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Enzyme

Lactase

Lactase is an enzyme produced in the small intestine of mammals that breaks down lactose, the primary sugar found in milk. Lactase was first discovered by Richard J. Wurtman, a professor at MIT, while studying vitamin B12 absorption. Researchers have since found other microorganisms that produce lactase and, using precise fermentation technology, can grow and encourage those microorganisms to produce crude lactase, which then undergoes an extensive process of extraction, purification, and filtration to deliver it to you. Lactase's unique ability to break down lactose allows humans to consume more milk-based products with less symptoms of gas, bloating and discomfort associated with lactose intolerance.*

From Seed to You

We grow our lactase in a small fermenter (a "seed vessel"), carefully developing it until it's ready for the big leagues (enormous fermenters that are up to three stories high). Our skilled team has perfected the art of extracting and purifying lactase for decades, maximizing the potency and therapeutic benefits and consistently delivering a superior quality enzyme that meets the highest standards for food and pharmaceutical use. In fact, our lactase is so good, a great many of our competitors actually use our lactase in their products.

Traditional Uses

Perhaps the most well-known enzyme, lactase helps split lactose into two simpler sugars (glucose and galactose). While lactose is a large molecule that can be difficult to digest, glucose and galactose can be easily absorbed by the body.

All mammals produce some lactase. In humans, lactase production is typically highest at birth and during infancy, when milk is the primary source of nutrition. As humans age, lactase production naturally decreases for most people, leading to lactose intolerance. Lactase supplementation can help decrease bloating, gas, and the discomfort associated with lactose intolerance.*

Why Formulations Matters

Everyone knows that chocolate and peanut butter are great alone, but that together they are better than their parts. Those with lactose intolerance often find they have difficulty digesting other things too (like gluten or rich, fatty meals). While we sell our high-quality lactase alone, we often recommend people try one of our comprehensive digestive solutions. Our expert formulator with over 40 years of experience in enzymes and probiotics developed our digestive formulations, each for specific purposes, knowing how each of their parts would interact with each other.