Best Lactase Enzyme Supplements (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Lactase enzyme supplements help millions of people with lactose intolerance enjoy dairy without the bloating, gas, and digestive discomfort that typically follows. These supplements provide the lactase enzyme your body lacks, breaking down lactose before it causes problems.
The best lactase supplements offer adequate FCC (Food Chemical Codex) units for effective digestion, fast-acting formulas, and clean ingredient profiles. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lactaid Fast Act | 9,000 FCC Lactase | 60 | Caplets | Best Overall |
| LactoJoy 14,500 FCC | 14,500 FCC Lactase | 80 | Tablets | Best High-Potency |
| NOW Dairy Digest Complete | Lactase, Protease, Lipase | 90 | Capsules | Best Comprehensive |
| Lacto-Freedom Probiotic | Lactase-Producing Probiotics | 21 | Capsules | Best Long-Term Solution |
| Best Naturals 9000 FCC | 9,000 FCC Lactase | 180 | Tablets | Best Value |
| Carlyle Lactase 9000 FCC | 9,000 FCC Lactase | 180 | Tablets | Best Budget Option |
| Zenwise No Bloat | Lactase, Probiotics, Ginger | 60 | Capsules | Best for Bloating Relief |
| Double Wood Digestive Enzymes | 10-Enzyme Blend with Lactase | 180 | Capsules | Best Full-Spectrum Enzymes |
| Lactaid Fast Act Chewables | 9,000 FCC Lactase | 60 | Chewables | Best Chewable |
| Legendairy Milk Digestive Enzymes | Digestive Enzymes, Ginger, Fennel | 60 | Capsules | Best for Women |
1. Lactaid Fast Act – Best Overall
Why it stands out: Lactaid remains the gold standard in lactase supplements, backed by decades of consumer trust and pharmacist recommendations. The Fast Act formula delivers 9,000 FCC units per caplet and starts working with your first bite of dairy.
Each caplet contains the optimal 9,000 FCC lactase units recommended by dietitians for a standard dairy-containing meal. The fast-acting formula begins breaking down lactose immediately, making it perfect for spontaneous dairy consumption at restaurants or social gatherings. The individually wrapped packets make it easy to keep a supply in your purse, car, or desk drawer. Certified kosher and suitable for ages 4 and up, this is the most widely available lactase supplement on the market.
Pros:
- Trusted brand with proven track record
- Convenient single-dose travel packs
- Fast-acting formula works within minutes
- Safe for children ages 4+
Cons:
- May need multiple caplets for high-lactose meals
Best for: Anyone seeking a reliable, fast-acting lactase supplement for everyday dairy consumption.
2. LactoJoy 14,500 FCC – Best High-Potency
Why it stands out: With 14,500 FCC units per tablet—more than 60% higher than most competitors—LactoJoy eliminates the guesswork about how much lactase you need. The ultra-pure formula contains only lactase and plant-based ingredients with no artificial additives.
LactoJoy’s high-potency formula means you don’t need to calculate exact lactose content in your meal. The tablets are small and can be chewed or swallowed whole, with a convenient break line for halving the dose when needed. Made in Germany with rigorous quality standards, the formula is 100% vegan and free from silicon dioxide, artificial flavors, and sucralose. The 80-count package provides excellent value for those with moderate to severe lactose intolerance who need stronger support.
Pros:
- Highest potency available (14,500 FCC)
- Can be chewed or swallowed
- Clean, vegan formula with no additives
- Break line allows flexible dosing
Cons:
- Premium price point
- May be too strong for mild intolerance
Best for: People with moderate to severe lactose intolerance who want maximum enzyme coverage without taking multiple pills.
3. NOW Dairy Digest Complete – Best Comprehensive
Why it stands out: Unlike single-enzyme lactase supplements, NOW Dairy Digest Complete addresses all three potential causes of dairy discomfort: lactose, milk proteins, and milk fats. This makes it ideal for people who react to dairy even when taking traditional lactase pills.
