Hi -

In general, people who are severely allergic to casein also avoid lactose
due to cross contamination.  After all, both come from the same milk!

Most people with lactose intolerance can manage caseins, however, since
*most* people with LI can consume the trace amounts from cross
contamination without undue difficulty.

If you are LI, your best bet is to avoid lactose, but take lactaid (or
other brand) pills when lactose can't be avoided.  Just keep them on you.
They work pretty well.

For coffee at home, you can try Rich's brand dairy-free creamer (I
think it's called Coffee Rich).  Or learn to drink it black :-)

I hope this helps,
--Beth Kevles
  [log in to unmask]
  http://web.mit.edu/kevles/www/nomilk.html -- a page for the milk-allergic
  Disclaimer:  Nothing in this message should be construed as medical
  advice.  Please consult with your own medical practicioner.