Lactase is produced in the:

Lactase is an enzyme responsible for the digestion of lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is produced in the small intestine, specifically by the cells lining the intestinal villi. The small intestine plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients; in this case, lactase breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose, which can then be absorbed into the bloodstream.

This physiological process highlights the importance of the small intestine in nutrient metabolism and the processing of food components, which is why the production of lactase is specifically localized to this part of the digestive system. Understanding where lactase is produced also helps explain conditions like lactose intolerance, where insufficient lactase can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms after the consumption of lactose-containing foods.