Kraft Natural Cheese, a prominent brand in the retail dairy sector managed by Lactalis Heritage Dairy, has announced the launch of its first lactose-free product line. The new portfolio is designed to address the accelerating consumer demand for digestive-friendly dairy options that retain the functional performance and taste profile of traditional cheese.

The range is debuting across select national retail channels with three distinct stock-keeping units (SKUs) including Mild Cheddar Shredded Cheese, Mozzarella Shredded Cheese, and Mozzarella String Cheese. This strategic expansion highlights a significant trend in the dairy industry, where brands are leveraging enzyme-based formulations to retain health-conscious consumers within the real-dairy category rather than losing them to plant-based alternatives.

Digestive Wellness and the Real Dairy Advantage

The decision by Lactalis Heritage Dairy to introduce a lactose-free Kraft line reflects a major consumer shift towards digestive wellness. Historically, consumers experiencing lactose sensitivity had to choose between discomfort or transitioning to plant-based cheese alternatives. However, many plant-based substitutes struggle to replicate the sensory attributes, protein content, and melting behavior of animal-derived dairy.

By offering a lactose-free option made with real dairy, Kraft Natural Cheese is targeting a lucrative compromise market. This segment comprises consumers who seek digestive comfort but are unwilling to sacrifice the nutritional profile and culinary performance of authentic cheese.

Enzyme Formulation and Product Performance

From a food science and manufacturing perspective, the new product line relies on precise enzyme formulation. To achieve a zero-gram lactose profile whilst maintaining the original dairy structure, the brand utilises added lactase. This enzyme breaks down the complex lactose disaccharide into simpler, easily digestible sugars, glucose and galactose, without compromising the underlying dairy proteins.

Maintaining structural integrity is critical for product performance in the kitchen. Shredded cheese varieties must exhibit specific melting characteristics, moisture retention, and stretchability when heated in domestic recipes such as pasta dishes and wraps.

By utilising real dairy treated with lactase, Kraft ensures that the shredded cheddar and mozzarella perform identically to their standard counterparts. Additionally, the Mozzarella String Cheese SKU provides a highly portable, portion-controlled snack format, containing 12 individually wrapped portions per package to capture the convenient, on-the-go wellness market.

The Kraft Natural Cheese lactose-free line is currently rolling out to select national retailers, with plans to expand physical distribution channels and increase store-door delivery numbers over the coming months.

To support the launch and capture high-volume visibility, the shredded varieties are packaged in resealable standing pouches designed to optimise shelf space and preserve freshness.