Can Cheese Be Lactose Free?
By Jumi Cheese UK • 8–10 min read
Cheese & DigestionLactoseAged CheeseMainland UK Delivery
Quick disclaimer: This article is educational only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have lactose intolerance, a milk allergy, IBS or other digestive concerns, always consult a medical professional.
Good news: many cheeses are naturally very low in lactose. During cheesemaking, most lactose drains away with the whey, and friendly bacteria break down much of the remainder. As cheeses age, remaining lactose continues to diminish.
How lactose changes during cheesemaking
Lactose is a natural milk sugar. In cheese, it typically reduces because:
- Whey drainage removes most of it early on
- Bacterial fermentation consumes remaining sugars
- Aging allows bacteria/enzymes to break it down further
This is why many aged cheeses are naturally very low in lactose.
Naturally low-lactose cheeses
Hard, aged cheeses are typically easier for lactose-sensitive individuals. Examples include:
- Gruyère (aged, nutty, alpine)
- Schlossberger (30 months) – naturally very low lactose
- Parmigiano Reggiano (30+ months)
- Comté (18–24 months)
- Aged Gouda
- Mature Cheddar
As lactose reduces with age, flavour increases — a delicious win-win.
Lactose levels by cheese type
| Cheese style | Typical lactose level |
|---|---|
| Aged hard cheese | Very low |
| Semi-hard cheese | Low |
| Soft fresh cheese | Moderate |
| Fresh dairy (milk, cream) | High |
Individual tolerances vary — always listen to your body.
Higher-lactose cheeses to approach with caution
Because these styles retain more whey, they usually contain more lactose:
- Mozzarella
- Ricotta
- Cream cheese
- Mascarpone
- Fromage frais
These may be less suitable if you’re sensitive.
Goat & sheep cheese digestibility
Some people find goat and sheep cheeses easier to digest. This isn’t necessarily because of lactose, but because milk proteins and fats differ slightly. Tolerance varies.
Lactose vs casein (important distinction)
Some discomfort blamed on lactose can actually be sensitivity to casein (milk protein) or histamines (common in aged cheeses). If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
Low-lactose cheese checklist
- Look for aged cheeses (12+ months)
- Choose hard or semi-hard styles
- Avoid soft, young cheeses
- Introduce slowly and observe digestion
- Keep portions moderate
Lactose-friendly options at Jumi
The following cheeses are naturally very low in lactose thanks to aging and fermentation:
Aged Swiss alpine cheese with deep flavour and very low lactose.
Naturally very low in lactose due to age and fermentation — ideal for cozy dinners.
Classic alpine cheese with a clean, nutty finish.
Order anywhere across mainland UK with free shipping over £40.
Learn more at a cheese event
Prefer to explore flavour and texture with guidance? Join our raclette & fondue nights in London for a delicious, educational evening.
Prefer to shop in person? Visit our London counters (Borough Market, Newington Green, Crouch End): find locations here.
FAQs
Can cheese be lactose-free?
Some cheeses are naturally very low in lactose due to whey drainage, fermentation and aging. Individual tolerances vary.
Are aged cheeses lower in lactose?
Generally yes. The longer a cheese ages, the less lactose remains.
Is fondue low in lactose?
Fondue made with aged alpine cheeses is typically very low in lactose.
Is this medical advice?
No. Always consult a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Many cheeses are naturally very low in lactose thanks to whey removal, fermentation and aging. However, tolerance varies from person to person. Always introduce new foods gradually and speak to a doctor if you have concerns.
Order Schlossberger 30 months or Swiss Fondue Packs with chilled mainland UK delivery and free shipping over £40.