probiotics. Yogurt contains probiotics, which are live bacteria that are beneficial for gut health. Probiotics can help to improve digestion and boost the immune system. Lactose-free yogurt contains the same amount of probiotics as regular yogurt.

How to Choose Lactose-Free Yogurt

When choosing lactose-free yogurt, it is important to read the label carefully. Some lactose-free yogurts may contain small amounts of lactose. If you are very sensitive to lactose, you should choose a lactose-free yogurt that is labeled “lactose-free” or “low-lactose.”

How to Make Lactose-Free Yogurt at Home

You can also make lactose-free yogurt at home. To do this, you will need:

• 1 gallon of milk
• 1/2 cup of plain yogurt with live cultures
• 1/4 teaspoon of lactase enzyme

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Remove the milk from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the plain yogurt and lactase enzyme.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass jar or container.
5. Cover the jar or container and let it sit at room temperature for 8-12 hours, or until the yogurt has thickened.
6. Refrigerate the yogurt for at least 4 hours before eating.

Questions We Hear a Lot

• Is lactose-free yogurt safe for people who are allergic to milk?

> No, lactose-free yogurt is not safe for people who are allergic to milk. Lactose-free yogurt still contains milk proteins, which can trigger an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to milk.

• Is lactose-free yogurt as healthy as regular yogurt?

> Yes, lactose-free yogurt is as healthy as regular yogurt. It contains the same amount of calcium, protein, and probiotics.

• Can I use lactose-free yogurt in recipes that call for regular yogurt?

> Yes, you can use lactose-free yogurt in recipes that call for regular yogurt. It will work just as well and will not affect the taste of the recipe.

• Where can I find lactose-free yogurt?

> Lactose-free yogurt is available at most grocery stores and supermarkets. It is usually found in the dairy section.

• How long does lactose-free yogurt last?

> Lactose-free yogurt has the same shelf life as regular yogurt. It will typically last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator.