Is Gouda Lactose-Free?

So, Can You Eat Gouda Without Regretting It Later?

Gouda cheese—smooth, creamy, and ridiculously delicious—is one of the most popular cheeses in the world. But if you’re lactose intolerant, you might be giving it some serious side-eye. Because let’s be real: nobody wants to roll the dice on bloating and stomach drama.

Since Gouda is made from cow’s milk, it does contain lactose. But here’s the good news: it’s not nearly as much as you’d think.

How Much Lactose Are We Talking?

Not a lot! Gouda is actually considered a low-lactose cheese because most of the lactose gets broken down during the cheese-making process. Here’s the deal:

• Gouda has about 0.63 grams of lactose per serving.
• Anything under 2 gram per serving can be considered “low-lactose.”

So while Gouda isn’t 100% lactose-free, it’s way easier on your stomach than a glass of milk or a slice of fresh mozzarella.

But Can You Actually Eat It?

If you’re lactose intolerant, you probably won’t have an issue—especially if you go for aged Gouda. The older the cheese, the less lactose it has.

A lot of lactose-intolerant people can eat low-lactose cheeses without a problem. But if even a tiny bit of dairy sends you running for the exit, you might want to play it safe. The best way to find out? Try a small bite and see how you feel.

And if you’re super sensitive? Talk to your doctor or a dietitian before making Gouda a regular thing.

What If Gouda Still Messes You Up?

No worries, there are plenty of other cheeses that won’t betray you. If you need a totally lactose-free option, check these out:

• Aged cheddar – Similar texture, sharp and nutty flavor.
• Parmesan – A little saltier, but full of umami goodness.
• Swiss cheese – Mild, melty, and sandwich-friendly.

These cheeses go through a longer aging process, which means almost all the lactose disappears.

The Final Word

Gouda isn’t completely lactose-free, but it’s low-lactose enough that most people with intolerance can handle it. If you’re unsure, try a little and see how it goes. Worst case? There are plenty of tasty alternatives waiting for you.

So grab some crackers, slice up some cheese, and enjoy—just, you know, responsibly.