Developments in Indigenous Dairy Products

40 The importance and completeness of milk as a human food was realized prior to ‘Vedic’ times itself. This recognition of the socio-economic eminence of milk in human nutriture instinctively led ancient Indians to conserve such nutrients into more stable products under the tropical climatic conditions. The concerted efforts towards such accomplishment included concentration, fermentation, acid coagulation, use of preservatives such as sugar and fillers like flour, rice, etc. This resulted into introduction of an array of products, some of which are peculiar to India. Presently around 150 types of milk based sweet meats are available in the country. Their place in the dietary regime as well as socio-economic connotations remains significant through cultural heritage. It goes without saying that in India, no festival or marriage is complete without serving milk-based sweets. There is also a growing trend and interest in exporting traditional milk-based sweets.