Unravelling the Dynamics of Dairy Product Consumption Amidst COVID-19: A Study in West Bengal

The notable shifts in dairy consumption patterns emerged as a result of the pandemic-induced restrictions and evolving consumer behaviours. These shifts were marked by observable trends in Per Capita Consumption (PCC) and Per Capita Expenditure (PCE), including a decline in unpackaged milk (PCC: 5 to 27 per cent, PCE: 2 to 33 per cent) consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic periods and a concurrent surge in the consumption of toned milk (PCC: 4 to 7 per cent, PCE: 2 to 15 per cent) and ghee (PCC: 44 to 59 per cent, PCE: 28 to 68 per cent). The research findings also highlighted that high-income consumers demonstrated greater stability in maintaining consistent milk and milk product consumption during both the lockdown and post-lockdown phases compared to their low-income counterparts. The findings shed light on the resilient adaptability of particular consumer segments and emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies to address evolving consumption patterns and promote food security in the face of global crises.