What is the definition of lactose according to official classifications?

Lactose is defined as sugars containing by weight 99% or more lactose, expressed as anhydrous lactose and calculated on the dry matter.

How should high‑purity lactose be stored to maintain its quality?

High‑purity lactose should be kept in a dry, cool environment, protected from moisture and contaminants to preserve its anhydrous form.

What processing step is required to verify lactose purity for trade?

The purity is verified by measuring the lactose content on a dry‑matter basis, ensuring it meets the 99% threshold expressed as anhydrous lactose.

Lactose

Lactose is a dairy sugar that occurs in solid form and in syrup when it contains at least 99 % lactose expressed as anhydrous lactose on a dry‑matter basis. It is classified as a sugar product derived from milk and used as a sweetener or carrier in food applications.

Prices, specifications and international trade for lactose under HS 170211.

Lactose Price

$1,593USD/t

Published reference · Jul 1, 2026

Lactose Historical Unit Values

Lactose is quoted in USD/t at USA. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.

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Lactose Exports and Imports

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Germany led reported lactose exports in 2025, at $490M.

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Lactose Facts and HS Code

Lactose belongs to dairy within protein and dairy. Its customs classification covers HS 170211.

Lactose HS Code

Also known as	anhydrous lactose
Product type	Raw
Form	Dried
Position in the chain	Primary
Category	Dairy — Protein and dairy
HS codes	170211
Quoted in	USD/t
Reference location	USA

Production & Handling

Processing steps for lactose include Whey separation, Ultrafiltration, Evaporation.

Production and Storage

Perishability	Low
Temperature regime	Ambient
Processing steps	Whey separation Ultrafiltration Evaporation Crystallization Drying

Uses & Risks

Lactose is used in Dairy manufacturing, Confectionery, and Pharmaceuticals.

End Uses

Dairy manufacturing
Used as a sweetener and texture modifier in cheese, yogurt, and ice‑cream production
Confectionery
Provides bulk sweetness and improves mouthfeel in candies and baked goods
Pharmaceuticals
Serves as an excipient in tablets and as a carrier in liquid formulations

Uses and Related Commodities

Downstream industries	Food and beverage, Nutraceuticals, Pharmaceuticals

Lactose Questions

What is the definition of lactose according to official classifications?: Lactose is defined as sugars containing by weight 99% or more lactose, expressed as anhydrous lactose and calculated on the dry matter.
How should high‑purity lactose be stored to maintain its quality?: High‑purity lactose should be kept in a dry, cool environment, protected from moisture and contaminants to preserve its anhydrous form.
What processing step is required to verify lactose purity for trade?: The purity is verified by measuring the lactose content on a dry‑matter basis, ensuring it meets the 99% threshold expressed as anhydrous lactose.