Economic insights into A2 milk: Production costs and consumption trends in southern Karnataka

The study, titled "Economic Insights into A2 Milk: Production Costs and Consumption Trends in Southern Karnataka," aims to provide a comprehensive economic analysis of A2 milk production and consumer behaviour.Data were collected from 40 farmers rearing Hallikar, Gir, and Sahiwal cattle breeds in Bengaluru South district, focusing on the cost of production, revenue generation, and profitability.The total production cost was divided into variable and fixed costs, with variable costs constituting 88.30% (22,149), mainly driven by feed expenses.Fixed costs accounted for 11.70% (2,936), including depreciation and interest rates.Gross returns from maintaining desi cow breeds were 41,477, with milk sales contributing 90.74% (38,240) of the total returns, manure sales 6.85% (2,396), and calf sales 2.41% (841).The net return per cow was 16,392, indicating an economic viability with a return of 1.65 per rupee invested.Consumer behaviour was analysed through a survey, revealing a significant knowledge gap regarding the nutritional benefits of A2 milk.While 82.50% of respondents were aware of A2 milk as a good source of lactose, awareness of other health benefits was lower, with only 25% aware that A2 milk is free of hormones and antibiotics.Purchasing behaviour indicated a strong preference for cow's milk (90.80%) and planned purchasing (91.66%).Brand preference highlighted Akshayakalpa as the most popular, followed by Mother Dairy.The majority of respondents (62.50%) purchased A2 milk in the morning, with home delivery being the preferred mode (60%).Sensory attributes such as taste, aroma, and appearance were highly accepted among consumers, contributing to the overall acceptance of A2 milk.These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and dairy farmers aiming to maximize economic returns and enhance consumer awareness of A2 milk's health benefits in Southern Karnataka.