Milk processing and milk products in India

Milk processing in India plays a significant role in the country's agricultural and industrial sectors. India is one of the world's largest milk producers, and dairy farming is an essential livelihood for millions of rural households. The milk processing industry in India has evolved over the years, and various dairy products are produced to cater to the diverse needs of consumers. Let's explore milk processing and some popular dairy products in India.

Milk Processing in India:

1. Milk Collection and Transportation: The process begins with the collection of raw milk from dairy farmers through village milk cooperatives or private collection centers. The collected milk is then transported to processing plants using milk tankers. Many small farmers have at least 1 cow. Every village can produce thousands of litres of milk. e.g. In Baramati taluka, we have Baramati Dudh Sangh (Milk Processing Unit) which works under Mr. Ajit Pawar.

2. Milk Testing and Quality Control: Upon arrival at the processing plant, the milk is tested for quality, including fat content, protein, solids, and contaminants. Quality control measures ensure that only high-quality milk is used for further processing.

3. Milk Pasteurization: Pasteurization is a crucial step in milk processing, where milk is heated to a specific temperature for a set duration to kill harmful bacteria while retaining essential nutrients.

4. Homogenization: Homogenization is the process of breaking down milk fat globules to ensure uniform distribution and prevent cream separation. This results in a consistent texture throughout the milk.

5. Standardization: Milk is often standardized to achieve a specific fat content (e.g., full cream, toned, double-toned) to meet consumer preferences.

6. Packaging: The processed milk is then packaged into various containers, such as pouches, cartons, bottles, or tetra packs, for distribution and retail sale.

Popular Dairy Products in India:

1. Paneer: Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a versatile dairy product widely used in Indian cuisine. It is made by curdling milk with lemon juice or vinegar and then draining the whey. Boil the milk at 90 °C and then temperature is reduced to 70 °C and then you need to add citric acid (same temp). Keep the mixture for 10 mins. Then press it using machine. Buffalo (Mhains) milk (it has high proteins) is suitable for making paneer. But we can also make paneer from Cow Milk as well. To make 1 kg paneer, you need 5 to 6 litre milk. To make 1 kg paneer, cost is Rs. 250 and you can sell it for Rs 300 to 350.

2. Khoya or Khawa: Khawa is made by boiling, heating and stirring milk. Difference between Khawa and Barfi is that in Khawa we do not mix sugar.

3. Milk Barfi: Barfi is made by boiling and stirring milk with Sugar for long time upto 1 hour. There is a famous shop (with name Mauli Barfi or Mawali Barfi) at Shelewadi near Kolhapur. There is one more shop - Vithallai Barfi house in Kolhapur which is very famous. Barfi rate is Rs. 250 to Rs. 300 per kg. To make 1 kg barfi, you need litres of milk. Barfi lasts for upto 10 to 12 days. The milk is converted to Basundi, then Kunda and then Barfi.

4. Ghee/Butter: Ghee is clarified butter obtained by simmering butter until the milk solids separate and are removed. It is a staple in Indian cooking and is known for its rich aroma and flavor.

5. Yogurt (Curd/Dahi): Yogurt is a fermented dairy product made by adding live bacteria cultures to milk. It is a popular accompaniment to Indian meals and is used to prepare various dishes and desserts.

6. Buttermilk (Chaas): Buttermilk is the liquid left after churning butter from curd. It is a refreshing drink and is often spiced with cumin, salt, and other seasonings.

7. Ice Cream: Ice cream is a favorite dessert in India, available in various flavors and forms. It is made from milk, cream, sugar, and flavorings.

8. Milk Powder: Milk powder is produced by evaporating milk to remove the water content. It is used as a convenient alternative to liquid milk in various applications.

9. Flavored Milk: Flavored milk comes in different varieties like chocolate, strawberry, and butterscotch. It is a popular choice among children and adults as a ready-to-drink beverage.

10. Condensed Milk: Condensed milk is milk from which water has been removed, resulting in a thick and sweet product used in desserts and confectionery.

11. Cheese: Cheese is also made from milk.

Other sweets made from Milk:

1. Basundi:

2. Halwa:

India's dairy industry has shown remarkable growth, with dairy products becoming an integral part of the Indian diet. The government and various organizations support milk processing and dairy farming to boost the rural economy and ensure a steady supply of quality dairy products to consumers across the country.