Rasvatooteid

Rasvatooteid, known more commonly as dairy products, are foods produced from the milk of mammals, primarily cows, but also goats, sheep, and buffalo. These products form a significant part of diets worldwide, valued for their nutritional content and culinary versatility. Key nutrients found in dairy include calcium, protein, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.

The most common dairy products include milk itself, which can be consumed fresh, pasteurized, or homogenized. From milk, a wide array of other products are derived through processes like fermentation and churning. Cheese is made by coagulating milk protein, resulting in a vast spectrum of textures and flavors depending on the type of milk, aging process, and additives used. Yogurt is produced by bacterial fermentation of milk, giving it a tangy taste and probiotic benefits. Butter is made by churning milk or cream, separating the butterfat from the buttermilk. Cream, which is the high-fat layer skimmed from the top of milk, is used in cooking and as a topping. Other products include sour cream, kefir, and various forms of processed milk like condensed milk and powdered milk.

Dairy products are a source of energy and essential nutrients, contributing to bone health and overall well-being. However, some individuals may experience lactose intolerance, difficulty digesting the natural sugar in milk, or allergies to milk proteins, leading them to seek out lactose-free or dairy-free alternatives. The production and consumption of dairy products are integral to many agricultural economies and food traditions globally.