Yes, Costco sells Lactaid, along with a popular store-brand alternative
For shoppers managing lactose intolerance, Costco offers a convenient solution with its selection of lactase enzyme supplements. The warehouse carries both the well-known brand Lactaid and its own Kirkland Signature version, providing options based on brand preference and price. However, there are key differences in availability and packaging between the two that members should know before shopping.
Costco's Lactase Enzyme Options
Costco typically sells the name-brand Lactaid Fast Act in larger, bulk quantities exclusively through its website, Costco.com. This is ideal for those who prefer the name brand and are planning ahead, as it's not a product readily found in most physical warehouses. In contrast, the Kirkland Signature Fast Acting Lactase is usually available both online and in-store, and is the more prominent option on warehouse shelves.
Here is a quick breakdown of what to expect from each product:
- Lactaid Fast Act Caplets (Name Brand): This product is most reliably found on Costco's website, often sold in packages of 120 caplets (two boxes of 60). The name brand is highly trusted and works quickly to help digest lactose. It’s a good option for those who have found it effective in the past and prefer its specific formulation.
- Kirkland Signature Fast Acting Lactase Caplets (Store Brand): The Kirkland alternative is a staple in Costco's health and wellness section. It's available in bulk, such as a bottle containing 180 caplets, and often comes at a lower price per pill. While the potency is generally considered comparable, some user reviews have noted variations in effectiveness or packaging quality, so personal tolerance may play a role.
Comparing Lactaid vs. Kirkland Signature Lactase at Costco
When deciding which supplement to purchase, it's helpful to compare the two directly. Here’s a comparison table to help you decide:
| Feature | Lactaid Fast Act | Kirkland Signature Fast Acting Lactase |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Name Brand | Store Brand (Kirkland Signature) |
| Typical Availability | Online at Costco.com (not reliably in-store) | In-store and online (more consistently in-store) |
| Typical Quantity | 120 caplets (2x 60-ct boxes) | 180 caplets (bulk bottle or individually wrapped) |
| Typical Price | Generally higher per caplet | Generally lower per caplet |
| Packaging | Boxes of individually wrapped caplets | Bulk bottle or individually wrapped sheets, depending on the variant |
| User Feedback | Consistently effective, trusted brand name | Effective for many, but some mixed reviews on consistency |
What to Consider When Choosing Your Lactase Pills
Here are some factors to weigh when making your choice:
- Cost: The Kirkland Signature brand is almost always the more economical option for members, especially for frequent users. However, it's worth noting that prices can fluctuate, particularly with online deals and promotions.
- Effectiveness: While both products contain the same active lactase enzyme, individual body chemistry can cause different results. Some users on forums like Reddit report that the name-brand Lactaid works more reliably for them, while others find the Kirkland version just as effective. It may be worth trying the less expensive Kirkland option first to see if it meets your needs.
- Convenience and Packaging: Both products have historically been available in individually wrapped caplets, which is convenient for travel but can be cumbersome for daily use. Some variants or alternative purchasing methods, such as those sold by third-party retailers sourced from Costco, offer bulk-bottle options for easier dispensing.
Understanding Lactase Enzyme Supplements
For those newly navigating lactose intolerance, lactase is the enzyme your body needs to break down the milk sugar, lactose. When your body doesn't produce enough lactase, consuming dairy can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Lactase supplements, like those sold at Costco, are taken with the first bite or sip of a dairy product to help your body process the lactose and prevent symptoms.
How to Purchase Lactase at Costco
To purchase, simply visit a Costco warehouse for the Kirkland Signature brand, or head to Costco.com for both the Kirkland and Lactaid options. Since availability can vary, checking Costco.com is the most reliable way to see all current offerings. You can filter by health and wellness products to find digestive aids quickly.
Conclusion
Costco is a reliable source for lactase enzyme supplements, offering both the trusted name-brand Lactaid (primarily online) and its popular, value-driven Kirkland Signature counterpart (both in-store and online). Your choice will likely come down to brand preference, budget, and personal effectiveness. For maximum value, the Kirkland Signature pills are the clear winner, but for those who prefer consistent name-brand performance, ordering the Lactaid Fast Act from Costco.com is the best bet. Either way, Costco has a solution to help members manage lactose intolerance and enjoy their favorite dairy products.
Visit the official Costco website for current product availability.
