On Saturday, the yogurt industry experienced a significant surge, with sales surpassing Rs 1.54 billion in the formal sector as people celebrated Asar 15, also known as National Paddy Day. This day is traditionally marked by consuming yogurt, beaten rice, and bananas across Nepal.
Massive Sales in Both Formal and Informal Sectors
According to rough estimates, the informal sector contributed an additional Rs 500 million to the yogurt business, bringing the total sales to an impressive figure. This widespread consumption highlights the cultural importance of yogurt on this festive day.
Major Contributors to Yogurt Sales
The sales figures were reported by the Dairy Development Corporation (DDC), Nepal Dairy Association, and Dairy Industry Association. Collectively, these organizations sold approximately 6.2 million liters of yogurt on Saturday. Pralhad Dahal, President of the Nepal Dairy Association, noted that yogurt was sold at an average price of Rs 170 per liter.
Specialty Yogurt and Increased Consumption
In addition to the standard sales, specialty yogurt like Juju Dhau from Bhaktapur also saw substantial demand. President Dahal mentioned that registered vendors across the country sold at least Rs 500 million worth of yogurt.
Arniko Raj Bhandari, former President of the Dairy Industry Association, pointed out that yogurt sales typically double on Asar 15 compared to regular days. On normal days, the formal sector sees a daily yogurt consumption of about 727,000 liters.
Cultural Significance and Economic Impact
The sharp increase in yogurt sales on Asar 15 underscores the cultural significance of this tradition and its economic impact on the dairy industry in Nepal. This annual celebration not only boosts the consumption of dairy products but also highlights the integral role of yogurt in Nepali festivities.
