Detection and Quantification of Lactose in Dairy Products

Lactose is the primary sugar found in milk and other dairy products. While it serves as a key source of energy for many individuals, for those who are lactose intolerant, its ingestion can cause digestive discomfort and other health issues. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the individual and the amount consumed. For most people, consuming dairy products with moderate amounts of lactose may result in mild digestive discomfort, while others may experience more severe symptoms. As a result, the ability to accurately detect and quantify lactose in dairy products is essential.

According to international guidelines, most lactose-intolerant individuals can tolerate up to 12 grams of lactose per serving (approximately one cup of milk or its equivalent) without any significant symptoms. However, some individuals may experience discomfort even with smaller amounts, and those with severe lactose intolerance may need to avoid lactose altogether.

In light of these issues, dairy producers are increasingly offering lactose-free or lactose-reduced products. These products are intended to provide an option for people with lactose intolerance, allowing them to enjoy dairy without triggering symptoms. The labelling of such products is strictly regulated to ensure that they meet internationally accepted standards for lactose content.

Food regulation in Australia and New Zealand is controlled by Food Standards of Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). The current standard for lactose-free products was established by FSANZ in 2008, and states that there should be ‘no detectable lactose’ in the product if a lactose-free claim is made. In most European countries the standard for a product to be considered lactose-free is less than 0.01%. Detection and quantification at such levels requires a very high level of accuracy.

In 2021, Megazyme became part of Neogen, bringing with it more than thirty years of experience as the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of enzymatic bio-analysis test kits and reagents for the food, feed, dairy, beverage and allied industries. Megazyme test kits are designed to meet the needs of food manufacturers, quality control laboratories, and research institutions worldwide with a portfolio that includes a wide range of kits for the analysis of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and other food components. The K-LOLAC test for lactose is just one example of our comprehensive offerings.

The Neogen Megazyme K-LOLAC test kit is a widely used enzymatic assay for the quantitative determination of lactose in dairy products. This method is AOAC accredited, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of accuracy, reliability, and scientific rigor for lactose detection, making it a trusted tool for the dairy industry and regulatory compliance. It has been validated against the ‘gold-standard’ High Performance Anion Exchange Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection (HPAEC-PAD) method, demonstrating a highly sensitive threshold for even low levels of lactose, capable of achieving a limit of detection of 1.62mg/L.

The Megazyme K-LOLAC test stands out compared to other techniques commonly used in the dairy industry due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. It is particularly advantageous for routine quality control and for testing products labelled as lactose-free, providing reliable results without the need for highly specialised equipment.

Running the test is relatively straightforward and involves mixing the sample with reagents provided in the kit. After a series of enzymatic reactions, the resulting colour intensity is measured using a spectrophotometer or a microplate reader. The intensity of the colour is compared to a standard curve to quantify the lactose concentration in the sample.

One of the key strengths of this enzymatic method is its high degree of specificity and sensitivity, ensuring that lactose levels can be accurately quantified even at very low concentrations. Moreover, the test is designed to be compatible with a wide range of dairy products, from liquid milk to cheese and yogurt, making it versatile for various applications.

Independent validation studies and comparisons with other methods have consistently shown that the Neogen Megazyme K-LOLAC test provides results that are in good agreement with more complex analytical techniques. The ease of use, rapid processing time, and cost-effectiveness further enhance its appeal as a reliable tool for routine lactose testing in food production.

Neogen supports the food industry in ensuring the safety, quality, and nutritional integrity of their products. Our extensive portfolio has been designed to facilitate making critical decisions confidently and quickly, to improve efficiency, add value, and contribute to better outcomes for businesses and consumers alike.

Detection and quantification of lactose in dairy products is critical for ensuring that lactose-intolerant consumers can safely enjoy their food. The Megazyme K-LOLAC test kit is an excellent tool for this purpose, offering an accurate, reliable, cost-effective, and efficient method for lactose analysis.

To learn more about Megazyme or any other part of our expanded food quality and safety product range, visit neogenaustralasia.com.au.