Aavin Reduces Sugar in Lassi as Arokya Increases Milk Prices

The dairy industry in Tamil Nadu is witnessing a significant transformation with two major developments. Aavin, a state-run dairy cooperative, has announced plans to reduce the sugar content in its plain lassi from 17 percent to 10 percent. This change is expected to be implemented by the end of the month, following extensive market research and consumer feedback.

Aavin's decision to cut down on sugar aligns with the Bureau of Indian Standards' regulation, which sets a maximum of 12 percent sugar for retail lassi. The cooperative had previously set its sugar content at 17 percent, the highest in the region, compared to competitors like Amul, Cavin's, Mother Dairy, Britannia, and Milky Mist, which range between 10 and 14 percent.

To ensure consumer acceptance, Aavin conducted sensory evaluations using test batches with sugar levels of 10, 12, and 14 percent. The 10 percent variant received the highest acceptance scores. Aavin's R&D division will apply this sugar reduction across its product lines to meet evolving consumer preferences.

In a separate development, leading private dairy company Arokya has announced a price increase of Rs 3 per litre for its milk and curd products. This change, effective from Thursday, follows a previous price adjustment in February. The prices for one-litre packs are now Rs 57 for toned milk, Rs 69 for standardized milk, Rs 76 for full cream milk, and Rs 81 for a premium curd pouch.

The dairy sector's developments reflect both a push towards healthier product formulations and adjustments to pricing strategies within the competitive market of Tamil Nadu.