Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: 21 September 2026.
Lactase is the enzyme that breaks down milk sugar (lactose) — and in lactose intolerance, precisely the enzyme the body produces insufficiently. At Plenthera you will find lactase as part of broad enzyme complexes: Devigest ADS and Doctor's Best Digestive Enzymes combine lactase with amylase, protease, lipase and other digestive enzymes.
Which enzyme complex suits you?
| Product | Lactase per serving | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Devigest ADS (180 caps, also 3×180) | 2,000 ALU per 2 capsules | Broad enzyme complex for mixed meals |
| Doctor's Best Digestive Enzymes (90 caps) | 1,000 ALU per capsule | 16 enzymes in one vegetarian capsule |
Both complexes contain lactase below the 4,500 FCC units per serving required for the EFSA claim; they therefore do not carry a lactase claim. We do not currently stock a single, high-dose lactase product.
What is lactase?
Lactase (β-galactosidase) is an enzyme that breaks down lactose — the sugar in milk and dairy — into glucose and galactose. In lactose intolerance, the body produces insufficient lactase of its own, so lactose reaches the large intestine undigested and is fermented there by the gut flora — resulting in bloating, gas and diarrhoea.
Worldwide, a large proportion of adults lose the ability to produce sufficient lactase after childhood — an evolutionary process that is normal for mammals. In the Netherlands and Northern Europe, centuries of dairy consumption have led to genetic "lactase persistence" in about 75% of the population. For the remaining 25% and for people from other regions (Asian, African, Mediterranean), lactose intolerance is common.
Lactase supplements provide extra lactase in the gut at the moment lactose arrives. For the authorised EFSA claim, a minimum of 4,500 FCC units per serving applies, to be taken with each lactose-containing meal; tolerance to lactose varies from person to person.
Also see our digestive enzymes category for broad enzyme complexes and our live cultures (probiotics) for the flora component.
What does science say about lactase?
The action of lactase is biochemically clear: the enzyme splits lactose into glucose and galactose, which the body can absorb. Lactase is moreover the only enzyme with an authorised health claim in EU Regulation 432/2012:
"Lactase enzyme improves lactose digestion in individuals who have difficulty digesting lactose."
Conditions of use for the claim: the claim applies to food supplements with at least 4,500 FCC units per dose, to be taken with each lactose-containing meal. Tolerance to lactose varies from person to person; seek advice on the role of lactase in your diet. Products below 4,500 FCC per serving may not carry this claim — this also applies to the enzyme complexes in this category.
The lactase forms at Plenthera
Devigest ADS — enzyme formula, 180 capsules
Broad complex from Arthur Andrew Medical with amylase, protease, lipase, cellulase and 2,000 ALU lactase per 2 capsules, among others. Also available as a 3×180 value pack.
Doctor's Best Digestive Enzymes — 16 enzymes, 90 vegetarian capsules
Sixteen plant-based enzymes in one capsule, including 1,000 ALU lactase. Vegetarian.
Other forms on the market
Single lactase in tablets (usually 3,000–10,000 FCC) and drops for pre-treating milk do exist, but are not in our range.
How do you use lactase?
A simple basic approach for the enzyme complexes in this category:
- Take the capsule(s) with or just before the meal, according to the dosage on the label.
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Combine with live cultures (probiotics) if you also want to address the flora theme.
Myths and misconceptions about lactase
Myth 1: "Lactose intolerant means I can never eat dairy."
Incorrect. Tolerance to lactose varies from person to person, and many people tolerate small amounts or fermented dairy. Discuss with a doctor or dietitian what suits you.
Myth 2: "Yoghurt always requires lactase."
Often not — yoghurt cultures already break down part of the lactose during fermentation. Many lactose-intolerant people tolerate yoghurt without supplementation.
Myth 3: "More enzyme is always better."
Not automatically. Stick to the dosage on the label; how much lactose you tolerate varies from person to person.
Myth 4: "Lactase still works after the meal."
An enzyme acts on the lactose present in the gut at the same time; therefore take it with the meal.
Combining lactase with other supplements
Lactase is often combined for the broader digestion theme. Popular combinations:
- Digestive enzyme complex: for those who want to break down other nutrients besides lactose.
- Live cultures (probiotics): yoghurt bacteria also partly digest lactose.
- Calcium: calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones — logical for those who limit dairy.
- Vitamin D: contributes to normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus.
Frequently asked questions
What is lactase?
An enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.
How does lactase work in lactose intolerance?
It provides the enzyme the body produces insufficiently, so that lactose is split in the small intestine.
When should you take lactase?
With or just before a meal containing lactose.
Which lactase products does Plenthera stock?
No single lactase product, but two enzyme complexes with lactase: Devigest ADS (2,000 ALU per 2 capsules) and Doctor's Best Digestive Enzymes (1,000 ALU per capsule).
May these products carry the lactase claim?
No. The EFSA claim requires at least 4,500 FCC units per serving; both complexes are below that.
Vegan lactase?
Lactase is produced microbially from Aspergillus oryzae or Kluyveromyces lactis. Doctor's Best Digestive Enzymes is vegetarian.
Does lactase have side effects?
Generally well tolerated.
Difference between lactase and Lactaid?
Lactaid is an American brand. Lactase is the generic name of the enzyme.
Sources
- EFSA Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — authorised health claim for lactase enzyme (at least 4,500 FCC per dose); the only enzyme claim on the list.
- Roxas M., "The role of enzyme supplementation in digestive disorders", Altern Med Rev (2008).
- Suarez F. et al., "Lactose maldigestion is not an impediment to the consumption of milk", Am J Clin Nutr (1998).
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Lactase is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.