Curds hold a special place in the hearts and meals of many, especially in India. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing snack or alongside regular meals, curds are a versatile and wholesome accompaniment cherished in Indian culinary traditions. This creamy and tangy dairy delight is loved not only for its taste but also for its numerous health benefits. Rich in probiotics, curds support digestive health and boost immunity, packed with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins, making them a nourishing addition to any diet.
While some prefer preparing their curd at home using a jaman or starter, others opt for packaged curds readily available in the market. The question arises: which is healthier?
Packaged curd, found in grocery stores, undergoes pasteurization to enhance its shelf life and eliminate harmful bacteria. While pasteurization makes the curd safer, it also affects the probiotic content, diminishing the number of beneficial bacteria, including probiotics, in the final product. As a result, the probiotic content in packaged curd may be lower compared to homemade curd. Therefore, if your goal is to consume active probiotics, homemade curd is the better choice.
Homemade curds grant you more control over the fermentation process, allowing you to utilize fresh, live cultures or starters. This enables you to ensure a higher concentration of active probiotic bacteria in the curd, delivering the benefits associated with probiotics, such as promoting gut health and digestion.
However, this doesn’t mean you should completely dismiss packaged curd, as it can still be a valuable component of a balanced diet. It serves as a good source of protein and calcium, providing some nutritional benefits despite the lower probiotic content due to pasteurization. If convenience or availability is a priority, packaged curd remains a convenient option.
In conclusion, the choice between packaged curd and homemade curd depends on your priorities and desired probiotic intake. If active probiotics are specifically sought after, homemade curd is the ideal option. However, if convenience takes precedence, packaged curd can still offer nutritional value, even though the probiotic content may be lower. Always check the ingredient list when selecting packaged curd and opt for brands that prioritize minimal processing and natural ingredients.
The nutritionist further emphasizes that curd is a natural probiotic, containing the daily requirement of calcium, phosphorus, and other trace minerals. According to her, home-based curd is healthier than packaged curd as it does not contain any preservatives or flavorings. Homemade curd, with its lactic acid content known as lactobacillus, promotes good bacteria in the gut, improves digestion, and aids in healing stomach issues. The live bacteria found in curd also contribute to boosting immunity, and the more fermentation in homemade curd, the greater the probiotics achieved.
Also Read
Opt for Tofu Over Paneer: Discover 5 Health Benefits of Including Tofu in Your Daily Protein Intake
One thought on “Choosing Between Packaged Curd and Homemade Curd: Which is the Better Option?”