SHIVAMOGGA: The rise in temperature in the district has turned out to be unbearable for people. But it has become a boon for Shimul (Shivamogga Co-operative Milk Union Limited) that functions in three districts-Shivamogga, Chitradurga and Davangere.
Following the rise in the mercury level, people are gulping down various beverages to quench their thirst. Among them, the butter milk of Nandini is pretty popular. It is selling in huge quantities in the district helping Shimul generate huge profits. Earlier, it was available only in Nandini outlets and selected grocery stores and bakery shops. Now, it is available in many shops across the district following the sudden rise in public demand.
According to officials of Shimul, the demand for butter milk has doubled per day since March and is likely to continue till May. At present, 44,000 butter milk packets (500ml) are being supplied to vendors against 22,000 per day in three districts. Of them, around 30,000 butter milk packets are being sold in Shivamogga district. Around 10,000 packets are being sold in Davangere and the remaining in Chitradurga.
A 500 ml butter milk packet is being sold at only '-5. So, the demand is more as it is cheap, tasty and good for health. Though the demand is more, Shimul is not ready to enhance production fearing that vendors may not maintain the quality.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Shimul Managing Director K.Swamy said generally, the demand for butter milk rises during summer. But this year, it has doubled as Malnad region is witnessing 40 to 42 degree Celsius temperature.
“But we have decided not to enhance production as there is a possibility that the vendors may not maintain quality. It is an open secret that all vendors do not have refrigerators. Butter milk quality will decline if the packets are not stored in them. We had received complaints from people that they were given substandard butter milk. Such incidents would tarnish the brand name of Nandini. So, there is no plan to enhance production.”
According to Dr K. Gangadhar, buttermilk has acid in it which fights germs and bacteria. Besides, it helps clear the stomach and aid in digestion. It is a rich source of Vitamin B12 and is believed to help fight anaemia and stress.
