This Summer’s Hottest Indulgence: Lactose-Free Ice Cream
When it comes to ice cream, the options seem endless. From dairy-free to fat-free, protein-rich to sugar-free, the ice cream landscape is constantly evolving. But if you’re lactose intolerant, finding a frozen treat can be a challenge. That’s where lactose-free ice cream comes in, offering a delicious solution for those who can’t digest lactose.
What is Lactose and Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose is a sugar found in cow’s milk that requires an enzyme called lactase for digestion. However, around 75% of people don’t produce enough lactase, leading to lactose intolerance. While not life-threatening, lactose intolerance can cause discomfort and digestive issues. It’s a common condition, affecting about 65% of adults.
The ability to digest lactose varies among populations. A gene mutation allowed some individuals to continue producing lactase into adulthood. This mutation is more prevalent in those of European descent, while those of Asian descent are more likely to be lactose intolerant.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance can range from mild to severe, including bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. However, it’s important not to confuse lactose intolerance with a dairy allergy, which involves immune system reactions and can be life-threatening.
Animal-Free is Lactose-Free
The good news is that lactose intolerance doesn’t mean you have to give up ice cream. Lactose-free options are widely available, and they come in two main categories: plant-based/dairy-free and animal-free.
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Plant-based/dairy-free ice creams are made with alternative milks like coconut, soy, almond, or oat milk. While they lack dairy allergens and lactose, their texture may not be as creamy as traditional ice cream.
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Animal-free ice creams, on the other hand, are made from real dairy minus the lactose. They offer the same creamy taste and texture as traditional ice cream. Animal-free ice cream is a perfect choice for those with lactose intolerance, following a vegan lifestyle, or looking to reduce their environmental impact.
How do you make real ice cream without cow’s milk?
At Perfect Day, we’ve harnessed the power of nature to create animal-free dairy that’s identical to traditional dairy. Through precision fermentation, we’ve developed a process that produces non-animal whey protein using microflora. This protein is nature-identical to whey from cows, providing all the benefits of traditional dairy without lactose, cholesterol, hormones, or antibiotics.
Get to Know our Partners
To satisfy your ice cream cravings this summer, check out these animal-free and lactose-free options from our partners:
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Brave Robot: Offering delicious animal-free and lactose-free ice cream, ice cream sandwiches, and cake mix. With classic flavors like Vanilla and A Lot of Chocolate, as well as adventurous options like Buttery Pecan and Hazelnut Chocolate Chunk, Brave Robot has something for everyone. Find their products in over 8,000 stores nationwide or order directly from their website.
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N!ck’s: Creating better-for-you sweets and snacks, N!ck’s offers keto-friendly ice creams with no added sugars and fewer calories. Their vegan, lactose-free, and animal-free line features Swedish flavors such as Vanilj Bean, Choklad Choklad, and Karamell Swirl. Look for N!ck’s products in stores nationwide or order directly from their site.
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Graeter’s: With over 150 years of experience, Graeter’s is known for handcrafted ice cream made in small batches. Their Perfect Indulgence line includes animal-free and lactose-free options like Madagascar Vanilla, Black Cherry Chocolate Chip, and Cookies & Cream. Graeter’s ships nationwide and offers local delivery in select areas.
Don’t let lactose intolerance stop you from enjoying a cool and creamy scoop of ice cream this summer. With the wide range of lactose-free options available, you can indulge in your favorite frozen treat without the discomfort. So go ahead, grab a pint and savor every spoonful!