This comprehensive formula combines lactase for lactose digestion with proteases that break down difficult-to-digest milk proteins like casein and whey, plus lipases that target milk fats. One capsule handles dairy equivalent to one cup of whole milk. The vegetarian capsules are kosher, soy-free, and produced in a GMP-certified facility. NOW Foods has been in the supplement industry since 1968, providing an established track record for quality and consistency.
Pros:
- Digests lactose, proteins, and fats
- Addresses multiple causes of dairy sensitivity
- Trusted brand with GMP certification
- Vegetarian and kosher
Cons:
- Lower lactase concentration than pure lactase supplements
- May not be sufficient for severe lactose intolerance
Best for: People who experience dairy discomfort even when taking lactase supplements, suggesting sensitivity to milk proteins or fats.
4. Lacto-Freedom Probiotic – Best Long-Term Solution
Why it stands out: Rather than supplementing with external lactase, this innovative probiotic actually helps your gut produce its own lactase enzymes. A 7-day course provides months of relief, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for daily supplementation.
This probiotic approach uses specific bacterial strains that colonize your gut and naturally produce lactase enzymes. Take for 7 consecutive days, then repeat monthly as needed. Users report being able to enjoy dairy freely for weeks after completing a course. The formula works by addressing the root cause of lactose intolerance rather than just treating symptoms. This is particularly appealing for people who don’t want to remember to take pills with every dairy-containing meal.
Pros:
- Long-lasting relief from one 7-day course
- Addresses root cause, not just symptoms
- No need to take with every meal
- High viral score indicates strong customer satisfaction
Cons:
- Takes several days before effects are noticeable
- Requires monthly maintenance doses
- May not work for everyone
Best for: People seeking a long-term solution who want to reduce their dependence on taking lactase with every meal.
5. Best Naturals 9000 FCC – Best Value
Why it stands out: Offering the same 9,000 FCC potency as name-brand options at a fraction of the cost, Best Naturals delivers 180 tablets per bottle—enough for up to 6 months of regular dairy consumption.
Each tablet is third-party lab tested for purity and quality, manufactured in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility in the USA. The clean formula contains no artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives and is free from common allergens including milk, corn, soy, egg, gluten, wheat, and yeast. At roughly 10 cents per tablet, this represents exceptional value for a high-potency lactase supplement. The tablets are small and easy to swallow, making compliance straightforward.
Pros:
- Excellent value (180 tablets)
- Third-party tested for quality
- Free from major allergens
- Made in USA in FDA-registered facility
Cons:
- Tablets can be slightly chalky
- No individual packaging for travel
Best for: Budget-conscious consumers who want effective lactase supplementation without paying premium prices.
6. Carlyle Lactase 9000 FCC – Best Budget Option
Why it stands out: Carlyle offers one of the most affordable per-tablet costs on the market while maintaining the recommended 9,000 FCC potency and vegetarian-friendly formula.
This budget-friendly option provides 180 fast-acting tablets without sacrificing quality. The vegetarian formula is non-GMO and gluten-free, suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Carlyle follows strict quality control standards, and customer reviews consistently praise the effectiveness at this price point. The tablets work quickly to promote dairy digestion and help prevent the gas, bloating, and discomfort associated with lactose intolerance.
Pros:
- Very affordable per-tablet cost
- Vegetarian and gluten-free
- Fast-acting formula
- Large 180-count bottle
Cons:
- Less brand recognition than Lactaid
- No travel-friendly packaging
Best for: Price-sensitive shoppers who want effective lactase supplementation at the lowest cost per dose.
7. Zenwise No Bloat – Best for Bloating Relief
Why it stands out: Zenwise combines lactase with a comprehensive blend of 9 digestive enzymes, probiotics, and soothing botanicals like ginger and turmeric for complete digestive support beyond just lactose digestion.
The formula includes protease, amylase, lipase, and alpha-galactosidase alongside lactase, helping break down all food types—not just dairy. The clinically studied DE111 probiotic strain supports long-term gut health, while turmeric, ginger, dandelion, and fennel soothe digestive discomfort and reduce water retention. Take 2 capsules after meals for best results. This is an excellent choice for people who experience general digestive issues in addition to lactose intolerance.
