milchfrei
The English phrase "dairy free" is translated into German as milchfrei.
milchfrei is used to describe food or drinks that do not contain any milk or milk products.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of milch (milk) and the suffix -frei (free).
How does it change in a sentence?
When used as an adjective before a noun, milchfrei must take an adjective ending, such as milchfreie Produkte (dairy-free products).
Did you know?
- In Germany, the term Milchersatzprodukt (milk substitute product) is legally required for plant-based drinks. Because of strict EU laws, companies cannot call oat or soy drinks Milch (milk), as that word is legally reserved for animal milk.
- If you are looking for dairy-free options in a German bakery, you might see vegan instead of milchfrei. In German culture, vegan is often used as a shorthand 'umbrella term' on menus to signal the absence of both milk and eggs.
- While milchfrei is the literal term, you will often see the label laktosefrei (lactose-free) on German products. These are not interchangeable, as laktosefrei items can still contain milk proteins and are not safe for people with a milk allergy.
Examples in context
- Ich mag keine Milch. Gibt es hier etwas ohne Milch?I don't like milk. Is there anything here without milk?
- Ist dieses Dessert milchfrei?Is this dessert dairy free?
- Ich suche milchfreie Alternativen.I am looking for dairy free alternatives.
- Diese Schokolade ist komplett milchfrei.This chocolate is completely dairy free.
Example conversation
Laura and Lukas are shopping for snacks at a supermarket.
- LauraIst diese Margarine milchfrei?Is this margarine dairy free?
- LukasJa, sie ist milchfrei.Yes, it is dairy free.
- LauraGut, das passt für mich.Good, that works for me.
- LukasDann nehmen wir sie, Laura.Then let's take it, Laura.
