Question

Lactase is used in production of __________

(a) skimmed milk

(b) high conversion syrups

(c) high maltose syrups

(d) cheese

I had been asked this question in examination.

This intriguing question originated from Large Scale Use of Enzyme in division Large Scale Use of Enzyme in Solution of Enzyme Technology

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) skimmed milk

To explain: Lactase hydrolyzes lactose to galactose and glucose. When lactase is added to milk or liquid whey and left for about a day at low temperatures about 50% of the lactose gets hydrolyzed to give a sweeter product which will not crystallize if condensed or frozen. This allows the use of wasted whey to replace it to skim milk powder which used in traditional ice cream recipes. It also improves the ‘scoopability’ and creaminess of the product.