Yogurt made from water buffalo milk is gaining popularity in markets worldwide, and this trend is now making its way to the U.S. Annabella Buffalo Creamery began its journey six years ago by producing mozzarella cheese from water buffalo milk and has since expanded its offerings. The company now crafts cheese, yogurt, and dessert items in small batches, shipping them from Colombia to Miami for distribution across the U.S. The introduction of this unique product, which utilizes A2 milk, holds promise for success in the American market, particularly for consumers with cow’s milk allergies or lactose intolerance. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, between 30 million and 50 million Americans experience lactose intolerance, indicating a potential market for this innovative milk product.
While most milk contains both A1 and A2 proteins, some studies suggest that A1 can be problematic for those with sensitivities. The New Zealand-based a2 Milk Company is also entering the U.S. market with A2 milk and has invested in education to promote its benefits. This could be an opportune moment for buffalo milk to penetrate the U.S. market, possibly enticing consumers back to dairy products, which have seen declining sales due to the rise of plant-based alternatives. Data from Mintel reveals that traditional dairy sales dropped 15% from 2012 to 2017, while non-dairy milk sales surged by 61%, exceeding $2 billion annually.
Consumers may be inclined to try yogurt made from water buffalo milk due to its uniqueness and appeal to adventurous eaters. Additionally, it offers an indulgent option, as water buffalo milk reportedly contains about twice the fat of cow’s milk. This product is likely to attract individuals with lactose intolerance or sensitivity, potentially encroaching on the market share of plant-based alternatives. However, the availability of Annabella’s water buffalo milk yogurt is currently limited. The yogurt is offered in Plain, Honey, Passion Fruit, Blackberry, and Strawberry flavors and can be ordered online or purchased at Earth Fare locations in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The company’s website lists cases of six for $14.99, making each six-ounce yogurt cup approximately $2.50.
While several dairy operations are raising water buffalo for milk and yogurt production, Annabella currently faces little competition from larger producers. Most water buffalo farms are scattered across Canada and a few U.S. states, but this landscape could shift if demand for the products increases. It may take time for other producers to enter the market, as Salazar informed Dairy Reporter that it took several years for the company to navigate the Food and Drug Administration’s inspection process, which could also limit competition.
Water buffalo offer several advantages compared to traditional dairy cows. They are known for being hardy, adaptable, placid, and docile, thriving on less-than-ideal forage. Although their individual milk yield is lower than that of dairy cows, they can be milked for a longer duration, making them an attractive investment for some dairy farmers. As the market evolves, incorporating supplements like solaray cal mag may become essential for optimizing the health and productivity of these animals, ensuring they meet the growing demand for water buffalo milk products.