Pros:
- Multi-enzyme blend for complete digestion
- Added probiotics for gut health
- Soothing botanicals reduce inflammation
- Addresses bloating from multiple causes
Cons:
- Lower standalone lactase concentration
- Requires 2 capsules per serving
- Higher price per dose
Best for: People who experience bloating and digestive discomfort from multiple food types, not just dairy.
8. Double Wood Digestive Enzymes – Best Full-Spectrum Enzymes
Why it stands out: This comprehensive 10-enzyme blend covers all macronutrients with 800mg of enzyme support per serving, including amylase, lipase, bromelain, lactase, papain, protease, cellulase, maltase, and invertase.
Double Wood’s formula is designed for complete digestive support, making it ideal for people who experience digestive issues beyond just lactose intolerance. The broad-spectrum approach helps break down proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber from all food sources. With 180 capsules per bottle (90 servings), this provides excellent value for a full-spectrum enzyme supplement. The company is known for its commitment to purity and third-party testing.
Pros:
- Comprehensive 10-enzyme formula
- Supports digestion of all food types
- 90 servings per bottle
- Third-party tested for quality
Cons:
- Lactase is only one of many enzymes
- May not provide enough lactase for severe intolerance
- Requires 2 capsules per serving
Best for: People seeking overall digestive support who have mild lactose intolerance along with other digestive concerns.
9. Lactaid Fast Act Chewables – Best Chewable
Why it stands out: For those who prefer not to swallow pills, Lactaid’s chewable tablets deliver the same 9,000 FCC units in a pleasant vanilla twist flavor that works just as fast as the caplet version.
The smooth vanilla flavor makes these chewables easy to take, even for children ages 4 and up. Each individually wrapped tablet starts working with your first bite of dairy, making them perfect for situations where you can’t easily swallow a pill with water. The single-dose packaging fits easily in a pocket or purse for on-the-go use. Certified kosher and suitable for the whole family, these are ideal for parents managing lactose intolerance in children.
Pros:
- Pleasant vanilla flavor
- No water needed
- Same potency as caplets (9,000 FCC)
- Great for kids and pill-averse adults
Cons:
- Contains sweeteners for flavor
- Slightly more expensive than caplets
- Chewables may be less discreet
Best for: Children, seniors, or anyone who has difficulty swallowing pills and prefers a tasty chewable option.
10. Legendairy Milk Digestive Enzymes – Best for Women
Why it stands out: Formulated specifically for women’s digestive needs, this comprehensive enzyme blend includes ginger and fennel—ingredients traditionally used to ease digestive discomfort, particularly during hormonal fluctuations.
Legendairy Milk, known for their lactation supplements, developed this formula to support women’s gut health throughout all life stages. The blend includes digestive enzymes along with probiotics, ginger, and fennel to address bloating, gas, and discomfort. The 60-capsule bottle provides a full month’s supply at standard dosing. While designed with women in mind, the formula works effectively for anyone seeking gentle, comprehensive digestive support.
Pros:
- Formulated for women’s unique needs
- Includes soothing ginger and fennel
- Probiotics for gut health
- Trusted women’s health brand
Cons:
- Lower standalone lactase content
- Premium price point
- May be overkill for simple lactose intolerance
Best for: Women experiencing digestive issues related to hormonal changes who also have lactose sensitivity.
What is Lactase and Who Should Take It?
Lactase is the digestive enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, the natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. Produced in the small intestine, lactase splits lactose into two simpler sugars—glucose and galactose—that your body can easily absorb and use for energy. In people with lactose intolerance, the small intestine doesn’t produce enough lactase, causing undigested lactose to travel to the colon where bacteria ferment it, producing the uncomfortable symptoms of gas, bloating, cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.
