Expert: John Snyder - 10/15/2004

Question
I wonder if you could tell if most beers contain milk protiens or lactose. I am allergic to these products. Most notably the brewing of CARLSBERG in particular.

Thankyou very much.  

Answer
Most beers do not contain milk proteins,or lactose.Lactose is used by some breweries,to give the beer a fuller body,and a slightly sweeter taste.The lactose used is gotten from cheese,as a by-product.The lactose is added before fermenation,as brewers yeast does not ferment lactose.I don't know of any american beers that use lactose.Most breweries that do use lactose,as an additive,are European,some stouts etc.The best thing to do,is to actually ask the brewer,if Lactose is added to their recipe;by law that information has to be made available.