For individuals with lactose intolerance, consuming foods containing lactose can result in digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. When it comes to cheese, there is often confusion surrounding its lactose content. In this blog post, we will delve into the intriguing topic of whether Gruyère cheese is suitable for those with lactose intolerance. So, let’s cut the curds and dive right in!
SEE ALSO: Our complete guide to lactose and lactose-free cheeses →
What is lactose intolerance?
Firstly, let’s understand what lactose intolerance entails.
Lactose is a carbohydrate (sugar) that occurs naturally in milk. Actually, a small percentage of humans don’t produce a substance (enzyme) called lactase. You might have guessed its role from its name. Indeed, lactase breaks down the lactose we consume into a form that our body can digest.
Consequently, people who can’t produce lactase are said to be lactose intolerant. The symptoms of this intolerance can include loose bowel motions, wind and a general feeling of being bloated and uneasy.
Statistically speaking, people who are lactose intolerant start to show symptoms of discomfort when they consume more than 12g of lactose. Therefore, a glass of milk is often within the limits of what their body can handle.
You can read our complete blog post on lactose intolerance here.
Gruyère: Switzerland’s most famous cheese
Before determining how much lactose is in Gruyère, let’s briefly touch on the origins of this Swiss icon. Gruyère is a Swiss cheese hailing from the region of Fribourg. It is crafted from raw cow’s milk and is renowned for its complex, nutty taste and rich, creamy texture.
The production of Gruyère cheese involves a meticulous process of curdling, pressing and ageing for several months. As a result, it acquires its characteristic aroma and delightful flavour profile.
You can read all about how this pressed cheese became one of Switzerland’s most famous exports here.
How much lactose is in Gruyère?
Now, let’s address the pivotal question: how much lactose does Gruyère cheese contain? While it is derived from milk, Gruyère undergoes a fermentation process during ageing that significantly reduces its whey and lactose content.
On average, Gruyère contains less than 1 mg of lactose per 100 grams. This minimal lactose content makes it generally well-tolerated by individuals with lactose intolerance.
You can find our entire database of lactose content in cheese here.
Can lactose intolerant people eat Gruyère?
Fortunately for cheese aficionados with lactose intolerance, Gruyère cheese is often considered a suitable choice. This is because its production and maturation render Gruyère easier to digest for individuals with lactose intolerance.
However, it is important to note that sensitivity to lactose can vary among individuals, so personal tolerance levels should be considered. Hence, it is advisable to listen to your body and monitor your own reactions when consuming Gruyère or any other dairy product.
In addition to its reduced lactose content, Gruyère also offers several nutritional benefits. It is a rich source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
You can read our complete nutritional review of Gruyère here.
Conclusion: Most lactose intolerant people can eat Gruyère
In conclusion, Gruyère cheese can be a suitable option for individuals with lactose intolerance. Although it originates from milk, the fermentation and ageing processes considerably reduce its lactose content, making it generally well-tolerated.
However, as with any dietary considerations, individual tolerance levels may vary. If you are lactose intolerant, it is advisable to monitor your personal response to Gruyère cheese and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.
Are you a lactose intolerant cheese lover? We’d love to hear about your experience with Gruyère cheese. Leave us a comment below.
References
Overall nutritional content
The nutritional content of cheese in our table comes from the USDA Food Data Central Repository, the Australian Food Composition Database and cheese manufacturers. We realise that there can be variations between different brands and producers. Hence, the numbers we have used are averages.
Lactose levels in mentioned cheeses
¹ Lactose residual content in PDO cheeses
² Detection of lactose in products with low lactose content
³ The analysis of lactose in milk and cheese products by HPLC
⁴ Food Standards ANZ Food Composition Database
⁶ Lactose & Galactose content of cheese
Sabine is the creative force behind Cheese Scientist. She is a sustainable living advocate, a climate change protestor and is pro-choice. And, most relevantly, she is also a lactose intolerant cheese lover.
