Clover
Clover Sonoma's first non-GMO lactose-free milk. Credit: Business Wire

US-based diary company Clover Sonoma has introduced the first and only non-GMO project verified lactose-free milk for lactose-intolerant consumers.

The lactose-free milk is available in whole milk, 2% reduced fat, 1% low fat and fat-free, as well as a chocolate whole milk option for a rich and creamy treat.

Offering a delicious and naturally nutritious lactose-free option, the new product is said to raise the bar for milk quality in the US.

“As the first and only non-GMO project verified lactose-free milk, Clover Sonoma is meeting the needs of customers who are lactose-intolerant and want to avoid GMOs.”

It is supported by the Clover Promise of Excellence, which guarantees delicious and nutritious dairy that is rBST-free, non-GMO and American Humane Certified, as well as ensures low bacteria counts that exceed state and federal standards.

Clover Sonoma president and CEO Marcus Benedetti said: “As the first and only non-GMO project verified lactose-free milk, Clover Sonoma is meeting the needs of customers who are lactose-intolerant and want to avoid GMOs.

“With Clover Sonoma Lactose-Free Milk, everyone can enjoy the delicious non-GMO Clover dairy they love and get the calcium and nutrients they need for a healthy lifestyle.”

In the US, around 65% of people have a reduced ability to digest lactose, according to the National Institutes of Health.

It is reported that lactose intolerance is caused by the body’s inability to produce enough of the lactase enzyme to fully break down lactose, a natural sugar in milk.

The lactose then passes undigested into the stomach, causing uncomfortable results.

The company noted that for a more balanced nutrition profile, people who might have chosen plant-based milk alternatives due to lactose intolerance may want to choose lactose-free milk.

According to a study published by McGill University, cow’s milk is the most nutritious option compared to plant-based dairy alternatives.

The new lactose-free milk is sourced from Northern California farms and is produced by adding lactase enzymes to fresh milk, which breaks down the lactose into two more easily digested sugars, namely glucose and galactose.

The lactose-free milk from Clover Sonoma is currently available at Raley’s and local independent grocers such as Nugget Markets at manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $4.99.

The company noted that its lactose-free chocolate whole milk will be available from this April.