Intolerância à lactose: um levantamento sobre produtos existentes no mercado, dificuldades dos portadores da doença e aspectos de análises laboratoriais

Abstract

Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body has difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar present in milk and dairy products, due to the deficiency or absence of the lactase enzyme. This condition is often confused with milk allergy, but the symptoms are distinct. Lactose-free dairy products represent a growing market segment. Given the context, this work aims to seek information on how companies in the food sector develop their products aimed at the lactose intolerant public, serving as an information base for other people. The objective of this work was to carry out a survey of aspects related to lactose intolerance through interviews, survey of the quantity of lactose-free products available on the current market; interview people with lactose intolerance about their difficulties today and in the past in relation to the availability of products; carry out a survey of the main existing analysis methodologies for detecting lactose. It was possible to conclude that it is equally essential to ensure that lactose-free products are more easily accessible to consumers and can reach all cities in Brazil, offering a diverse range of options.