Top 5 sneakiest dairy products to watch out for if you're lactose intolerant

Every lactose intolerant person has made a mistake where we ate something we didn’t realize had a ton of dairy in it and then later paid the heavy consequences.

There is a wide range in how much lactose a serving of a dairy product contains. The less lactose, the safer it will be to consume without any symptoms or side effects because many lactose intolerant people produce at least a minimal amount of the lactase enzyme required to break down lactose.

Here are the top 5 sneakiest dairy products that might catch you off guard!

Cream Cheese Bagels

A standard cream cheese serving contains about 2 grams of lactose. Not too bad, except until you consider this is for a “standard serving” of 1 oz.

I don’t know about you, but I find both myself and my local bagel shop are always dolloping a generous amount of cream cheese on my bagels. At almost 2 grams of lactose per oz., this adds up fast and is definitely one way to ruin your morning.

Sherberts

Sherberts are not sorbets! One of the most common pitfall for any newly minted lactose intolerant person is understanding there is a very real difference between sherberts and sorbets.

Sorbets are made from only fruit puree and water. Sherberts on the other hand are like a cross between ice cream and sorbets. A standard sherbert will have about 4g of lactose in a cup, which will really catch you off guard if you think you’re consuming a sorbet! Make sure to double check if it’s sherbert or sorbet the next time you’re at your local ice cream shop.

Ricotta Cheese

Not all cheeses are made equal. Topping the list with the highest amount of lactose per ounce is ricotta cheese. Ricotta cheese can have up to 12 grams of lactose in a cup. So be conscious the next time you’re ordering lasagna off the menu and if you’re making lasagna or another ricotta cheese heavy dish, consider using a lower lactose cheese alternative such as mozzarella.

Hot Dogs

Think you're safe with hot dogs? Think again. Hot dogs and other processed meats such as deli meats, sausages, and even some burger patties can be laced with dairy-derived additives or fillers. Reading ingredient labels carefully and choosing brands that clearly state their lactose-free status can save you from unpleasant surprises.

Even hot dogs labelled as "100% beef" or "All beef" can still contain lactose. If you are intent on enjoying some hot dogs on the grill, make sure to stick to the Kosher Certified hot dogs such as Hebrew National since The pairing of meat with dairy is prohibited under kosher rules the pairing of dairy and meat is prohibited under kosher rules.

Potato Chips

For those with lactose intolerance, it's essential to be cautious when indulging in potato chips. Some chip flavors can contain dairy-derived ingredients like milk solids and cheese powders, leading to discomfort. To avoid unwanted digestive issues, opt for dairy-free chip options and read labels carefully. Staying informed and making mindful choices will ensure a more enjoyable snacking experience for individuals with lactose sensitivity.

In conclusion, navigating the world of snacks requires a keen eye and an awareness of hidden dairy ingredients, especially for individuals with lactose intolerance. As you embark on your journey to find dairy-free delights, remember that Milky stands as a reliable ally. With its FODMAP and Mannitol-free formulation, Milky offers a convenient and trustworthy solution for those seeking relief from lactose sensitivity. By making informed choices and opting for Milky's lactase enzyme supplements, you can savor your favorite snacks, including potato chips, with confidence and comfort. Embrace a dairy-full life without compromise, and let Milky be your companion on this flavorful adventure.