Navigating Kraft's Lactose-Free Cheese Landscape
For many years, people with lactose intolerance assumed that giving up dairy cheese was a necessity. However, advances in cheesemaking and the development of plant-based products have made it easier to enjoy cheese without discomfort. Kraft, a major player in the dairy industry, has adapted to this demand by offering a variety of choices for those avoiding lactose. This includes products that are naturally lactose-free due to the aging process, as well as specially formulated plant-based alternatives and those with added lactase enzyme. Understanding the different types of lactose-free products available is key to making the best choice for your dietary needs.
The Science Behind Naturally Low-Lactose Cheese
The most common way for dairy cheese to become lactose-free is through the natural cheesemaking process. Lactose, the natural sugar in milk, is largely contained in the whey portion of the milk. During cheesemaking, the milk is curdled, and the liquid whey is drained away from the solid curds. The longer a cheese is aged, the more lactose is broken down by bacteria into lactic acid, which further reduces its concentration. By the time many hard, aged cheeses are ready for consumption, they contain zero grams of lactose per serving and are well-tolerated by many people with lactose intolerance.
Kraft's Natural Dairy Cheese Offerings
For those who prefer real dairy cheese, Kraft offers numerous products with labels indicating "0g lactose per serving." This includes many of their hard and shredded cheeses. By checking the nutritional information on the back of the package, consumers can easily identify these suitable products.
- Naturally Lactose-Free Kraft Cheeses:
- Many shredded and block cheddar varieties
- Finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- Many shredded and sliced Colby Jack varieties
- Aged cheeses under the Cracker Barrel brand (owned by Kraft)
These products use the natural aging process to eliminate lactose, providing a true dairy cheese experience without digestive upset for many individuals. It is important to note that the degree of lactose intolerance varies, so some individuals may need to check their personal tolerance levels.
The Rise of Plant-Based 'Not Cheese'
In recent years, Kraft-Heinz has partnered with the food-tech company NotCo to introduce a line of plant-based products under the brand name "The Kraft Heinz Not Company." This venture was created to offer dairy-free alternatives that mimic the taste and texture of their iconic cheese products.
- Key features of Not Cheese:
- Developed using AI technology to replicate the flavor and texture of dairy cheese
- Ingredients often include coconut oil, chickpea protein, and corn starch
- Dairy-free, and therefore 100% lactose-free
- Available in different styles, including slices and mac & cheese
This is a suitable option for those who have a severe lactose intolerance, a milk allergy, or follow a vegan diet. It's crucial to understand the difference between lactose-free (which can still be dairy) and dairy-free (which is entirely plant-based).
Products with Added Lactase Enzyme
Some Kraft products are specially formulated to be lactose-free by adding the lactase enzyme during the cheesemaking process. This enzyme breaks down the lactose into simpler, more digestible sugars, making the cheese suitable for lactose-intolerant consumers.
- Examples of enzyme-treated Kraft products:
- Kraft Lactose-Free Shredded Cheeses
- Kraft Lactose-Free String Cheese
- International variants like Kraft Sottilette Lactose-Free Sliced Cheese
These options ensure that the consumer gets the familiar taste and consistency of Kraft cheese, with the added benefit of being digestible for those who lack the lactase enzyme naturally.
Comparison of Kraft Lactose-Free Cheese Options
| Feature | Naturally Low-Lactose Kraft Dairy Cheese | Lactase-Added Kraft Dairy Cheese | Kraft NotCheese (Plant-Based) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Real dairy milk | Real dairy milk | Plant-based ingredients |
| Lactose Content | 0g per serving due to aging | 0g per serving due to added lactase | 0g (no dairy) |
| Cheesemaking Method | Natural aging and fermentation | Added lactase enzyme | AI-driven plant-based formulation |
| Best For | Mild to moderate lactose intolerance | Those seeking guaranteed lactose-free dairy cheese | Severe intolerance, milk allergy, or vegan diet |
| Taste/Texture | Classic aged dairy cheese flavor | Familiar Kraft cheese taste | Mimics dairy but may differ slightly |
| Availability | Widely available (check label) | Available in designated packages | Increasingly available in specialty sections |
Making the Right Choice for Your Diet
Deciding which Kraft product is right for you depends on your specific needs. If your intolerance is mild, you may find that many of Kraft’s naturally aged hard cheeses cause no issues. However, if your sensitivity is high, opting for the explicitly labeled lactase-added dairy cheeses or the fully plant-based NotCheese line is the safest bet. Always read the packaging carefully, looking for specific terms like "0g lactose per serving" or indications that the product is plant-based.
It is also worth exploring the wider variety of lactose-free dairy products and non-dairy alternatives that are becoming more prevalent on the market. Many smaller and artisan cheese makers, like Cabot Creamery, also produce naturally lactose-free cheeses. Being an informed shopper is the best way to enjoy your favorite cheesy recipes without the worry of digestive issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question, "Does Kraft make lactose free cheese?" can be answered with a confident yes. The options are varied, from naturally aged dairy cheeses containing zero grams of lactose to specially treated dairy versions and entirely plant-based alternatives. This variety ensures that consumers with different levels of lactose intolerance and dietary preferences can find a suitable Kraft product. By understanding the cheesemaking processes involved and carefully checking product labels, you can continue to enjoy cheesy meals with confidence and comfort.
References
- : Lactose Intolerance
- : Looking for Kraft’s Vegan Cheese Singles? Here Is Where to Find ...
- : How to Eat Cheese When You're Lactose Intolerant
- : What Is Lactose-Free Cheese? | Types & Options | Arla UK
What's the Difference Between Low and Lactose-Free Cheese?
Low-lactose cheese contains a significantly reduced amount of lactose (usually less than 1g per 100g), while lactose-free cheese contains virtually no lactose (less than 10mg per 100g), often achieved by adding the lactase enzyme or through the cheesemaking process.
What is the Kraft Heinz Not Company?
The Kraft Heinz Not Company is a joint venture between Kraft Heinz and the food technology company NotCo, created to develop and market plant-based, dairy-free alternatives to popular Kraft products, including cheese and mac and cheese.
Are Kraft Singles Lactose-Free?
No, Kraft Singles are a processed cheese product that contains lactose and are generally not suitable for people with lactose intolerance. However, the Kraft Heinz Not Company has developed plant-based, dairy-free versions of their classic Singles.
