Calcium lactate is available as a dietary supplement and appears as an ingredient in a variety of foods. Although it may sound like a dairy derivative, calcium lactate is typically a dairy-free product. Like other calcium supplements, calcium lactate can be used to raise or prevent low calcium levels. The calcium content of supplements is listed on the label as elemental calcium, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Check the ingredient list to determine if calcium lactate is the source of calcium in a supplement product.
Properties
Calcium lactate is a product of fermented lactic acid. It is a highly soluble calcium salt produced during the fermentation process. According to the Vegetarian Resource Group, beet sugar or hydrolyzed cornstarch are common fermentation mediums used to create lactic acid. This makes calcium lactate a vegan ingredient or supplement. However, imported products may use whey to make lactic acid, so check with the manufacturer before consumption if you have a lactose intolerance or follow a vegan diet.
Calcium Content
Although the most common calcium supplements are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate, calcium lactate is also an option. However, the source of the calcium affects the amount of elemental calcium available from a supplement. Roughly 13 percent of calcium lactate supplements is elemental calcium. Calcium carbonate, which consists of 40 percent elemental calcium, provides a higher percentage than calcium citrate, gluconate or lactate. Taking calcium supplements with food generally improves absorption.
Food Fortification
Calcium lactate may be used to fortify certain types of foods and beverages. Juice, juice beverages, baby food, soy-based beverages, powdered drinks and nectars, for example, may be fortified with calcium lactate, according to Purac. Check the ingredient list of fortified foods to determine if calcium lactate is the calcium source. Calcium citrate malate is also used in some calcium-fortified fruit juices.
Considerations
Adults need 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium daily, depending on age and gender. Men are more likely than women to consume enough calcium from their diets, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Vegetarians, postmenopausal women and lactose-intolerant individuals are at increased risk for inadequate calcium intake. If you're concerned about your calcium intake, talk with your doctor about whether you need supplementation, as well as which dosage and calcium preparation is right for you.
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