USDA Ctrl & West Lactose 04/02 11:45

AMS_1052 MARS

Lactose - Central and West U.S.

Released on April 02, 2026

Lactose prices strengthened across the full range, while the mostly series held 
steady. Bookings for 200-mesh lactose are occurring in the mid-to-high $.60s. 
Elevated price levels are tempering some buyer activity, though prices remain 
above year-ago values. Production is steady, but manufacturers report limited 
surplus as strong domestic and export demand continues to absorb output. 
Inventories are tight, with some manufacturers sold out through Q2, while a few 
still have small volumes of Q1 product to move, and others report little to no 
spot availability. Domestic demand remains firm, as does export interest, 
particularly from Mexico and Central America for SMP standardization. The 
market tone is firm, and overall conditions continue to support upward price 
movement.

Prices for: Central/West US, Spot Sales And Up to 3 Month Contracts, F.O.B., 
N/A, Edible Lactose
Price Range - Non Pharmaceutical; Dollars per Pound: 0.46 - 0.69
Mostly Range - Non Pharmaceutical; Dollars per Pound: 0.51 - 0.59


Information for the period March 30 -  April 3, 2026, issued weekly

Secondary Sourced Information:

N/A

[0600059B]