Food & Drink

Kraft Launches Real Dairy Lactose-Free Cheese-But Is It Healthier?

arena photography
arena

Attention lactose-intolerant cheese lovers: Kraft Natural Cheese is launching a lactose-free line.

The lineup includes three new cheeses, all made with dairy but without lactose. The new products include Mild Cheddar Shredded Cheese, Mozzarella Shredded Cheese, and Mozzarella String Cheese.

The shredded cheeses are packaged in resealable bags, while the string cheese is sold in the classic individual wrapped form, with 12 sticks per pouch.

According to the company, the shredded cheeses are made to melt easily and work well in recipes, such as pastas, wraps, salads, and baked potatoes. The cheese sticks are designed to be a quick on-the-go snack.

Kraft emphasized the launch was meant to provide more options for those with dietary restrictions.

"As consumer needs continue to evolve, we are focused on delivering products that make it easier for more people to enjoy the foods they love," said DhritiBatra, Director of Kraft Natural Cheese at Lactalis Heritage Dairy, in a press release.

The cheeses are made with added lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose. It is often found in lactose-free milk.

"Our Lactose-Free shreds and string cheese bring the same trusted taste and quality that Kraft Natural Cheese is known for, but now in a way that fits seamlessly into more lifestyles and everyday routines," Batra added.

Although made without lactose, the new products are necessarily healthier.

Both the classic mozzarella string cheese and lactose-free version contain 80 calories per serving, while the lactose-free version has one extra gram of total fat (6g instead of 5g).

The two new versions of shredded cheese follow very similar nutritional values to their lactose counterparts, containing the same amount of total fat and calories as their lactose version.

The Kraft Natural Cheese Lactose-Free product line is available for purchase at select national retailers, with greater distribution expected in the following months.

Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 12:22 PM.

Get one year of unlimited digital access for $159.99
#ReadLocal

Only 44¢ per day

SUBSCRIBE NOW