Lactose-Free and Low-Fat Cheese, What to Know

Good news for cheese lovers, lactose intolerance doesn’t have to end your cheese story. Many cheeses naturally contain little to no lactose.

As cheese ages, lactose is broken down by cultures. That means aged cheeses like cheddar, gouda, parmesan, and manchego are often well-tolerated by lactose-sensitive folks. Sheep’s milk cheese can also be easier to digest thanks to its fat structure.

When it comes to low-fat cheese, flavor can vary. Removing fat changes texture and mouthfeel, so we always recommend choosing quality over quantity. A smaller portion of full-flavor artisan cheese is often more satisfying than a large portion of something bland.

If you’re navigating dietary needs, ask questions, taste when possible, and don’t assume cheese is off the table, because it usually isn’t.