Spanish cooperative Covirán has introduced the 'sin lactosa' (no lactose) seal on approximately 50 own-brand products.
It has obtained certification from the Spanish Lactose Intolerant Association (ADILAC) and claims to be the first food distribution company to incorporate the seal on its assortment.
The 'no lactose' seal allows people affected by this food disorder to identify products suitable for consumption.
It also guarantees that companies comply with all the requirements for the commercialisation of the products, including laboratory analysis, subsequent monitoring and control.
Lactose Intolerance
According to estimates, around 20% to 40% of the population in Spain suffers from lactose intolerance.
Covirán supermarkets have introduced the 'sin lactosa' seal on the packaging of milk and dairy products, such as yoghurt and sausages, as well as other deli products, pates, tuna, canned fish, sweets, sauces, salmorejo, and ready meals.
These products are made with ingredients suitable for lactose intolerant people and cater to their nutritional and health needs.
President of Covirán, Patro Contreras commented, "It is necessary to respond to the special needs of a group of consumers who do not have to give up nutrients and food contributions that are basic in our daily diet."
She also praised the work carried out in the laboratories to reformulate and offer innovative products that are suitable for consumption by lactose-intolerant people.
Other Measures
Periodically, Covirán also organises information days on healthy eating focused on lactose intolerance, incorporating products to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, and aspects related to labelling and packaged foods.
It collaborates with nutritionists and experts from ADILAC to analyse consumption habits and offer alternatives.
Elsewhere, the Covirán website offers a list of own-brand SKUs suitable for consumers with lactose intolerance.
It also lists other 'green products' that do not contain lactose and do not pose any health risk, the company noted.
© 2022 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest packaging and design news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
