USDA Ctrl & West Lactose 04/09 13:15

AMS_1052 MARS

Lactose - Central and West U.S.

Released on April 09, 2026

Lactose prices were mostly steady this week, aside from a slight decrease at 
the top of the range. Production remains steady, but tight inventories continue 
to constrain availability, particularly for 100-mesh product. Some 
manufacturers are fully committed through Q2 and report that quarterly 
negotiations have concluded. Demand remains strong both domestically and 
internationally. Monthly priced customers have agreed to May prices in the high 
$0.50s for standard 100-mesh lactose and the low to mid $0.60s for higher mesh 
and infant formula grade product. A few contacts note a slowdown in new sales 
activity, and some exporters report challenges as European pricing appears more 
competitive than U.S. Some contacts also report hesitant purchasing interest 
from Mexico at current price levels, while others note unclaimed lactose loads 
offered at AOM. Overall, the market tone remains firm.

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 - 0.66
Mostly Range - Non Pharmaceutical; Dollars per Pound: 0.51 - 0.59


Information for the period April 6 - 10, 2026, issued weekly

Secondary Sourced Information:

N/A

[0600059B]