India has seen a surge in cases pertaining to gut health issues, nutritional and immune deficiencies, and digestive problems in the last few years. A 2023 study indicated that 7 out of 10 urban Indians face digestive or gut problems. Similarly, tolerance towards milk has also impacted ~60-65% of Indian population, according to a 2020 report. This has led to a change in the way we consume milk and milk products.
People’s preferences have transformed to gut-friendly dairy options or non-dairy substitutes as a way to ease stress on their bodies. Probiotic yogurts, fortified milk, functional cheese, healthy ice creams and plant-based dairy products have become a fad in the diet.
This sudden shift in demands has created a way for Indian brands to provide functional dairy products as per the changing needs. The diversification in milk and milk products is not just restricted to fat percentage in these products but also the benefits they offer to consumers in terms of overall health and development of the body. Today, brands rely upon percentage of micronutrients, immunity-boosting enzymes, gut bacteria, protein content and non-dairy alternatives to enhance lifestyle. Functional dairy products not just ensure health but also help controlling chronic disorders, such as, osteoporosis, coronary heart disease and hypertension.
Here’s a detailed look at galore options that promise taste and health in every bite:
Probiotic yogurt
Known for its nutritional content, probiotic yogurt boosts the immune system, regulate weight and reduce the risk of cancer. Probiotics are live microorganisms that have health benefits. They help enhance the absorption of vitamins and minerals and is recommended to those combating irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotic yogurt regulates digestive system and helps keep diarrhoea, bloating and constipation at bay. This delicious food is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, potassium and Vitamins A, B2 and B12.
Fortified milk
In simple terms, fortified milk is cow’s milk that contains extra vitamins and minerals, which are not naturally found in significant amounts. These nutrients are not just essential for the overall development of children but also combat bone related disorders in adults. Fortified milk is rich in Vitamins D and A. This helps improve immunity and vision, aids brain development and addresses nutrient deficiencies. Vitamin D in fortified milk improves the chances of calcium absorption and enables bone development.
Fortified cheese
Cheese is tasty as well as healthy as it is loaded with fat, vitamins and minerals. It is not just good for bones but also helps in weight management. Fortification to cheese means the addition of a nutrient, known as a fortifier or additive. Cheese fortification increases essential micronutrients, enhances nutritional value and increases the consumption of essential nutrients. The process provides health benefits with little to no risk and eliminates nutrient intake deficiencies.
Healthy ice creams
Healthy ice creams isn’t a myth. They are low in calories and fats and are rich in natural antioxidants. The ‘health’ in healthy ice creams come in the form of sugar-free, low-fat and high-protein variants. While sugar-free ones use real fruits or frozen yogurt as main ingredients, low-fat ice creams are made using low-fat milk and natural sweeteners, such as stevia and erythritol. High-protein ice creams are targeted to fitness-conscious consumers and are made from whey or pea proteins.
Plant-based dairy products
Unlike milk derived from animals, plant-based dairy products are hit among those who either find difficulty in digesting milk (lactose intolerant) or are environment conscious (vegan). The production process uses grains, nuts and seeds, such as oats, soy, almond, rice, cashew and coconut to obtain milk. Since plant-based ingredients are used, plant-based dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese and butter) contain less calories and saturated fat. In fact, they are also cholesterol-free.
About the Author:
Gunjan Goela
Founder Gunjan’s Kitchen
