α-Lactose (hydrate) (α-D-Lactose (hydrate)), the main carbohydrate in mammalian milk, comprises two sugar units: glucose and galactose, and occurs as two anomers, α and β. It serves multiple roles in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, including as a free-flowing or agglomerating agent, and a diluent for pigments, flavors, or enzymes [1] [2] [3].

α-Lactose is the major sugar present in milk and the main source of energy supplied to the newborn mammalian in its mother's milk. Lactose is also an important osmotic regulator of lactation.