What allergen is lactose associated with?

Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products, which makes it directly associated with the milk allergen. People who are lactose intolerant do not produce sufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme required to break down lactose, leading to gastrointestinal issues when they consume dairy. While individuals may have different sensitivities or allergies to various foods, lactose itself is specifically linked to milk, as it originates from this food source. Understanding this connection is crucial for food service professionals, especially when preparing meals for individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies related to dairy. It’s important to distinguish between lactose intolerance, which is a reaction to sugar, and milk allergies, which can involve proteins in milk such as casein and whey.