Lacto

Lacto, derived from the Latin word "lac" meaning milk, is a prefix used in scientific and medical terminology to indicate a connection to milk or lactic acid. It frequently appears in the names of foods, chemical compounds, and biological processes related to milk and its components, or to the bacteria involved in milk fermentation. This prefix offers concise identification of milk related substances or activities and aids in classification, such as in categorizing food components or types of bacteria. The term is also used for the type of diet in which dairy is included.

Lacto meaning with examples

• Lactobacillus, a common probiotic, is used in the production of yogurt and cheese. Lactose, a disaccharide sugar found in milk, is often a concern for those with lactose intolerance. A lacto-ovo vegetarian diet includes both dairy products and eggs alongside plant-based foods. Lactate, produced during anaerobic respiration, is the ionic form of lactic acid which builds up in muscles during intense exercise.
• A lacto-vegetarian diet, which includes dairy products but excludes meat and eggs, is a popular dietary choice for health or ethical reasons. Lactoferrin, found in milk, possesses antibacterial properties and contributes to infant health. Many infant formulas are partially or wholly derived from cow's milk, thus using the prefix 'lacto'. The lactogenic hormone prolactin stimulates milk production in mammals following childbirth.
• In the context of dairy products, the prefix lacto helps denote different items like lacto-fermented foods that include kimchi and sauerkraut. The term is used as a prefix in the name for the lactose that occurs naturally in milk and whey, an ingredient often found in processed foods. Dairy farmers often utilize lacto-cows as part of their operation as well as ensuring proper milk storage practices. Products such as ice cream or yogurts use the lacto-prefix because they are dairy-based.
• Milk sugar or lactose is the sugar that occurs naturally in milk from all mammals. Lactoferrin is a protein that is naturally found in milk which helps keep you healthy. A 'lactophile' is someone who loves and/or consumes a lot of milk and dairy products. The lacto-vegetarian diet excludes meat and eggs but includes dairy products.