Nutrition drive marks national Milk Day at vet varsity

The College of Dairy and Food Science Technology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, observed National Milk Day by organising a Nutrition Awareness Drive at PAU Smart School and releasing of a myth-busting video on milk.

Postgraduate students held an interactive session with Class V students at Government Senior Secondary Smart School, PAU, Ludhiana, highlighting milk’s nutritional richness. They explained that milk, a natural source of protein, calcium, minerals and vitamins, was far healthier than sugary soft drinks and energy beverages laden with caffeine and preservatives.

“Choosing milk means choosing health,” they stressed.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students produced a video to dispel common misconceptions such as “concentrated milk is better,” “packaged milk is less nutritious,” and “UHT milk contains preservatives.”

Released by Vice-Chancellor Dr JPS Gill in the presence of university officials, the video aimed to promote scientific awareness and counter misinformation. The activities were conducted under the guidance of Dr SK Uppal, Dean, College of Dairy and Food Science Technology.

Around 250 schoolchildren participated enthusiastically in the programme, which featured posters, demonstrations and discussions.

Nearly 20 postgraduate students contributed by preparing flavoured milk at the Experimental Dairy Processing Plant, managing activities and delivering awareness talks. Dr Verghese Kurien, the ‘Milkman of India’ and architect of the White Revolution was also remembered during the event. Students reflected on his vision “True development is the development of people”. The programme concluded with the distribution of hot chocolate-flavoured milk.

Myths about milk

Several misconceptions remain in society regarding milk. Common myths include the belief that concentrated milk is healthier, that packaged milk loses its nutritional value and ultra-high-temperature (UHT) processed milk contains preservatives. Experts clarify that these notions are unfounded. Packaged and UHT milk retain their nutritional integrity and no preservatives are added during processing. Such myths often mislead consumers and discourage them from making informed dietary choices.

Nutritional value

Milk is widely regarded as a complete food due to its rich nutritional profile. It provides high-quality protein essential for growth and repair, calcium for strong bones and teeth and vital minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. Vitamins such as A, D, and B12 further enhance its role in supporting immunity, vision, and energy metabolism. Compared to sugary soft drinks and caffeinated beverages, milk offers natural nourishment without harmful additives.