Is there lactose in edam?
Very little — a safe, mild choice.
Edam, the mild Dutch cheese in the red wax, is very low in lactose. Like other firm, aged cheeses, most of its lactose drains off during making and the rest breaks down as it matures.
Edam — the mild, firm cheese wrapped in that unmistakable red wax — is a quiet win for the lactose-intolerant. It’s a Dutch cousin of gouda, aged until firm, and like all well-made firm cheeses it loses most of its lactose to the whey during production, with the rest breaking down as it matures.
Don’t be fooled: the red wax is just a coat, not a clue — it does nothing to the lactose. It’s the ageing inside that counts, and edam has plenty of it. A slice on a cracker is an easy, safe snack.
How much lactose is in edam?
Edam contains under 0.1 g of lactose per 100 g — essentially nil in a 30 g serve. Its firm, aged nature keeps it low, comfortably under milk and fresh cheeses.
| Food | Lactose per 100 g | Per typical serve |
|---|---|---|
| Edam | <0.1 g | ~0 g (30 g) |
| Cow's milk | 4.8 g | ~12 g (250 mL) |
| Cottage cheese | 1.8–3 g | ~2–3 g (100 g) |
Figures compiled from food-composition databases — see the full lactose chart & sources.
When to take a little care
Processed edam-style slices can carry added milk solids and a touch more lactose. Stick to real block edam for the lowest — see the full chart for how the cheeses compare.
If edam isn't handy, reach for…
Common questions
Is edam OK for lactose intolerance?
Is edam lower in lactose than gouda?
Does the wax on edam matter?
Want the full picture? Grab our free Living Lactose-Free in Australia cheat sheet — it sorts 60+ foods like this one so you never have to guess at the supermarket again.