Is Lactose Vegan?

Vegan status: Not Vegan

Also known as: Milk sugar, 4-O-β-D-galactopyranosyl-D-glucose

Source

The primary sugar found in mammalian milk. Commercially derived as a byproduct of cheese and butter production.

Commonly found in

Processed breads, biscuits, chips/crisps, some medications (pill filler), protein powders, chocolate.

Vegan alternative: No direct sweetener substitute — simply avoid lactose-containing products.

Notes

Surprisingly common in savory and processed foods with no obvious dairy content. Also a very common inactive ingredient (excipient) in pharmaceutical tablets.