Dairy refers to products made from the milk of lactating mammals, most commonly cows but also goats, sheep, buffalo, and others. It includes milk itself as well as various milk-based food products such as cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream. Dairy can also mean the place where milk is stored and processed into these products, like a dairy farm or dairy factory. Dairy foods are rich in essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins, and are important in many diets worldwide.
Key Points about Dairy:
- Dairy products include milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream.
- Milk is the base ingredient and is nearly 90% water, containing important proteins and fats.
- Dairy comes from several animals, but cow’s milk is the most common globally.
- The term dairy can also refer to a farm or facility that produces or processes milk and dairy products.
- Dairy foods are nutrient-rich, especially providing calcium, which supports bone health.
This captures the general meaning and usage of the term "dairy."
