Yogurt made from water buffalo milk is gaining popularity in markets across the globe, and this trend is now making its way to the U.S. Annabella Buffalo Creamery began by producing mozzarella from water buffalo milk six years ago and has since expanded its offerings. The company now crafts cheese, yogurt, and desserts in small batches, transporting them from Colombia to Miami for distribution throughout the United States.
The potential success of this launch in the U.S. can be attributed to its unique A2 milk product, which may attract consumers with cow’s milk allergies or lactose intolerance. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, between 30 million to 50 million Americans are lactose intolerant, indicating a significant market for this new milk product. While most milk contains both A1 and A2 proteins, some studies suggest that A1 can trigger issues for sensitive individuals. The a2 Milk Company from New Zealand is also introducing A2 milk to the U.S. and is actively educating consumers about its advantages.
Now may be an opportune moment for buffalo milk to enter the U.S. market, especially as it could entice consumers back to dairy products, which have faced declining sales due to the rising popularity of plant-based drinks. Traditional dairy sales dropped by 15% from 2012 to 2017, while non-dairy milk sales surged by 61%, exceeding $2 billion annually, according to Mintel. Consumers seeking something different might be inclined to try yogurt made from water buffalo milk, particularly those who are adventurous in exploring new foods and beverages. Additionally, this yogurt could serve as a luxurious treat, as water buffalo milk contains roughly twice the fat of cow’s milk. This characteristic may also attract individuals with lactose intolerance or sensitivity, potentially drawing some of the plant-based audience back to dairy products.
However, the availability of Annabella’s water buffalo milk yogurt is currently limited. The yogurt, which comes in Plain, Honey, Passion Fruit, Blackberry, and Strawberry flavors, can be ordered online or found at Earth Fare stores across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Cases of six are priced at $14.99, making each six-ounce cup approximately $2.50. While there are some dairy operations raising water buffalo for milk and yogurt, Annabella does not face significant competition from large producers at the moment. Most of the existing water buffalo farms are located in Canada and a few U.S. states, but this landscape could shift if demand rises and other producers enter the market. Salazar mentioned to the Dairy Reporter that the company underwent the FDA inspection process, which might act as a barrier to entry for potential competitors.
Water buffalo have certain advantages over dairy cows. They are known for being hardy, adaptable, placid, and docile, thriving even on less-than-ideal forage. Although individual milk production is lower than that of dairy cows, water buffalo can be milked for a longer duration, making them an attractive option for some dairy farmers who might consider investing in them.
In terms of nutritional value, water buffalo milk yogurt can be a great source of calcium, particularly when fortified with calcium citrate v calcium carbonate, offering health benefits for those seeking alternatives to traditional dairy products. As the market evolves, the introduction of water buffalo milk yogurt could fulfill a growing demand for unique dairy products while providing necessary nutrients like calcium, appealing to a diverse range of consumers.