The Core Difference: Boxed vs. Homemade
When considering if Cabot mac and cheese has lactose, it's crucial to distinguish between the boxed product and a homemade version using Cabot's naturally lactose-free aged cheeses. The confusion often stems from Cabot's well-known reputation for producing naturally lactose-free aged cheeses, like their cheddar varieties. These cheeses are safe for most individuals with lactose intolerance. However, the boxed macaroni and cheese dinner is a different story, as its cheese sauce relies on a powdered blend that includes lactose-containing ingredients.
Why Aged Cabot Cheddar is Naturally Lactose-Free
Cabot's aged cheddars are celebrated for being a safe cheese option for those with lactose intolerance. This is the result of a precise cheesemaking process. During production, microbial-based enzymes are used to separate the milk into curds and whey. Most of the lactose is carried away with the whey, which is drained off. The small amount of lactose that remains in the curds is then broken down over time as the cheese ages. After several weeks of aging, the lactose content becomes virtually undetectable, resulting in 0 grams of lactose per serving for their cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, and Muenster cheeses.
The Ingredients in Boxed Cabot Mac and Cheese
In contrast to their natural cheeses, Cabot's boxed mac and cheese dinner contains dairy ingredients that have not undergone the same lactose-removing process. For example, ingredients for their original American mac and cheese include whey, cream, and nonfat dry milk. These are all dairy-based components that contain lactose, making the final product unsuitable for those with a lactose intolerance. It's essential for consumers to read the allergen information on the packaging, which clearly lists 'milk' as a contained allergen.
Making Your Own Lactose-Free Mac and Cheese
For those who love Cabot cheese but need to avoid lactose, creating a homemade version is the best solution. The Cabot Creamery website offers multiple recipes that call for their naturally lactose-free cheeses, along with other lactose-free ingredients like lactose-free milk and butter. This gives you complete control over the finished product.
A Simple Lactose-Free Recipe Using Cabot Products
- Ingredients
- Uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
- Lactose-free butter
- All-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
- Lactose-free milk (such as lactose-free 2% or whole milk)
- Grated Cabot aged cheddar (e.g., Extra Sharp or Seriously Sharp)
- Salt, pepper, and dry mustard to taste
- Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Melt lactose-free butter and whisk in flour to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in lactose-free milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Cabot cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta and serve immediately.
Boxed vs. Homemade: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Boxed Cabot Mac and Cheese | Homemade with Cabot Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Lactose Content | Contains lactose (from whey and milk powder) | Naturally lactose-free (if using aged Cabot cheese and lactose-free dairy) |
| Primary Cheese Source | Powdered cheese blend with added ingredients | Naturally aged, grated Cabot cheese |
| Customization | Limited to adding your own ingredients | Fully customizable with choice of pasta, cheese, and milk |
| Preparation Time | Quick and convenient | Slightly longer, but offers more control |
| Best For | Convenience, non-lactose intolerant individuals | Lactose-intolerant individuals, those seeking fresh ingredients |
How to Find Lactose-Free Cabot Products
Cabot makes it easy to identify their lactose-free offerings. Their website clearly labels products that contain 0 grams of lactose per serving. They also state that their cheeses are naturally lactose-free, as indicated by the '0g Lactose' icon on their packaging. However, it's always best practice to check the full ingredient list of any packaged product, like the boxed mac and cheese, for added milk derivatives.
Conclusion
In summary, while Cabot Creamery produces several naturally lactose-free cheeses, their pre-packaged boxed mac and cheese does contain lactose. This is due to the ingredients used in the powdered cheese sauce, such as whey and milk powder. For individuals with lactose intolerance, enjoying a cheesy meal with Cabot requires either purchasing one of their naturally lactose-free aged cheeses, like cheddar, and making the dish from scratch, or following one of the specific lactose-free recipes available on their website. This allows you to savor the award-winning flavor of Cabot without worrying about a lactose reaction.
Visit the official Cabot website for more information on their naturally lactose-free cheeses.