Lactose intolerance affects an estimated 68% of the world’s population to some degree, with rates varying significantly by ethnic background. It’s most common among people of East Asian, West African, Arab, Jewish, Greek, and Italian descent, while those of Northern European ancestry have the lowest rates. The condition typically develops gradually during adolescence or adulthood as the body naturally produces less lactase after weaning—a process called lactase non-persistence.
Lactase supplements are ideal for anyone diagnosed with lactose intolerance who wants to enjoy dairy without discomfort. They’re also helpful for people who experience occasional dairy sensitivity, those who want to eat freely at social events or restaurants without worrying about hidden dairy in sauces, bread, and processed foods, and anyone who has avoided dairy and wants to reintroduce it gradually. Many people find supplements particularly valuable for travel, dining out, or attending events where controlling ingredients isn’t possible.
How to Choose the Right Lactase Supplement
Key Factors to Consider
FCC Potency: The Food Chemical Codex (FCC) rating indicates enzyme activity—essentially how much lactose the enzyme can break down. Most experts recommend 6,000-10,000 FCC units for a typical dairy-containing meal like a glass of milk, bowl of ice cream, or cheese-topped pizza. People with severe intolerance may need 14,000+ FCC units per meal. To put this in perspective, breaking down the lactose in one glass of milk (about 12 grams of lactose) requires approximately 6,000-10,000 FCC units.
Higher potency isn’t always better—match the strength to your sensitivity level and the amount of dairy you plan to consume. Taking more lactase than you need won’t cause harm since excess enzyme is simply digested as protein, but you’ll waste money. Some people prefer higher-potency options like 14,500 FCC because they eliminate the need to calculate lactose content, providing a safety margin for meals with unknown dairy amounts.
Form Factor: Caplets and tablets are most common, usually cost less per dose, and store well long-term. Chewables work excellently for those who can’t swallow pills, including children and some seniors, though they may contain sweeteners for palatability. Liquid drops offer the most precise dosing and can be added directly to milk before drinking, pre-digesting the lactose before you even consume it—particularly useful for baby formula or cooking.
Additional Ingredients: Some formulas combine lactase with other digestive enzymes like protease (for proteins), lipase (for fats), and amylase (for carbohydrates). These comprehensive formulas work better for people with multiple digestive sensitivities or general digestive weakness, but may not provide optimal lactase concentration for severe lactose intolerance. Probiotic-enhanced formulas offer ongoing gut support and may help some people reduce their reliance on enzyme supplementation over time.
Packaging and Portability: Consider how you’ll use the supplement. Individually wrapped doses are perfect for travel, dining out, or keeping in your purse, wallet, or desk. Bulk bottles offer better value for home use. Some brands offer travel tins or credit-card-sized sleeves that fit discreetly in a pocket.
What to Avoid
Watch out for supplements with excessive fillers, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives that don’t contribute to effectiveness. If you have allergies, check labels carefully—most lactase supplements are derived from Aspergillus oryzae, a fungus, which may trigger reactions in people with mold sensitivities. Some products contain common allergens like soy, gluten, or corn as inactive ingredients.
Avoid supplements that don’t clearly state their FCC potency, as this makes it impossible to dose correctly. Generic claims like “extra strength” without specific FCC numbers are red flags. Also be wary of products making cure claims—lactase supplements help manage symptoms but don’t cure lactose intolerance, and any product claiming otherwise is being misleading.
Side Effects and Precautions
Lactase supplements are generally very safe since lactase is a naturally occurring enzyme that your body normally produces. When you take lactase orally, it works directly in your digestive tract to break down lactose, then any excess enzyme is simply digested like any other dietary protein—similar to how your body processes eggs, meat, or nuts. There’s no accumulation in the body and no risk of overdose.
Mild side effects are rare but may include occasional gas, nausea, cramping, or diarrhea in sensitive individuals. These effects are typically related to individual sensitivity to inactive ingredients rather than the lactase itself. If you experience persistent digestive upset, try switching to a different brand with a cleaner ingredient profile.
