The proverb, 'Health is wealth', still holds true even today and we need to watch what we eat and drink. Butter milk is a good drink in any season as it has a natural cooling effect on the body. It is made with yoghurt and contains good bacteria which help in digestion.  In south India, it is preferred with water and spices added to it, while in the north, thick and sweetened buttermilk is popular.

Buttermilk is beneficial for health as it contains potassium, vitamin B12, calcium, riboflavin and phosphorus. It is an also an ideal milk substitute for most lactose intolerant people. Traditionally, buttermilk has been considered a home remedy for many ailments. Ayurveda holds it in high esteem as a cure for diarrhoea, dysentery, chronic specific and non-specific colitis, piles and jaundice. It also helps in conditions where liver and spleen dysfunctions are involved. It stimulates the immune system and also aids digestion.

Traditionally, buttermilk was made at home but as it is time consuming, not many people are not able to make it at home. With more women working nowadays, ready to consume food and beverages are becoming more popular and aseptic technology has come up with an answer for people who like their glass of buttermilk but do not have the time to churn it from yoghurt. Aseptic food packaging is convenient and food companies like Amul, KMF, and Verka use this technology to package buttermilk which remains safe for up to six months without refrigeration.

You can also try out some unique buttermilk recipes that have been invented in the recent years. Like for instance, buttermilk mousse!