Milk is a rich source of protein, and one of its key components is beta-casein. This protein exists in two genetic variants: A1 and A2. The difference lies in a single amino acid, but its effects may be significant.

• Foreign breeds such as Holstein-Friesians typically produce A1 beta-casein or a combination of A1 and A2.
  
• Indigenous Indian breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar produce only A2 beta-casein.

This distinction has prompted a growing belief that A2 milk is easier to digest, particularly for individuals who experience gastrointestinal discomfort from regular milk. While scientific evidence continues to evolve, many consumers report fewer symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and gas when consuming A2 milk.

Cultural Heritage and the Return to Indigenous Breeds

India’s relationship with cattle extends beyond agriculture. Native cows have long held cultural, religious, and medicinal significance. However, the advent of the White Revolution in the 1970s shifted the focus toward high-yield breeds. These breeds increased production volumes but compromised genetic diversity and nutritional authenticity.

Today, there is a noticeable shift in consumer mindset—a return to desi breeds. This is not simply a nostalgia-driven trend. It is a response to modern dietary sensitivities and a re-evaluation of ancestral practices. Urban families, wellness practitioners, and Ayurvedic physicians alike are advocating for the inclusion of native cow milk in daily diets.

For an in-depth exploration of indigenous breeds and their contribution to A2 milk, refer to Haribol’s guide.

Economic Potential for Dairy Farmers

The shift toward A2 milk is not only a health movement; it represents a major business opportunity. Traditional milk sells for approximately ₹45–₹50 per litre. In contrast, A2 milk often commands prices ranging from ₹90 to ₹150 per litre in urban markets.

This price premium is not arbitrary. It reflects:

• The higher cost of maintaining indigenous breeds
• The relatively lower milk yield per animal
• Consumer demand for traceable, chemical-free dairy

For small and mid-sized farmers, this model offers a value-over-volume strategy. Rather than increasing herd size, farmers can focus on brand trust, breed quality, and direct-to-home delivery models. This has already been demonstrated by a growing number of A2 milk startups that emphasize transparency, animal welfare, and local sourcing.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite its advantages, the A2 milk segment faces several hurdles. The lack of formal certification standards, limited consumer education, and higher production costs remain persistent challenges. However, rising urban demand, coupled with growing health consciousness, is steadily creating a viable ecosystem.

Government agencies and cooperative societies are beginning to support efforts to revive and propagate indigenous breeds. If these efforts are sustained, A2 milk could become more accessible—not just a premium niche product, but a cornerstone of everyday Indian nutrition.

How Shunya makes the life easy for cattle owners:
As A2 milk gains popularity, it’s clear that breed quality alone isn’t enough—nutrition plays a key role. This is where Nutri Ankurit Feed (NAF) from Shunya can make a difference.

NAF is a hydroponic green feed grown in clean, controlled environments without chemicals or soil. It delivers consistent, high-quality nutrition year-round—something traditional feeds struggle to offer. When crossbreeds are fed hydroponic green feed, their milk shows up to 9.4% fat and 6% SNF according to this paper.  significantly enhancing creaminess, digestibility, and overall quality. 

Beyond milk improvement, hydroponic green feed supports cow health, digestion, and immunity—reducing reliance on supplements and vet costs. For A2 milk producers, it’s not just a feed—it’s a strategic advantage in delivering premium, traceable, nutrient-rich milk.

Conclusion

The integration of Nutri Ankurit Feed into the diets of indigenous cows represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. As India embraces its dairy heritage through A2 milk phenomenon, adopting advanced feeding solutions like NAF ensures that this journey is both sustainable and profitable. By combining ancestral wisdom with modern technology, the Indian dairy industry is poised to set new standards in quality and sustainability.