USDA Ctrl & West Lactose 05/21 12:30

AMS_1052 MARS

Lactose - Central and West U.S.

Released on May 21, 2026

Lactose prices eased at the lower end, but strengthened at the upper end of the 
price range, while the mostly range held steady. Demand remains strong, keeping 
prices above year-ago levels. Some manufacturers report limited spot loads and 
small amounts of remaining June inventory. Other contacts are sold out, but 
note they could move product in the low $0.60s to low $0.70s if inventory were 
available. Q3 negotiations continue, with prices spanning $0.57 to $0.70. 
European lactose prices are also climbing, with contacts reporting loads 
trading at prices starting in the $0.70s. Overall, domestic production 
constraints and tight inventories are supporting a firm market tone.

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: 0.45 - 0.7
Mostly Range - Non Pharmaceutical; Dollars per Pound: 0.55 - 0.63


Information for the period May 18 - 22, 2026, issued weekly

Secondary Sourced Information:

N/A

[0600059B]