Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Why is camel milk more expensive than other milks?

Camel milk tends to be more expensive than cow's milk for several reasons, each contributing to its higher price point. Here are the key factors:

  1. Lower Production Volume: Camels produce significantly less milk than cows. A dairy cow can produce about 6 to 7 times more milk per day than a camel. This lower yield naturally leads to higher prices due to the basic principle of supply and demand.
  2. Rearing Costs and Conditions: Camels are typically raised in more arid and semi-arid regions, which can necessitate specific and sometimes costly conditions for optimal health and milk production. Their diet, care, and the need for large roaming areas can increase the cost of maintaining a camel dairy farm compared to traditional cow dairy farms.
  3. Manual Milking Processes: Camels can be more sensitive to their milking environment and handler, often requiring more manual and labor-intensive milking processes. This can increase labor costs and reduce efficiency compared to the highly automated processes used in cow milk production.
  4. Nutritional Benefits and Medicinal Properties: Camel milk is often marketed for its unique nutritional benefits, including a lower fat content, higher levels of minerals like potassium and magnesium, and certain medicinal properties such as insulin-like proteins, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes. These health benefits can drive up the price due to increased demand among health-conscious consumers.
  5. Transportation and Distribution: Since camel dairy farming is less common and more geographically concentrated than cow dairy farming, the costs associated with transporting and distributing camel milk to various markets can be higher. This is especially true for regions where camel milk is considered an exotic product.

What does camel milk taste like?

Camel milk has a distinct taste that can be quite different from the more familiar cow's milk. Here are some of the characteristics commonly attributed to camel milk:

  1. Slightly Salty: Many people note that camel milk has a slightly salty flavor compared to cow's milk. This is one of its most distinguishing taste characteristics.
  2. Sweeter Undertones: Despite the salty flavor, camel milk also has subtle sweet undertones, which can vary depending on the camel's diet and the milk's freshness.
  3. Lighter and Smoother: The texture of camel milk is often described as being lighter and smoother than cow's milk. It doesn't have the same creaminess or thickness that cow's milk can have, due in part to its lower fat content.
  4. Nutty Flavor: Some people detect a slight nutty or even a mildly earthy flavor in camel milk, which adds to its unique taste profile.
  5. Less Intense: Overall, the flavor of camel milk is generally considered to be less intense than cow's milk. This subtlety makes it versatile for use in a variety of culinary applications, from drinking it plain to incorporating it into smoothies, coffee, and tea.

Should I buy camel milk or camel powder?

Choosing between camel milk powder and liquid camel milk ultimately boils down to individual taste and needs! Both forms boast impressive nutritional profiles, making them excellent choices for health-conscious individuals. The powder version is particularly appealing due to its extended shelf life, offering great versatility as it can be effortlessly incorporated into smoothies, protein shakes, coffee, and even baked goods like muffins and mac n' cheese. However, for those who value the authentic, creamy flavor of milk, nothing quite matches the experience of sipping on fresh liquid camel milk. Adding to this, liquid camel milk can serve as a delightful base for homemade ice cream or a rich addition to your morning cereal, providing a unique twist to your culinary creations. Whether you lean towards the convenience and versatility of the powder or the unparalleled freshness of liquid milk, both options are a testament to the incredible benefits camel milk has to offer.

Do you sell raw camel milk?

Unfortunately no. The current law does not allow farms to ship raw milk across state lines. We pasteurize our milk at 150 degrees for 15 seconds and then cooled. It preserves the original nutrients and taste while removing the harmful microbes.

What is the shelf life of camel milk?

When frozen, it remains good for up to 6 months. Stored in the refrigerator, its freshness extends for approximately 3 to 4 weeks. However, if it's frozen again after being thawed, its shelf life reduces to only 5-7 days upon the second thawing.

Why are there separate layers formed when the milk has been sitting for a while?

That is a sign of natural milk!

In natural milk, fat molecules tend to cluster together, creating a cream layer at the top of the milk container. A simple shake before drinking is all it takes to mix it back in. This separation might look off-putting to some, resembling curdled milk, but rest assured, it's entirely different. Our commitment to purity means we avoid excessive processing, so our milk remains non-homogenized. Homogenization is what normally mixes the milk and fat evenly. So, remember to give the milk a good shake next time you enjoy it.

Can kids drink camel milk?

Yes, kids can drink camel milk. It's known for being rich in nutrients and can be a healthy addition to a child's diet, provided there are no allergies to camel milk. Always introduce new foods, including camel milk, to a child's diet gradually and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.

Is your camel milk organic?

All of our farm practices and pastures are 100% organic, but the milk itself has not yet been officially certified organic.

Where is your production facility?

We work with family farms across Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Colorado & Missouri.

Can I sell your milk in my retail store?

Absolutely. We have dozens of retail stores across the country that we supply to. If you are interested then please contact us at info@camelhaven.com

I am lactose intolerant. Can I drink camel milk?

Yes, many people who are lactose intolerant can drink camel milk. Camel milk contains less lactose than cow's milk, making it easier for individuals with lactose intolerance to digest. Additionally, it has been reported that camel milk contains a different composition of proteins and enzymes, which may help in the digestion of lactose. However, responses can vary among individuals, so it's advisable for those with lactose intolerance to try it in small amounts initially and observe how their body reacts. Consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice is also recommended.

How much camel milk can I drink everyday?

For adults, with no pre-existing conditions, we would recommend starting with 6-8 ounces per day.

For children, we would recommend starting with 3-4 ounces per day.

For those with pre-existing health conditions, please consult with your doctor.

Can I use camel milk instead of cow milk in baking and cooking?

Yes, you can use camel milk instead of cow's milk in cooking and baking. Camel milk can be a direct substitute for cow's milk in most recipes due to its similar liquid consistency, though it has a slightly different taste and nutritional profile. Its unique flavor can add an interesting twist to your dishes and baked goods.

How is your camel milk shipped?

Our milk is bottled on the farm and directly shipped to maintain its purity and prevent exposure to contaminants. The bottles used are made of PET and are BPA-free.

To ensure freshness upon arrival, the milk is shipped frozen within a secure Styrofoam cooler, accompanied by dry ice or ice packs.