Finns take lactose- free milk abroad

It is looking beyond neighbouring countries and those buying from the company's foreign subsidiaries; new and revamped products will go on sale in Central Europe and China.

Valio says it launched the world's first totally lactose-free milk drink in Finland in 2001, then set about developing a range for local markets and licensing the technology worldwide.

The co-op's patented technology for lactose-free dairy partly digests the proteins, making products that suit sensitive stomachs. Research indicates that incompletely digested milk proteins in the gut may cause unpleasant stomach symptoms.

Valio claims the widest selection of naturally healthy, quality lactose-free products, "yet with all the natural taste, vitamins and minerals people expect," says Pia Jormanainen, senior vice-president business development new markets.

The range includes a semi-skim milk drink, a high protein milk drink, Barista milk for coffee, whipping cream, butter and a spread.