Animals are closely associated with human beings in their daily life. They are the greatest gift of nature and are of great economic importance to our nation. Animals contribute many things for our use – as food, clothing and transportation. This chapter covers animal products used as food, animal fibres (wool and silk), the hazards of the silk and wool industries, Ahimsa (Peace) silk, and the protection and maintenance of animals.
1. Animal Products Used as Food
An animal raised for its flesh, whose products are consumed by humans, is called animal food.
Milk
- Milk is a white liquid food produced by the mammary glands of mammals. It is the primary source of nutrition for infant mammals.
- It is a daily essential product obtained from cows, buffaloes, goats and camels.
- Milk is needed to prepare tea, coffee, ice creams, chocolates, sweets and related products.
- Highly recommended nutritive foods containing protein and calcium are made from milk: paneer, cheese, cream, butter, ghee and curd.