European Lactose-Free Market Report 2017/2018 Report

THE EUROPEAN LACTOSE-FREE MARKET 2017/2018
§ Lactose intolerance here usually occurs in late childhood, when an infant becomes
less dependent on milk products. This intolerance may not emerge until early
adulthood.
§ This form of lactose intolerance tends to be permanent.
1.1.2 SECONDARY LACTASE DEFICIENCY
§ Lactose intolerance can also be caused by damage to the gut, which decreases
the production of lactase.
§ This can be caused by surgery, a medical condition or certain medications.
Lactase production often decreases with age, so lactose intolerance sometimes
occurs later in life.
§ This form of lactose intolerance can be temporary until the gut heals, but can be
long-term if cause by an ongoing condition.
1.1.3 CONGENITAL LACTASE DEFICIENCY
§ This is an uncommon genetic condition which means newborn infants cannot
digest lactose. Lactose-free infant formulas are available in these circumstances.
1.2 MILK ALLERGIES AND LACTOSE INTOLERANCE
Lactose intolerance is sometimes confused with a cows’ milk allergy. A milk allergy
occurs when the immune system reacts negatively to proteins found in cows’ milk,
creating antibodies. This can be a serious condition, with symptoms ranging from
digestive issues much like lactose intolerance, to anaphylactic shock.
People suffering from a cow’s milk allergy are advised to avoid all foods containing
dairy. However, those suffering from lactose-intolerance can still consume dairy as
long as it is lactose-free, or contains very low levels of lactose.
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