The researchers said their alternative could be specially formulated for people with allergies to cow’s milk, as well as those who are lactose or gluten intolerant.

The varieties include a 2% reduced fat, fat-free, fat-free extra, vitamin D and vanilla almond fat-free options.

A recent survey of patients with lactose intolerance revealed that more than three fourths of them reduce or eliminate dairy from their diets as the primary means of "managing" their symptoms.

The satiating element of fiber has led to its inclusion in a number of weight-management strategies and products, both in the U.S. and abroad. In Germany, for instance, Pronatura’s Inulin Fibre is a prebiotic designed to support weight control when consumed regularly.

Whether fueled by celebrity dieting efforts or genuine dietary need (or even both), the market for allergen-free products in the U.S. continues to grow, but the surge is by no means confined stateside.

Scientists at a north China university say they have bred the world's first genetically modified calf that will produce low-lactose milk in two years.