European Lactose-Free Market Report 2017/2018 Report

8. CONCLUSIONS
THE EUROPEAN LACTOSE-FREE MARKET 2017/2018
§ Lactose-intolerance is a non-allergenic condition, where the consumption of
lactose containing foods induces a range of digestive issues. This is caused by the
inability to produce the lactase enzyme in the gut.
§ The main treatment for lactose-intolerance is abstinence from dairy foods that
contain high levels of lactose. Not all dairy products contain the same lactose
concentrations. White milk contains high levels of lactose, whilst hard cheeses
contain almost none. Goat, cow and sheep milk all contain similar levels of lactose.
§ The prevalence of lactose intolerance differs across the world. Only 10% of people
from Northern European descent are lactose-intolerant, whilst populations
originally from South East Asia can have up to a 90% prevalence. This variation
has implications for the lactose-free market, especially when considering current
migration trends and export opportunities.
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§ Lactose-free products are not governed by specific regulations as, say, the glutenfree
sector, but are covered by a patchwork of legislation. In 2011, the European
Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that individual tolerances to lactose differ
largely, so a ‘safe’ threshold for lactose content in lactose-free food cannot be
prescribed. It is up to manufacturers to decide what constitutes lactose-free, with
lactose levels typically ranging from 0.1% to 0.01%.
§ Lactose-free cow’s milk is produced by removing lactose through filtration and
enzymatic technology. This is the same process used in sugar reduction
technology. Arla, a key player in the European lactose-free market, has
experienced good growth with their Lactofree range.
§ Plant-based milk alternatives, such as soya, almond and hazelnut milk, are
becoming more and more popular in Europe. These drinks are naturally lactosefree,
but are aimed at a wide range of consumers, including vegans, consumers
with milk allergies and intolerances, and people who perceive milk as being bad
for health or weight. Alpro, an important company in the sector, is experiencing
growth, especially in its range of luxury flavoured yoghurts.
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