For thousands of years, humans have been consuming milk and milk-based products. In fact, scientists have ample evidence to suggest that humans began drinking raw milk from animals at least 10,000 years ago, when wild sheep, goats, and Aurochs (Wild Cattle) were first domesticated as a source of food and clothing. And while there is no definitive understanding of how and why primitive people began milking their domesticated animals, the prevailing explanation is to allow them to survive and even thrive in conditions where doing so would have been difficult, if not impossible. In short, dairy equaled health. Dairy equaled life. Today, while almost universally enjoyed for the flavor and texture they impart to the foods we consume every day, dairy products remain an important part of a healthy, contemporary diet. Indeed, some of the most popular dairy products consumed around the world are Milk, Yogurt, Cheese, Butter, and Ice Cream. And each of these products offer different nutritional and health benefits.
