“Dairy” is a broad term that includes several products. There exists a lot of doubts about the actual difference between these products. One such confusing pair is curd and yoghurt. Most people in India think that Yoghurt is just the western name for curd. Here is some information that will make you understand the difference between these two products.
1. It all starts with the preparation
The first basic difference between curd and yoghurt lies in the method of their preparation. In almost every Indian household, the curd is prepared by curdling milk with natural acidic substances like lemon juice. On the other hand, yoghurt is fermented with artificial acids and it usually cannot be prepared in your kitchen.
You can make curd at home by curdling milk with either lime or vinegar
Yoghurt is simply a fermented product
2. Amount of good bacteria
Both curd and yoghurt contain bacteria, which The amount of bacteria in yoghurt is significantly higher when compared to curd. Also, in curd, the bacterial population is a mixed bag. Whereas, while preparing yoghurt, specific types (or strains in scientific terms) of bacteria are used.
Curd contains several types of Lactic acid bacteria
Yoghurt is a commercial fermentation product of milk by using specific bacteria
3. A boon to lactose-intolerant people
There are people around the world who are lactose intolerant. In simple terms, these people are allergic to milk products containing lactose. Curd contains lower amounts of lactose when compared to fresh milk. However, it is not highly recommended. Yoghurt is highly preferred for lactose-intolerant individuals, especially Greek-styled yoghurt.
Greek yoghurt is generally thick and is prepared after straining out whey
This is highly recommended as a nutritional source
4. Pick it up from a wide range of flavours
Normally desi Dahi or curd is consumed without any flavours. It is white with a strongly acidic or sour taste. It is usually consumed as a part of Indian cuisine along with rice.It is also used in the preparation of several Indian dishes right from Hyderabadi Biriyani to Punjabi lassi.
On the other hand, yoghurt is available in a lot of fruity flavours. You could have strawberry, mango or even chocolate flavoured yoghurt (This is why kids love yoghurt).
Dahi or curd is used in the preparation of dishes
Yoghurt (Both flavoured and unflavoured ones) are available in ready-to-consume packs.
5. Curd Vs Yoghurt - Which is more beneficial?
Both curd and yoghurt have nutritional benefits. Curd, in general, cools down your body. It neutralizes the effect of spices, which is usually very high in Indian cuisine. On the other hand, Yoghurt is a rich source of protein. There are a few types of yoghurt that contain twice the amount of protein as curd. Both curd and yoghurt are rich in vitamins and minerals that are vital for the body. These substances aid in the prevention of diseases like arthritis and osteoporosis in elder people.
Curd contains high amounts of calcium and phosphorous that strengthens your bones and teeth
Yoghurt is filled with the goodness of proteins.
All dairy products are good for health and curd and yoghurt are no exceptions on that list. The side-effects or harm by dairy products, in general, is very low. Dairy products aid in achieving the daily protein requirements. Learn more about the health benefits of dairy products from our Milky Mist website.
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