Quick answer
Lactase is the enzyme that breaks lactose (milk sugar) into two simpler sugars, glucose and galactose. Lactase supplements are measured in FCC units, a standard from the Food Chemicals Codex that measures enzyme activity, not weight. MAYN Lactase lists 9000 FCC per serve.
What lactase does
Splits lactose into glucose and galactose
Lactose found in
Milk, soft cheese, ice cream, yoghurt
FCC
Food Chemicals Codex activity unit
MAYN Lactase
9000 FCC, 120 capsules
What is lactose?
Lactose is the natural sugar in milk. It's made of two smaller sugars, glucose and galactose, joined together. Lactase is the enzyme that splits them apart.
What does FCC mean?
FCC stands for Food Chemicals Codex, a set of international standards for food ingredients. For enzymes, FCC units measure activity: how much work the enzyme can do under set conditions. That's why lactase labels show FCC units rather than milligrams.
Milligrams tell you how much powder is in a capsule; FCC units tell you how active the enzyme is. Compare FCC units between products.
Where is lactose found?
| Food | Lactose content |
|---|---|
| Milk | Higher |
| Ice cream, soft cheese | Moderate to high |
| Yoghurt | Moderate (some is fermented) |
| Hard aged cheese | Very low |
| Butter | Very low |
How lactase supplements are used
Lactase products are usually taken with food that contains lactose. Follow the directions on your product label for timing and amount.
Frequently asked questions
Is lactase vegan?
Lactase used in supplements is commonly produced by fermentation with fungi. Check the label for the capsule type and other ingredients.
Is 9000 FCC a lot?
Lactase products range widely. Compare FCC units per serve between labels and follow your product's directions.
Is lactose the same as dairy protein?
No. Lactose is a sugar. Milk proteins such as casein and whey are different components of dairy.
Keep reading
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking a new supplement.
