Is Lactose-Free Milk Powder Available?

December 30, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 65% of the global adult population has a reduced ability to digest lactose after infancy. For those with lactose intolerance seeking a convenient, shelf-stable dairy option, the question 'Is lactose-free milk powder available?' is a common one. The answer is yes, and it can be found in various forms, including options suitable for cooking and for infants.

Quick Summary

Lactose-free milk powder is produced for lactose-sensitive individuals. The powder is made by breaking down lactose with the lactase enzyme or through ultrafiltration. Options are available for adults and infants, and can be used for baking, cooking, and beverages.

Key Points

Availability: Yes, lactose-free milk powder is available for adults, infants, and various culinary uses.
Production Method: The powder is created by adding the lactase enzyme to break down lactose into simpler sugars, making it digestible.
Variety of Brands: Several brands, such as DairySky and Valio, produce lactose-free powders, while specialized formulas for infants are also on the market.
Versatile Use: It can be used for baking, cooking sauces, preparing beverages like coffee or smoothies, and as an emergency food item.
Nutritional Value: It retains the essential nutrients of regular milk, including protein and calcium, and sometimes includes added vitamins.
Differentiation: Unlike plant-based powders, it is still a dairy product containing milk proteins, but without the lactose sugar.
Sweetness: The enzymatic process can result in a slightly sweeter taste than regular milk, due to the presence of glucose and galactose.

Yes, Lactose-Free Milk Powder is Readily Available

For those with lactose intolerance, the convenience of powdered milk is a welcome innovation. Historically, individuals had to avoid dairy entirely or rely on liquid alternatives. However, modern food science has made it possible to produce milk powder with the lactose removed, providing a shelf-stable and versatile option for many dietary needs.

How Lactose-Free Milk Powder is Made

The process for creating lactose-free milk involves breaking down the lactose sugar into simpler, more digestible sugars: glucose and galactose. This is primarily achieved through one of two methods:

Enzymatic Hydrolysis: The most common method involves adding the lactase enzyme directly to the milk during processing. The lactase enzyme breaks down the lactose before the milk is dried into a powder. This process can sometimes result in a slightly sweeter flavor, as glucose and galactose are perceived as sweeter than lactose.
Membrane Filtration: Some manufacturers use ultrafiltration to physically separate the lactose from the milk before adding the lactase enzyme to handle any remaining lactose. This technique can better preserve the original taste profile and is often used for higher-end products.

Brands and Varieties on the Market

Lactose-free milk powder isn't a one-size-fits-all product. The market offers a range of options, from infant formulas to versions designed for baking and general use.

For Adults

DairySky Lactose Free Milk Powder: A non-GMO, fat-free option that is kosher-certified and rich in protein and calcium. It is marketed as being suitable for baking, coffee, and general beverage consumption.
Valio Eila®: A brand producing lactose-free milk powder for industrial use in various products like confectionery and baked goods.
MT Royal Lactose-Free Milk Powder: Positioned as a versatile powder for beverages and cooking, it is noted for its ease of use.

For Infants

Novalac LF (Lactose Free): A specialized powdered milk for babies, designed for infants from birth to 12 months with lactose intolerance.
Nestle Lactogen Recover Low Lactose: Another option for infants that are unable to tolerate regular formula.
Various Generic Brands: Many stores and pharmacies offer their own lactose-free infant formulas to address digestive issues in babies.

Comparison of Lactose-Free Milk Powder vs. Plant-Based Powders

For individuals exploring their options, it's important to understand the key differences between lactose-free dairy and other dairy-free powders.


Feature	Lactose-Free Milk Powder (Dairy)	Coconut Milk Powder	Oat Milk Powder
Source	Cow's milk with lactose removed	Coconuts	Oats
Flavor Profile	Creamy, with a slightly sweeter note due to broken-down sugars	Distinctly nutty and coconut-flavored	Mild and slightly earthy, can vary by brand
Nutritional Profile	Similar to regular milk, fortified with calcium and vitamins	Can be a good source of healthy fats; less protein than dairy	Often contains fiber, fortified with vitamins and minerals
Primary Use	Baking, beverages, cooking, and infant formula	Curries, beverages, baked goods	Smoothies, coffee, baking
Allergens	Contains milk protein; not suitable for those with a dairy allergy	Tree nuts	Gluten-free varieties are available; check labels carefully

Using Lactose-Free Milk Powder

This versatile ingredient can be used in the same way as regular powdered milk. Here are some common applications:

Baking: Use it as a dry ingredient in recipes for bread, cakes, and cookies to add moisture and a dairy flavor.
Beverages: Mix with water to create a creamy milk substitute for coffee, tea, or smoothies.
Cooking: Add it to creamy sauces, soups, and casseroles for a rich texture without the digestive discomfort.
Emergency Preparedness: Its long shelf life makes it an excellent addition to an emergency food supply.

Conclusion: A Convenient Dairy Option

In conclusion, lactose-free milk powder is indeed available and offers a practical and nutritious alternative for those with lactose intolerance. Produced by adding the lactase enzyme or using filtration, it provides a stable source of dairy nutrients, including calcium and protein. With various brands and applications, from specialized infant formulas to versatile adult powders, it allows individuals to enjoy the benefits and flavor of milk without the associated digestive issues. As always, checking product labels for specific ingredients and nutritional information is recommended to ensure it fits your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lactose-free milk powder is made by adding the enzyme lactase to milk before it is dried. The lactase breaks down the complex lactose sugar into more easily digestible simple sugars, glucose and galactose.

Yes, it can have a slightly sweeter taste than regular milk powder. This is because the lactase enzyme breaks lactose down into glucose and galactose, which are perceived as sweeter by the human palate.

Yes, lactose-free milk powder is an excellent substitute for regular milk powder in baking and cooking. It provides a creamy dairy flavor and can be reconstituted into liquid milk for recipes.

Absolutely. You can mix lactose-free milk powder with warm water to create a creamy milk substitute for your coffee, tea, or other beverages.

Yes, there are specialized lactose-free infant formulas available from brands like Novalac and Nestle that are designed for babies with lactose sensitivity.

No, lactose-free milk powder still contains milk proteins and is not suitable for people with a milk allergy. A milk allergy is an immune system reaction to milk proteins, not lactose.

Lactose-free milk powder can be purchased online from various retailers, such as Ubuy and Amazon, and may be available in specialty health food stores or pharmacies.