In which food category is lactose primarily found?

Lactose is primarily found in milk and dairy products. It is a natural sugar composed of glucose and galactose, forming when milk is digested. Milk, whether from cows, goats, or other mammals, is the richest source of lactose. In addition to liquid milk, other dairy products such as cheese and yogurt also contain varying amounts of lactose, though the fermentation process in yogurt can reduce its levels.

On the other hand, vegetables, meat, and grains do not contain lactose. Vegetables contain various carbohydrates but not dairy sugars, meat is primarily a source of protein and fats, and grains mainly provide starches, fiber, and other nutrients. Understanding the primary sources of nutrients helps in making informed dietary choices and managing conditions like lactose intolerance, where individuals may struggle to digest lactose properly.