Understanding the 'Naturally Lactose-Free' Claim
Cabot Creamery, a cooperative of farm families, has become well-known for its award-winning cheddars. A key marketing point for these products is that they are naturally lactose-free. This is a result of the traditional cheese-making process. Lactose is a milk sugar found primarily in the liquid whey portion of milk. During cheesemaking, the curds are separated from the whey, removing a significant amount of the lactose. As the cheese ages, any remaining lactose is naturally broken down by enzymes. This process is what makes aged cheeses like cheddar virtually lactose-free and digestible for many with lactose intolerance, even though they are made from milk.
What About Boxed Shells and Cheese?
The critical distinction lies between Cabot's natural cheese blocks and their line of packaged products, such as shells and cheese. While the cheddar used in the recipe may be lactose-free, the entire product is not guaranteed to be. This is because boxed mac and cheese products often contain a powdered cheese sauce that includes other dairy ingredients besides the aged cheddar. These extra ingredients, such as additional whey, butter, or milk solids, can reintroduce lactose into the final product. Cabot's own customer service notes that their boxed macaroni and cheese is an exception to their general gluten-free offerings due to sourcing, suggesting different manufacturing standards for these processed items. Therefore, a person with lactose intolerance should not assume that the shells and cheese are as safe as the block cheddar.
Reading the Label: The Most Reliable Method
The most reliable way to confirm the lactose content of any dairy product is to check the nutritional information panel on the packaging. Since lactose is a type of sugar, if the product contains no sugar, it contains no lactose. For their naturally lactose-free cheeses, Cabot clearly labels the sugar content as "0g" per serving. If the shells and cheese product has any amount of sugar listed, or if the ingredient list includes things like "whey" or "milk solids," it is likely not lactose-free. Always read the label to be certain, especially since product formulas can change over time. For individuals with a severe sensitivity or a true milk protein allergy, these products should be avoided entirely.
Lactose-Free Alternatives for Shells and Cheese
For those who can't consume traditional shells and cheese due to lactose content, several alternatives are available. Some brands offer completely dairy-free mac and cheese made with plant-based cheeses. Another option is to create a homemade mac and cheese using Cabot's naturally lactose-free aged cheddar, lactose-free milk, and lactose-free butter. This provides a way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy pasta dish without the digestive discomfort.
A Comparative Look: Boxed vs. Homemade
| Feature | Boxed Shells and Cheese | Homemade (using Cabot Cheddar) |
|---|---|---|
| Lactose Content | Potentially high due to additives | Effectively lactose-free |
| Ingredients | Processed cheese powder, flavorings, stabilizers, potentially extra dairy | Natural, aged Cabot cheddar, fresh lactose-free milk/butter |
| Allergen Safety | High risk for sensitive individuals | Controlled by user, can be made completely dairy-free |
| Effort Level | Low, convenient, quick preparation | Higher, requires more active cooking |
| Flavor Profile | Often milder, processed flavor | Rich, natural aged cheddar flavor |
Conclusion: Read the Label and Opt for Homemade
In summary, while Cabot is a brand celebrated for its naturally lactose-free aged cheddar cheese, this designation does not automatically apply to all of its dairy products. The boxed shells and cheese product likely contains added dairy ingredients that reintroduce lactose, making it unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. For a truly lactose-free shells and cheese experience, the most reliable approach is to check the nutrition label for 0 grams of sugar or to prepare your own homemade version using aged Cabot cheddar and other lactose-free ingredients.
Note: While Cabot's aged cheddars are virtually lactose-free, they still contain milk proteins and are not suitable for individuals with a dairy allergy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Are all Cabot products lactose-free? Answer: No, only the aged cheeses, such as their cheddars, are naturally lactose-free due to the aging process. Processed products like boxed macaroni and cheese or spreadable cheeses may contain added dairy ingredients with lactose.
Question: How can I tell if a cheese is lactose-free? Answer: Check the nutritional label. If the sugar content is listed as 0 grams, the cheese is virtually lactose-free. This is because lactose is a milk sugar.
Question: Why is aged cheddar lactose-free? Answer: During the aging process, natural enzymes break down the lactose in the cheese. In addition, much of the lactose-containing whey is drained off during cheesemaking.
Question: Can I use regular Cabot cheddar to make a lactose-free mac and cheese? Answer: Yes, you can. By using grated aged Cabot cheddar and combining it with lactose-free milk and butter, you can prepare a homemade mac and cheese that is safe for many with lactose intolerance.
Question: What's the difference between lactose intolerance and a dairy allergy? Answer: Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest the sugar in milk (lactose), while a dairy allergy is an immune system reaction to the protein in milk. People with dairy allergies should avoid all dairy, including lactose-free aged cheese.
Question: What are some other lactose-free Cabot cheese options besides cheddar? Answer: According to Cabot, their Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, and Muenster cheeses also contain 0 grams of lactose per serving.
Question: Does Cabot offer any officially labeled lactose-free products? Answer: Yes, Cabot highlights its naturally lactose-free cheeses on its website and sometimes on the packaging, noting that their cheddars and other specific aged varieties contain 0g of lactose.
