What is Dairy?
Dairy is a broad term that refers to all products that come from milk. This includes milk itself, as well as cheese, yogurt, butter, and ice cream. Dairy products are a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients.
- History of Dairy
- Types of Dairy Products
- Health Benefits of Dairy
- Risks of Dairy
- How to Choose Dairy Products
- History of Dairy
Dairy products have been consumed by humans for thousands of years. The earliest evidence of dairying dates back to around 8,000 BC in the Middle East. It is believed that early humans began to domesticate animals such as cows, goats, and sheep for their milk.
Dairy products quickly became an important part of the human diet. They were a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Dairy products were also used in religious ceremonies and rituals.
Types of Dairy Products
There are many different types of dairy products. Some of the most common types include:
- Milk: Milk is a nutrient-rich liquid that comes from mammals. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients.
- Cheese: Cheese is a dairy product made from milk. It is produced by adding bacteria to milk and then allowing it to ferment. Cheese comes in a variety of flavors and textures.
- Yogurt: Yogurt is a dairy product made from fermented milk. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics.
- Butter: Butter is a dairy product made from milk fat. It is a good source of saturated fat and calories.
- Ice cream: Ice cream is a dairy product made from milk, cream, and sugar. It is a good source of calories and fat.
Health Benefits of Dairy
Dairy products are a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. Other nutrients found in dairy products include vitamin D, phosphorus, and potassium.
Studies have shown that dairy products can help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and some types of cancer. Dairy products can also help to improve bone health and muscle strength.
Risks of Dairy
Some people are lactose intolerant, which means that they cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance can cause symptoms such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Dairy products can also be high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Saturated fat and cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.
How to Choose Dairy Products
When choosing dairy products, it is important to look for products that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol. It is also important to choose products that are fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Some good choices for dairy products include:
- Low-fat or fat-free milk
- Low-fat or fat-free cheese
- Yogurt with live and active cultures
- Low-fat or fat-free ice cream
frequently asked questions
Q: Which farm animals are known for producing the milk we drink?
A: Cows are the most common, but goats, sheep, and even buffalo can provide milk too.
Q: Do all animals raised on a farm produce milk?
A: No, only mammals produce milk to feed their young.
From Farm to Table
Q: How does milk get from the farm to my refrigerator?
A: It’s collected, processed to ensure safety, and transported in special refrigerated trucks.
Q: Why are there different kinds of milk at the grocery store (whole, skim, etc.)?
A: Processing can change the amount of fat in the milk.
Beyond Just Milk
Q: Are cheese and yogurt made from milk?
A: Yes! They are created by processing milk in different ways.
Q: Can you get anything besides food products from milk-producing animals?
A: Sometimes! Their manure (poop) is a valuable fertilizer for crops.
MCQS
- Which of these animals is the primary source of milk for most people?
- A. Chicken
- B. Goat
- CC. Cow
- D. Pig
Answer: C
- Only female mammals produce milk. This means to get milk, a farmer needs:
- A. Animals of a specific breed
- B. Animals that have given birth
- C. Animals given special feed
- D. Animals that live outdoors
Answer: B
Milk Products
- Which of these foods is made from milk?
- A. Bread
- B. Cheese
- C. Eggs
- D. Apples
Answer: B
- To make butter, milk undergoes a process called:
- A. Pasteurization
- B. Milking
- C. Churning
- D. Grazing
Answer: C
Beyond Drinking
- Milk-producing animals can help fertilize crops because farmers use their:
- A. Hide
- B. Hooves
- C. Manure
- D. Milk
Answer: C
- A food labeled ‘lactose-free’ would be a good choice for someone who:
- A. Is allergic to milk ingredients
- B. Wants a high-calcium food
- C. Needs a high-protein snack
- D. Is looking for a whole grain
Answer: A