Curd vs Milk: Understanding the Differences

Milk and curd are both dairy products originating from the same source - milk. However, they differ significantly in their composition, properties, and the benefits they offer to our health. This article will delve into the intricacies of these two dairy products to help you understand the differences.

What is Curd?

Curd, also known as dahi, is a semi-solid and sour-tasting dairy product made by fermenting milk with beneficial bacteria. These bacteria convert lactose, which is the milk sugar, into lactic acid. This process takes place in conditions that are favorable for bacterial growth, typically around 40 degrees Celsius.

The fermentation causes the milk's pH to decrease, making it more acidic and giving it a tangy flavor. Curd is a rich source of probiotics, which are beneficial for digestive health, and is often consumed for its various health benefits.

The Process of Making Curd

Curd is made by curdling milk with edible acidic substances such as leftover curd, lemon juice, or vinegar. The process involves adding beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, which ferment lactose, the milk sugar, into lactic acid. This fermentation process causes milk to thicken and coagulate, resulting in the formation of curd solids and whey, a liquid.

Main Differences Between Milk and Curd

Milk

Milk is a liquid produced by mammals, primarily as a source of nutrition for infants. It contains a variety of constituents, including water, proteins such as casein and whey, fats, carbohydrates (mostly lactose), and vitamins. Milk is a versatile ingredient that can be processed into various dairy products.

Curd or Yogurt

Curd, a fermented dairy product, undergoes a transformation through the addition of beneficial bacteria. These bacteria, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, ferment lactose into lactic acid, causing the milk to thicken and coagulate. Curd is a solid form of milk due to the precipitation of casein, and it contains a copious amount of probiotics that are beneficial for health.

Compositional Differences

The key difference between milk and curd lies in their composition and properties. Milk is a liquid, while curd is a semi-solid product.

When the milk sugar in milk is stable, it maintains a pH of around 6.7. However, in the case of curd, the pH drops to around 4.5 due to the fermentation process. This drop in pH causes casein to precipitate, transforming the liquid milk into a solid form. Hence, the final product is curd.

Health Benefits of Curd

Due to its probiotic content, curd offers numerous health benefits. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that improve digestive health, boost the immune system, and maintain a healthy pH balance in the gut. Curd is also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for bone health, and it contains beneficial vitamins like B12.

Conclusion

Milk and curd, although derived from the same source, differ significantly in their composition, properties, and health benefits. Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices about which dairy product to consume based on your nutritional needs and health goals.

Keywords: curd, milk, probiotics