People with fungal allergies should exercise caution, as most lactase supplements are derived from Aspergillus oryzae fungi. While the enzyme is highly purified, trace fungal proteins may remain that could trigger reactions in highly sensitive individuals. Those with severe digestive disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease or any condition affecting enzyme production, should consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
Importantly, lactase supplements are not appropriate for people with milk allergies—they only help with lactose digestion, not immune reactions to milk proteins like casein or whey. Milk allergy is an immune-mediated condition that can cause symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. If you’re unsure whether you have lactose intolerance or milk allergy, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis before using lactase supplements.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using any supplement, though lactase is generally considered safe during pregnancy. There are no known drug interactions with lactase supplements, but as with any supplement, inform your healthcare provider about everything you’re taking.
FAQs
How many FCC units of lactase do I need per meal?
Most people need 6,000-10,000 FCC units for a standard dairy-containing meal like a glass of milk, bowl of ice cream, or slice of cheese pizza. For smaller amounts of dairy like a splash of cream in coffee, 3,000 FCC may be sufficient. Those with severe intolerance may need 14,000+ FCC units per meal. Start with the manufacturer’s recommended dose and adjust based on your response—if you still experience symptoms, increase the dose at your next dairy-containing meal.
When should I take lactase supplements?
Take lactase immediately before or with your first bite or sip of dairy. The enzyme needs to be present in your digestive system when lactose arrives to work effectively. Taking it after eating dairy or more than 30 minutes before won’t be effective since the enzyme may be digested before the lactose reaches it. If your meal lasts longer than 30-45 minutes or includes multiple dairy courses, take another dose mid-meal. Timing is more important than the exact dose for most people.
Can I take lactase supplements every day?
Yes, lactase supplements are safe for daily use with every dairy-containing meal or snack. Since lactase is a protein your body naturally produces, there’s no buildup, tolerance effect, or dependency concern. Many people take multiple doses daily—one with each meal containing dairy—without any issues. Unlike some medications, there’s no need to cycle on and off lactase supplementation.
How long do lactase supplements take to work?
Lactase supplements begin working immediately once they reach your stomach and mix with dairy foods. You should be able to consume dairy without symptoms within minutes of taking the supplement. If you still experience discomfort, you may need a higher dose, a more comprehensive enzyme formula that also addresses milk proteins and fats, or you may want to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other digestive conditions.
Do lactase supplements work for milk allergies?
No. Lactase supplements only help digest lactose sugar—they do not address allergic reactions to milk proteins like casein and whey. If you have a milk allergy (which involves the immune system producing antibodies against milk proteins), you must avoid dairy completely regardless of lactase supplementation. Lactase supplements are only for lactose intolerance, which is a digestive issue caused by insufficient enzyme production, not an immune response.
Can children take lactase supplements?
Yes, most lactase supplements are safe for children ages 4 and up. Chewable formulas with pleasant flavors are often easier for kids to take. Consult your pediatrician before starting supplementation, especially for younger children, and always follow age-appropriate dosing guidelines on the product label. For infants with lactose intolerance, lactase drops that can be added directly to formula or breast milk are available by prescription or specialty supplement retailers.
What foods contain hidden lactose I should watch for?
Lactose appears in many unexpected places beyond obvious dairy products. Watch for it in bread and baked goods, processed meats and deli slices, salad dressings and mayonnaise, instant soups and sauces, protein bars and shakes, medications and supplements (as a filler), candy and chocolate, and many processed foods. Reading ingredient labels for milk, whey, casein, curds, lactose, and dry milk solids can help you identify hidden sources.
Final Verdict
For most people with lactose intolerance, Lactaid Fast Act remains the gold standard—it’s proven, widely available, and offers convenient single-dose packaging for on-the-go use. If you have moderate to severe intolerance and want maximum coverage without calculating doses, LactoJoy 14,500 FCC provides the highest potency available.
Budget-conscious shoppers can’t go wrong with Best Naturals 9000 FCC, which offers the same effective dose at a fraction of the cost. And for those who react to dairy even with standard lactase supplements, NOW Dairy Digest Complete addresses lactose, proteins, and fats for comprehensive dairy digestion support.
