Airag – Fermented Mare’s Milk

Airag, a Taste of Summer of Mongolia

Mongolians have been preparing and drinking Airag for hundreds of years. Aside from Mongolia, countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Kalmykia and ethnic group Bashkirs also prepare Airag. Generally, equestrian nomads use this traditional drink.
This beverage is widely used in Mongolia and the best Airag is made in Bulgan, Uvurkhangai, Tuv and Dundgovi provinces. There are 0.3 to 0.4 milligrams of A vitamin, 95-100 milligrams of C vitamin and 100 to 200 milligrams of ascorbic acid (water soluble vitamin C), 0.65 to 1.05 milligrams of E vitamin  in one liter of Airag. It is very rich in vitamin D and B type vitamin. Compared to cow’s milk, Airag is rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, cobalt and copper.
Airag keeps stomach pH acid levels in check and kills harmful bacteria, bacilli, stafilokok and also prevents the increase  of viruses of tuberculosis and typhoid etc.  The reason, this fermented beverage has so many health benefits, is the result of useful bacteria that is causing the fermentation process and high amount of milk acid.