New research from Australia suggests that when it comes to milk, camels might just outshine cows. Edith Cowan University researchers have discovered that camel milk offers some impressive health benefits, particularly for your gut.
Camel milk is packed with naturally occurring bioactive peptides—more than cow’s milk. These peptides are known for their antimicrobial and anti-hypertensive properties, which could mean better digestion, a healthier gut, and even a lower risk of heart disease. Plus, camel milk is hypoallergenic, making it a great option for people who struggle with allergies to cow’s milk.
PhD student Manujaya Jayamanna Mohittige explained the benefits: “These bioactive peptides can selectively inhibit harmful pathogens, creating a healthy gut environment. They might even reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in the future.” However, more research is needed to fully understand how potent these peptides are.
Camel milk also has less lactose than cow’s milk, making it easier to digest for some people. While the nutritional breakdown varies slightly, camel milk is similar in water content to cow’s milk but has a different balance of protein, fat, and lactose.
Right now, cows dominate the dairy world, producing 81% of the milk consumed globally. Camels, on the other hand, account for just 0.4%. But Australia’s semi-arid climate and its population of wild camels could make it an ideal location to expand camel milk production.
“Camels are perfect for arid or semi-arid areas where traditional cattle farming can struggle,” Mohittige said.
Some camel dairies already exist in Australia, but production is limited. A dairy cow can produce up to 28 liters of milk a day, while a camel yields only about five. This limited supply is reflected in the price: camel milk costs around $18 per liter, compared to just $3 for a two-liter bottle of cow’s milk from Coles or Woolworths.
Despite the higher cost and lower availability, camel milk is gaining attention worldwide for its unique benefits and sustainability in challenging environments. It might not be mainstream yet, but camel milk could have a bright future in Australia’s dairy scene!
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