Curd is a storehouse of several essential nutrients (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
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Packaged vs homemade curd: Which one should you pick?
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Curds hold a special place in the hearts and meals of many people, especially in India. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing snack or eaten alongside regular meals, curds are a versatile and wholesome accompaniment that holds a cherished spot in Indian culinary traditions. This creamy and tangy dairy delight is not only loved for its taste but also consumed for its numerous health benefits. Rich in probiotics, curds support digestive health and boost immunity. They are packed with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins, making them a nourishing addition to any diet.
While many prepare their curd at home using jaman or starter, others rely on packaged curds which are easily available in the market. But, which one is healthier? Addressing the same, Bhakti Kapoor, a nutritionist, took to Instagram to share that when deciding between packaged curd and homemade curd, it’s crucial to consider the probiotic content.
“Packed curd, found in grocery stores, undergoes pasteurisation to enhance its shelf life and eliminate harmful bacteria. While pasteurisation makes the curd safer, it also affects the probiotic content,” the expert said, adding that the process can diminish the number of beneficial bacteria, including probiotics, in the final product.
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As a result, the probiotic content in packaged curd may be lower compared to homemade curd. “Therefore, if your aim is to consume active probiotics, homemade curd is the better choice,” she said.
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As for homemade curds, she noted that they grant you more control over the fermentation process, allowing you to utilise fresh, live cultures or starters. “This enables you to ensure a higher concentration of active probiotic bacteria in the curd. As a result, homemade curd is more likely to deliver the benefits associated with probiotics, such as promoting gut health and digestion,” she said.
However, this doesn’t mean that you should completely let go of packaged curd as it can still be a valuable component of a balanced diet. “It serves as a good source of protein and calcium. While the probiotic content may be lower due to pasteurization, it still provides some nutritional benefits. If convenience or availability is a priority for you, packed curd can be a convenient option,” Kapoor said.
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Concluding, the nutritionist said that 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, packed curd can still offer nutritional value, even though the probiotic content may be lower. Be sure to check the ingredient list when selecting packed curd and opt for brands that prioritise minimal processing and natural ingredients,” she said.
Talking about the same, Vani Krishna, Chief Clinical Nutritionist, Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road, Bangalore said that curd is a natural probiotic and it contains the daily requirement of calcium and phosphorus and also other trace minerals. “Home-based curd is healthier than packed curd as it does not contain any preservatives and flavour,” she said.
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Krishna added that homemade curd contains lactic acid which is known as lactobacillus which promotes good bacteria in the gut and helps to improve digestion and heals any kind of stomach issues. “The live bacteria found in curd improve immunity. More the fermentation in homemade curd, the more probiotics can be achieved,” she said.
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