Why does cheese contain lactose?
Lactose is the natural carbohydrate found in milk. During cheesemaking, a large portion of lactose is removed with the liquid whey but some lactose remains in the curd.
03 JUN 2026
Does Cheese Have Lactose? What You Should Know
Yes, cheese contains lactose because it is made from milk, which naturally contains lactose, a type of sugar found in milk. However, the amount of lactose in cheese varies based on how it’s processed.
Lactose levels differ by cheese type
The amount of lactose in cheese can vary depending on factors such as the manufacturing process, moisture content, and ageing period.
During cheese production, most of the lactose is removed with the whey after milk coagulation. The small amount of lactose retained in the cheese curd is further broken down by starter cultures during fermentation and, where applicable, throughout the ageing process.
As a result, aged or hard cheeses generally contain very low levels of lactose, while lactose content may vary among other cheese varieties depending on their production and maturation characteristics.
Scientific evidence indicates that residual lactose levels are influenced by the cheesemaking process, microbial activity, and the duration of fermentation and ageing, all of which contribute to the breakdown of lactose within the cheese matrix.
What this means for consumption
Britannia Laughing Cow Cheese products, such as slices, cubes, spreads, and blocks, are made from milk and therefore contain some lactose, though the amount may be lower in certain forms due to processing.
The key takeaway about lactose in cheese
Cheese naturally contains lactose because it is made from milk. However, the lactose level is usually lower than in milk. During cheese-making, a significant portion of lactose is removed with the whey, and the remaining amount may be further reduced during fermentation or ageing.
Because of this, different cheeses can contain different levels of lactose. In meals, cheese is commonly used in forms such as slices, cubes, spreads, or blocks for sandwiches, toast, or quick snacks.
Britannia The Laughing Cow Cheese is designed to be a convenient addition to your meals. Like all cheese products, it contains lactose and is therefore not suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant. If you have specific dietary concerns, please consult a healthcare professional before consumption.
