"Lactose-free" is not the same as "milk protein-free"

The difference in meaning

Lactose is a sugar found in milk. "Lactose-free" or "low-lactose" products usually have the lactose broken down or removed during processing, which suits people with lactose intolerance. But the milk protein is still there, so people with a cow's milk allergy can still react. On the other hand, some products state "milk protein-free" or use plant-based ingredients, and only these are relevant to the avoidance needs of a cow's milk allergy.

What to check first when shopping

• First check the ingredient list for milk protein sources such as whey, casein or milk powder
• Then check for warnings such as "may contain traces of milk"
• "Lactose-free" and "low-lactose" labels tell you about lactose content, not about avoiding protein
• If you have a confirmed diagnosis, ask your doctor or dietitian before using a new type of product for the first time

Do not treat the two as the same thing

Lactose intolerance and cow's milk allergy can occur together, and they are managed differently: the first can be adjusted by changing how much you take in and the form of the product, while the second needs strict avoidance of the allergenic protein and attention to nutritional alternatives. If you are not sure which one applies to you, see a doctor for assessment rather than judging by the product label alone.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.