Can Lactose Intolerants Eat Coleslaw?

January 6, 2026 •

2 min read

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, approximately 68% of the world's population is lactose intolerant. For those with this condition, navigating creamy dishes can be tricky, which often leads to the question, 'Can lactose intolerants eat coleslaw?' The answer lies in the specific ingredients used for the dressing.

Quick Summary

Many coleslaw recipes are safe for lactose-intolerant individuals, as traditional mayonnaise is dairy-free. However, some versions include milk, buttermilk, or sour cream, which should be avoided. The key is to check ingredient labels for store-bought coleslaw or use dairy-free alternatives when preparing it at home.

Key Points

Check the Dressing: The primary concern for lactose intolerants with coleslaw is the dressing, not the cabbage and carrots.
Mayonnaise is Usually Dairy-Free: Traditional mayonnaise is made from eggs and oil, and does not contain lactose, but always read the ingredients.
Beware of Buttermilk and Cream: Some creamy coleslaw recipes add dairy products like buttermilk, milk, or sour cream, which should be avoided.
Opt for Vinaigrette: Vinegar-based coleslaws are naturally dairy-free and a safe, tangy alternative.
Homemade is Safest: The best way to ensure your coleslaw is lactose-free is to make it yourself using a trusted, dairy-free recipe.
Explore Vegan Alternatives: Many vegan mayonnaise and coleslaw options are widely available and guaranteed to be dairy-free.
Read Labels Carefully: Always scrutinize the ingredient list of any pre-made coleslaw or dressing for hidden dairy products.

Understanding the Ingredients: Is Coleslaw Safe for You?

When wondering, "Can lactose intolerants eat coleslaw?", the focus should be on the creamy dressing rather than the main ingredients. The base of coleslaw—shredded cabbage and carrots—is naturally lactose-free and full of fiber. The potential issue arises with the dressing, which can be either mayonnaise-based or vinaigrette-based.

Traditional Mayonnaise is Dairy-Free

Traditional mayonnaise is generally safe as it's made from oil, egg yolks, and an acid, none of which contain lactose. Most commercial brands are suitable for lactose intolerance. However, always check labels for added dairy ingredients like milk, whey, or casein.

The Dairy-Filled Culprits

Creamy coleslaw dressings sometimes include dairy products to enhance texture and flavor. Ingredients such as buttermilk or sour cream are common culprits.

How to Enjoy Coleslaw Safely

Navigating Store-Bought Coleslaw

Carefully read the ingredient label on store-bought coleslaw, especially the dressing. Look for vinaigrette-based options for a tangy, dairy-free alternative. Vegan coleslaws are also guaranteed to be dairy-free.

Making Lactose-Free Coleslaw at Home

Making coleslaw at home offers the most control over ingredients.

Delicious Dairy-Free Dressing Options

A simple dressing can be made with dairy-free mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings. Vinaigrette dressings using oil and vinegar are also naturally dairy-free. Alternatively, use vegan mayo made from ingredients like cashews or avocado oil for creaminess.

Comparison Table: Coleslaw Dressings for Lactose Intolerance


Feature	Mayonnaise-Based	Vinaigrette-Based	Vegan Mayo-Based
Dairy Status	Often Lactose-Free (Check Label)	Naturally Lactose-Free	Guaranteed Lactose-Free
Texture	Rich and Creamy	Tangy and Crisp	Creamy, similar to traditional mayo
Common Ingredients	Mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt	Vinegar, oil, sugar, spices	Vegan mayo, vinegar, spices
Best For...	Classic, traditional flavor	Light, zesty side dish	Those wanting a creamy flavor without dairy
Risk of Hidden Dairy	Possible (in some brands)	Very Low	None

A Sample Dairy-Free Coleslaw Recipe

A simple dairy-free coleslaw recipe involves preparing shredded cabbage and carrots, making a dressing with dairy-free mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper, and then combining the two. For detailed instructions on preparing a simple coleslaw, refer to {Link: facebook.com https://www.facebook.com/TheFarmStandBobier/posts/homestyle-coleslaw-12-cup-mayonnaise13-cup-milk1-teaspoon-white-vinegar14-cup-su/2698873917024845/}.

Conclusion: Coleslaw can be enjoyed by lactose intolerants

While coleslaw's cabbage and carrots are lactose-free, the dressing dictates whether it's suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Traditional mayonnaise is typically dairy-free, but it's essential to check labels for hidden dairy. Opting for vinaigrette-based coleslaw, vegan versions, or making your own ensures a delicious and comfortable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

It can. While many store-bought coleslaws use traditional mayonnaise, some brands or specific recipes, like those labeled 'creamy,' may include buttermilk, milk, or sour cream. Always check the ingredient list on the packaging.

Coleslaw made with a standard, dairy-free mayonnaise or a vinaigrette-based dressing is safe. Vegan coleslaw is also a guaranteed dairy-free option. When in doubt, making a homemade version is the safest choice.

Yes, traditional mayonnaise is dairy-free. It is made from eggs, oil, and vinegar or lemon juice, none of which are dairy products. The eggs are not dairy, and most commercial mayonnaise brands do not contain milk.

You can substitute buttermilk with a variety of dairy-free options. Mixing a tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar with dairy-free milk and letting it stand for a few minutes can create a similar tangy effect.

You should ask the server or chef about the ingredients in the dressing. Some restaurants use pre-made coleslaw mixes that contain dairy, while others might make it with a simple, dairy-free mayonnaise. When unsure, a simple vinaigrette-based salad is a safer option.

Yes, several vegan alternatives are available. You can find vegan mayonnaise in most grocery stores, or you can make a creamy dressing at home using soaked cashews or tahini as a base.

Creamy coleslaw typically uses a mayonnaise-based dressing, which can sometimes include dairy. Vinaigrette coleslaw uses an oil and vinegar-based dressing, which is naturally dairy-free and has a tangier flavor and crisper texture.