Yes, it is safe to have chhaas or pasteurised buttermilk during pregnancy. Buttermilk is a source of calcium, proteins as well as healthy microorganisms that give you an immunity boost. Buttermilk is believed to relieve gastric issues that are common during pregnancy.
Originally, buttermilk was referred to the liquid left over from making butter from cultured or fermented cream. This method of preparing buttermilk is now rarely found in Western countries but still prevalent in households within Indian subcontinent.
Most commercially available buttermilk is cultured buttermilk. In this type of product, milk is first pasteurised and then a culture of healthy bacteria occurring in buttermilk is introduced. Ideally, this process ensures safety from other bacterial contamination such as E. coli. Hence, it is safe to consume most commercially available buttermilk during pregnancy.
While it is safe, it is important to ensure that the buttermilk you are consuming is made from pasteurised milk. Avoid homemade versions prepared from soured milk as these are more susceptible to contamination and likely lower in nutritional value compared to cultured versions.
Originally, buttermilk was referred to the liquid left over from making butter from cultured or fermented cream. This method of preparing buttermilk is now rarely found in Western countries but still prevalent in households within Indian subcontinent.
It is a known staple in countries with warm climates where milk tends to sour quickly once unrefrigerated. Ayran is a variation that originated in Turkey. Often served with kebabs, köftes, pilafs and other meat dishes as a refreshment. While Chhass is a yogurt-based drink that is famous in Indian subcontinents. It is made by churning yogurt with cold water in a pot. It can either be consumed plain or seasoned with a variety of spices for that extra flavor. Next up we have Doogh also a yogurt-based variation that is served cold and mixed with salt. In usual settings in Iran, it is paired with grilled meat or rice. It may be carbonated and seasoned with mint. Lastly, we have Leben (Laban) that originated from the Middle East. It is referred to as a beverage or food made of fermented milk.
As per tradition, it is prepared by allowing milk to ferment for 24 hours then churning and separating the liquid from the butter.
Also read about consuming other milk products during pregnancy:
