How much lactose does buffalo milk have?

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

Although buffalo milk is known for its creamy texture and richness, many are surprised to learn that it contains a comparable amount of lactose to cow's milk, not less. This fact challenges the common misconception that it is inherently easier to digest for those with lactose sensitivity. The actual difference is often slight, though individual tolerance can vary greatly based on factors like digestion rate and the type of protein present.

Quick Summary

Buffalo milk contains a lactose percentage similar to or slightly higher than cow's milk, with typical ranges of 4.6–5.5% versus cow's 4.4–5.0%. Despite this, anecdotal reports suggest some individuals with mild lactose intolerance may find it easier to digest. This is not due to a lower lactose content but possibly related to differences in its fat and protein composition or digestion rate.

Key Points

Lactose levels are comparable: Buffalo milk typically has a similar or slightly higher percentage of lactose than cow's milk, ranging between 4.5% and 5.5%.
Not a low-lactose solution: The idea that buffalo milk is a suitable alternative for the lactose intolerant is a misconception, as it contains enough lactose to cause symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Higher fat content affects digestion: Its higher fat and protein composition might lead to a slower digestion process for some people, potentially masking or delaying symptoms of lactose intolerance.
Individual tolerance varies: Any perceived ease of digestion is likely anecdotal and varies person to person, not due to a universal low-lactose quality.
Safer alternatives exist: For diagnosed lactose intolerance, truly lactose-free milk or plant-based alternatives are the safest and most effective choices.
Protein type speculation: Some theories suggest the A2 beta-casein protein found in some buffalo milk may be easier to digest for some, but this is not scientifically proven to address lactose intolerance.

The Lactose Content Breakdown

According to nutritional data, the lactose content of buffalo milk typically falls within a range of 4.5% to 5.5%. This is comparable to, and sometimes slightly higher than, the lactose levels found in cow's milk, which usually range from 4.4% to 5.0%. The primary difference often lies in the overall composition, as buffalo milk is significantly higher in fat and total solids, which can influence how quickly the lactose is absorbed and processed by the body.

Comparing Lactose Levels: Buffalo Milk vs. Cow's Milk

Different studies present slightly varying figures, but a general trend is clear. One analysis shows buffalo milk with approximately 4.86% lactose, while raw cow's milk has around 4.7%. Other comparisons also highlight a higher lactose content in buffalo milk. For example, a nutrient comparison table indicates 13 grams of lactose per cup (244 ml) for buffalo milk, compared to 11 grams for whole cow's milk. This small but consistent difference is crucial for anyone monitoring their lactose intake.

Why Buffalo Milk Isn't a Low-Lactose Alternative

The idea that buffalo milk is a low-lactose alternative to cow's milk is a misconception. Its similar lactose levels mean it poses the same digestive challenges for individuals with true lactase deficiency. The perception of better digestibility for some might be attributed to other factors. Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that buffalo milk's higher fat and protein content may slow down the digestive process, allowing the body more time to break down the lactose that is present.

Factors Influencing Milk's Digestibility

For those with lactose intolerance, the issue isn't the milk itself, but the body's inability to produce enough lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose. The perception of easier digestion can stem from several non-lactose related factors:

Fat content: The higher fat content in buffalo milk may lead to a slower gastric emptying time. This means the milk moves through the digestive system more slowly, potentially allowing more time for limited lactase to act on the lactose.
Protein composition: While both milks contain casein protein, the structure can differ. Some anecdotal reports suggest that the A2 beta-casein protein found in some buffalo milk is easier to digest for some individuals than the A1 protein common in cow's milk, though scientific evidence for this is anecdotal and contested.
Other compositional differences: Buffalo milk's higher mineral and total solids content changes its overall buffering capacity and physical properties, which might subtly influence digestive comfort for some people.

Comparison Table: Buffalo Milk vs. Cow's Milk (Per 244ml Cup)


Nutrient	Buffalo Milk	Whole Cow's Milk
Calories	237	149
Fat	17 g	8 g
Protein	9 g	8 g
Lactose	13 g	11-12 g
Calcium	32% DV	21% DV
Water Content	~83%	~88%

Alternatives for Lactose Intolerance

For individuals with severe lactose intolerance, neither buffalo nor cow milk is an ideal choice, as both contain significant amounts of lactose. There are many truly lactose-free alternatives available:

Lactose-Free Milk: This is cow's milk with added lactase enzyme to break down the lactose before consumption.
Plant-Based Milks: Options like almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk are naturally lactose-free.
Fermented Dairy Products: For some, fermented dairy like yogurt and kefir can be easier to digest. The live bacterial cultures in these products can help break down some of the lactose.

Conclusion

In summary, buffalo milk does not contain a significantly lower amount of lactose than cow's milk. The belief that it is an inherently safe choice for those with lactose intolerance is a misunderstanding. While some individuals may experience less digestive discomfort, this is likely due to other compositional differences, such as higher fat content slowing digestion, rather than a lack of lactose. Anyone with lactose intolerance should approach buffalo milk with caution and consult a healthcare professional. For those seeking a truly lactose-free option, commercially available lactose-free milk or plant-based alternatives are the most reliable choices. For further details on the nutritional composition of various milks, consult reliable resources such as the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. While some people report finding buffalo milk easier on their stomach, it's not due to significantly lower lactose levels. The higher fat content might simply slow down digestion for some individuals, but it contains similar amounts of lactose to cow's milk.

The lactose content is very similar, with buffalo milk containing a comparable or slightly higher percentage than cow's milk. Studies show buffalo milk typically has 4.5–5.5% lactose, compared to 4.4–5.0% for cow's milk.

It is not recommended, especially for those with moderate to severe intolerance. Since buffalo milk contains a similar level of lactose to cow's milk, it can cause the same digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

This could be due to several factors unrelated to the lactose content. The higher fat level may slow digestion, or differences in protein composition (like A2 beta-casein) could play a role, although this is largely anecdotal.

Truly lactose-free options include plant-based milks (such as soy, almond, or oat milk) or commercial lactose-free milk, which is regular milk with added lactase enzyme.

No, it is not. A dairy allergy is a reaction to milk proteins, not lactose. Buffalo milk contains its own set of proteins that can cause allergic reactions, and some studies even suggest cross-reactivity with cow milk proteins.

Yes. Fermenting buffalo milk into products like yogurt or kefir can reduce the lactose content. The bacteria used in the fermentation process consume some of the lactose, making it easier for some people to digest.