Is mozzarella cheese lactose free? A Guide to Lactose Levels

October 27, 2025 •

3 min read

While no cheese made from milk is truly lactose-free unless treated with the lactase enzyme, fresh mozzarella contains a relatively low level of lactose. This makes it more tolerable for many individuals with mild lactose intolerance, though the specific lactose content can vary depending on the type and manufacturing process.

Quick Summary

This article explores the lactose content of mozzarella, detailing how its production method results in lower levels of lactose compared to other dairy products. It covers the differences between fresh and low-moisture varieties, offers guidance for individuals with lactose intolerance, and compares mozzarella's lactose levels with other cheeses.

Key Points

Low Lactose Content: Mozzarella is not lactose-free but contains significantly less lactose than milk, making it manageable for many with intolerance.
Production Method Matters: The pasta filata and fermentation processes reduce lactose by removing whey and allowing bacteria to break it down into lactic acid.
Fresh vs. Low-Moisture: Fresh mozzarella has slightly more lactose than low-moisture versions, but both are generally low enough for most intolerant individuals.
Know Your Limits: Individual tolerance varies. Start with small portions and monitor your body's reaction to determine your personal threshold.
Lactose-Free Options: For severe intolerance, store-bought lactose-free mozzarella or lactase enzyme supplements can provide a solution.
Aged Cheeses are Lower: Hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan and Cheddar contain even less lactose than mozzarella due to longer fermentation periods.

Understanding the Lactose in Mozzarella

Mozzarella is not naturally lactose-free, as it is a dairy product made from milk. Lactose is the natural sugar found in milk, and people with lactose intolerance lack the enzyme, lactase, needed to properly digest it. However, mozzarella's manufacturing process, known as pasta filata (stretched curd), helps reduce the amount of lactose present in the final product.

During cheesemaking, milk is separated into curds (solids) and whey (liquid). Most of the lactose remains in the whey, which is drained off. The subsequent heating and stretching of the curd further reduces the whey content and, therefore, the lactose. Any remaining lactose is further fermented into lactic acid by the bacteria used in the process, similar to aged cheeses.

Fresh vs. Low-Moisture Mozzarella

The type of mozzarella can impact its lactose content. Fresh mozzarella, often packed in water or brine, has a slightly higher moisture content and can contain around 2-3 grams of lactose per 100 grams. Low-moisture mozzarella, which is what's typically used on pizzas, undergoes further drying, which can result in slightly lower lactose levels. However, the difference is often not significant enough to impact tolerance for many individuals.

What About Lactose-Free Mozzarella?

For those with severe lactose intolerance, commercially produced lactose-free mozzarella is available. This cheese is made by adding the enzyme lactase during production, which breaks down the lactose into more easily digestible simple sugars, glucose and galactose. This provides all the taste and texture of regular mozzarella without the associated digestive discomfort.

Mozzarella and Lactose Intolerance

Most people with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of lactose, and many find that mozzarella's low lactose content is well within their personal tolerance level. An average person with lactose intolerance can often handle up to 12 grams of lactose in a single sitting. With mozzarella's typical content of less than 3 grams per 100 grams, a standard serving is unlikely to cause issues. It is important to listen to your body and determine your personal tolerance, as it can vary.

Tips for enjoying mozzarella with lactose intolerance:

Start with small portions: Begin with a small amount to see how your body reacts.
Combine with other foods: Eating cheese as part of a meal can slow down digestion and minimize symptoms.
Consider lactase supplements: Taking a lactase enzyme supplement can help your body break down the lactose more effectively.
Opt for buffalo milk mozzarella: Buffalo milk naturally contains slightly less lactose than cow's milk, which may be beneficial for those with high sensitivity.

Lactose Content Comparison: Mozzarella vs. Other Cheeses

To put mozzarella's lactose levels in perspective, it's helpful to compare it to other dairy products. Aged cheeses generally have lower lactose content due to longer fermentation, while fresh, soft cheeses often have more.


Cheese Type	Lactose Content (per 100g)	Notes
Fresh Mozzarella	1-3g	Relatively low for a fresh cheese.
Aged Cheddar (12+ months)	<0.1g	Very low due to extensive aging.
Parmesan (aged 12+ months)	<0.1g	Also very low due to its hard, aged nature.
Cottage Cheese	3-4g	Higher lactose due to its fresh, soft nature.
Brie/Camembert	0-1g	Lower lactose than some fresh cheeses.
Plain Yogurt	~4.8g	Bacteria convert some lactose, but still contains a moderate amount.
Milk (Whole)	~4.9g	The highest lactose content among common dairy products.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

In conclusion, the answer to "Is mozzarella cheese lactose free?" is no, but it does contain significantly less lactose than other dairy products like milk. The pasta filata method, which involves separating whey and stretching the curd, is the primary reason for this lower lactose content. For most individuals with lactose intolerance, consuming mozzarella in moderation is not a problem. However, it is crucial to recognize your personal tolerance levels and, if necessary, opt for specially made lactose-free versions or use lactase enzyme supplements. For a broader range of dietary information, consider exploring resources from reputable health organizations like the National Institutes of Health. Ultimately, with the right knowledge, you can continue to enjoy the delicious taste and versatility of mozzarella while managing your dietary needs effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people with lactose intolerance can eat mozzarella without experiencing symptoms because it is naturally low in lactose. Start with a small amount to test your personal tolerance.

During the cheesemaking process, most of the lactose is drained off with the whey. The remaining lactose is further reduced by bacteria that convert it into lactic acid during fermentation.

Fresh mozzarella typically contains about 1-3 grams of lactose per 100 grams of cheese, a low level compared to other fresh dairy products.

Low-moisture mozzarella may contain slightly less lactose due to further drying. However, the difference is often small, and both are generally well-tolerated by those with mild intolerance.

Yes, many brands offer specially made lactose-free mozzarella where the lactase enzyme has been added to break down the lactose.

Aged cheddar (over 12 months) is virtually lactose-free (<0.1g per 100g), while mozzarella contains a bit more (1-3g). Aged cheddar is generally safer for those with severe lactose intolerance.

If you have a higher sensitivity to lactose, taking lactase enzyme supplements with your meal can help your body digest the lactose in mozzarella and prevent symptoms.