Lactose (milk sugar)
Term from the Brauwerkstatt brewing glossary, category “Ingredients”.
Explanation
Sugar from milk that brewer’s yeast cannot ferment. It stays in the beer and adds sweetness and body, typically in milk stout. Beer with lactose is not vegan and not suitable for people with lactose intolerance.
Test your knowledge
Why does lactose make a beer sweet?
- Brewer’s yeast cannot ferment milk sugar
- Lactose is bitter
- Lactose turns into alcohol
Show answer
Correct: Brewer’s yeast cannot ferment milk sugar. The milk sugar stays in the beer and adds sweetness and body, typically in milk stout.
What makes a cream ale creamy?
- Lots of lactose
- Only the name – it contains neither cream nor lactose
- Real cream
Show answer
Correct: Only the name – it contains neither cream nor lactose. Cream ale is pale, light and crisp, often brewed with corn or rice.