Is Kraft Cheese Really Lactose Free?

Is Kraft Cheese Really Lactose Free?

If you are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to lactose, finding suitable dairy products can be a challenge. One popular option that many people turn to is Kraft Cheese.

But is Kraft Cheese really lactose-free? Let’s dive into the details and find out!

Understanding Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance occurs when your body does not produce enough of the enzyme called lactase, which is needed to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. When lactose is not properly broken down, it can cause symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

The Claim: Kraft Cheese Is Lactose-Free

Kraft Foods claims that their cheese products are lactose-free. This means that they have taken steps to remove or reduce the amount of lactose present in their cheese. But how exactly do they achieve this?

Lactase Enzyme

In order to make their cheese lactose-free, Kraft Foods adds an enzyme called lactase during the production process. Lactase helps break down the lactose into simpler forms of sugar that are easier to digest for individuals who are lactose intolerant.

Natural Aging Process

Another method used by Kraft Foods to reduce the lactose content in their cheese is through natural aging. During this aging process, bacteria naturally present in the cheese convert some of the lactose into lactic acid. This conversion reduces the overall amount of lactose in the final product.

Types of Kraft Cheese That Are Lactose-Free

While Kraft Cheese generally aims to be low in lactose or completely lactose-free, it’s essential to note that not all Kraft Cheese products fall under this category. Some varieties may still contain trace amounts of lactose, which could potentially cause discomfort for individuals with severe lactose intolerance.

Here are some popular lactose-free options from Kraft Cheese:

• Kraft Cheddar Cheese: This classic cheddar cheese is known for its rich flavor and is typically low in lactose. It can be a suitable choice for those with mild lactose intolerance.
• Kraft Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is naturally lower in lactose compared to other types of cheese.

  Kraft’s mozzarella cheese can be a good option if you’re looking for a lactose-free alternative.

• Kraft Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is known for its sweet and nutty flavor. Kraft’s Swiss cheese is often well-tolerated by individuals with lactose intolerance due to its reduced lactose content.

It’s always important to read the product labels carefully before purchasing any Kraft Cheese product, as ingredients and formulations may vary.

Conclusion

While Kraft Foods makes efforts to produce cheese that is low in lactose or completely lactose-free, it’s crucial to remember that individual tolerances can vary. If you have severe lactose intolerance, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional or consider alternative dairy-free options.

In summary, some varieties of Kraft Cheese are indeed suitable for individuals with mild to moderate lactose intolerance. The addition of the enzyme lactase and the natural aging process helps reduce the overall amount of lactose in these products. However, if you have severe lactose intolerance or are unsure about your tolerance level, it’s best to exercise caution and opt for certified dairy-free alternatives.