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Man in Gujarat, India is selling donkey milk for a high price online

Man in Gujarat, India is selling donkey milk for a high price online

April 21, 2024

Gujarat - Dhiren Solanki is defying stereotypes and capitalizing on a niche market by selling donkey milk at a premium price. Solanki's farm, located in Patan district, houses 42 donkeys and generates a monthly income of ₹ 2-3 lakh by supplying donkey milk to clients in South India.

Donkey milk, known for its properties similar to human breast milk, has seen a surge in demand from the cosmetics industry and for use in infant formula. Solanki, initially seeking a government job, transitioned to donkey farming after discovering its potential in South India.

Man in Gujarat, India is selling donkey milk for a high price online

From Humble Beginnings to Booming Business

Solanki's journey wasn't without challenges. With limited demand for donkey milk in Gujarat, his initial efforts yielded no income. However, by reaching out to companies in South India, particularly those in Karnataka and Kerala, he established a clientele consisting primarily of cosmetic companies seeking donkey milk for their products.

Man in Gujarat, India is selling donkey milk for a high price online

Donkey Milk: A Pricier Alternative

Solanki's donkey milk sells between ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 7,000 per liter, a stark contrast to the average price of ₹ 65 per liter for cow milk.  Donkey milk is preserved through freezing or converted into powdered form, with prices reaching up to ₹ 1 lakh per kilogram.

Looking to the Future

Solanki, who has invested ₹ 38 lakh in his farm so far, is seeking government support for the donkey milk industry. He hopes to see increased recognition of this sector's potential.

Man in Gujarat, India is selling donkey milk for a high price online

Donkey Milk: A Historical Remedy with Modern Applications

Donkey milk boasts a rich history of use in ancient medicine.  Cleopatra is said to have bathed in it, while Hippocrates prescribed it for various ailments.  Modern science is rediscovering its potential benefits, including its suitability for infants with cow milk allergies and its positive effects on gut health and immunity. Additionally, donkey milk's resistance to pathogens contributes to its extended shelf life.

High Demand, Limited Availability

A report by the US National Library of Medicine highlights the close resemblance of donkey milk to human breast milk compared to cow milk. This similarity, coupled with its potential health benefits, contributes to the high demand and limited availability of donkey milk, driving up prices.