Dairy-free milk has been in grocery stores and supermarkets across the country for a while now, giving customers a wide range of nut and plant based options. From almond to coconut, there a copious products available. More recently however, a new wave of lactose-free products have emerged, proclaiming their real dairy base that lactose-intolerant individuals can still enjoy.

I’ve seen more and more lactose-free milks in stores around NYC and advertised on TV, so I decided to look into this trend further to really see what it’s all about.

First, what exactly are the differences between dairy-free and lactose-free milks? Dairy-free products contain no dairy at all and are made from plants, nuts and grains, while lactose-free products are made from real dairy, just with all of the lactose removed. Neither contain lactose but are quite different based on the ingredients they’re made from.

The biggest complaint that most people have about dairy-free milk is that they’re not as creamy as real milk (the water content is very high). Lactose-free products are helping with this, and brands such as Lactaid sell Fat Free, Low Fat 1%, Reduced Fat 2% and even Whole Milk varieties.

Whether you’re lactose intolerant or are just curious about alternative milks, I say jump on this trend and try lactose-free milk. It’s great for you and quite delicious.

PS. This Fairlife brand is Roxie approved!