Food is a basic necessity of life.
Food commodities are farm produce that are cultivated and sold in their original form. These items are not further processed into other products before they are transported to other countries.
Food commodities are sold on the commodity market which focuses on the sale of raw food items on the international market. Examples of food commodities are egg, milk, coffee, cocoa, sugar and wheat.
The focus of this article is egg and milk.
The production of eggs starts from the selection of hens for a breeding program which aims to produce more chicks. After adequate services like water, feed and veterinary care, these chicks are fit to join the number of hens available for laying eggs.
Also, these chicks are further cared for to keep them at their best when they reach the egg-laying stage. These chicks can lay eggs which are collected for onward processing and sales.
Moving on, milk is a nutrient-filled liquid that is produced by the mammary gland of a female mammal. Milk contains water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vegetables and minerals.
Cow milk is the most consumed type of milk by humans. Though, milk from animals like sheep and goats is consumed by people in different locations. Fresh whole, skimmed, evaporated, condensed and powdered milk are different types of milk that exist today.
Culinary Uses of Eggs and Milk
Eggs and milk can be used in a wide range of meals and combinations.
Eggs can be used in the following ways:
1. Baking
Eggs are used in baking to provide richness and texture to cakes, muffins, bread cookies and other pastry dishes. They hold ingredients together giving them a firm look.
2. Creating Smooth Mixtures
Eggs are used in creating smooth mixtures in salads, custards and other cream combinations.
3. Coatings
Eggs are added in coatings to prepare fried chicken and fish fillets. This allows the breadcrumbs and flour to stick giving the chicken that crispy and crunchy feel.
4. Binding
Keeping your ingredients from falling off while apart is another wonderful use of eggs as seen in burgers.
Uses of Milk
1. Cooking
Milk is a popular liquid used with cereals which is a popular breakfast in most homes. Milk can also be used in making pancakes, waffles, custards and other great dishes.
2. Beverages
Milk can be taken alone or used with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and smoothies.
3. Dairy Products
Your favourite yoghurt, butter, ice cream and cheese are produced with milk as a major ingredient.
4. Softening of Meats and Proteins
Milk is used to soften or break down meat and poultry products, putting in moisture and making them soft for mouth-watering dishes.
Nutritional Value of Eggs and Milk
Proteins
Eggs are a great source of amino acids which is important for the repair of worn-out body tissues. Also, milk contains whey and casein protein which helps in immune function.
Minerals
Eggs and milk contain minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, zinc and magnesium which helps the muscle function properly.
Fats
Eggs and milk have an abundance of healthy fats which include monounsaturated (e.g. peanut) and polyunsaturated fats (e.g. vegetable oil). They also contain omega-3 fatty acids which are important for the health of your heart.
Vitamins
Eggs and milk contain vitamins A, B2, D, E and B12 which help in eye health, immune function, maintaining our bones, red blood cell formation and others.
Water
Milk has a large percentage of water which is great for keeping the body hydrated.
Health Benefits of Eggs and Milk as Foods
Having eggs in your diet helps in the following ways:
1. Highly nutritious.
2. Doesn’t affect blood cholesterol.
3. Increase high-density lipoprotein also known as good cholesterol.
4. Reduces the risk of heart disease.
5. Contains choline which is important in building cell membranes.
6. Contains vitamin A which helps in keeping your eyes sharp as you grow older.
On the other hand, milk does the following:
1. Milk increases your digestive health.
2. Boosts your immune system.
3. Superb for skin and hair health.
4. Great for your bones and teeth.
5. Helps to maintain your heart.
6. An antidote for stress.
Storage and Handling of Eggs and Milk
Eggs and milk must be stored and handled properly to prevent spoilage hence making it unsafe for consumption.
Eggs should be handled and stored in the following ways:
1. Ensure that your hands are thoroughly washed before touching the eggs.
2. Examine eggs for cracks or foul-smelling odour.
3. Use eggs as they are gotten that are last in first out.
4. Do not keep raw eggs close to already-cooked meals to avoid contamination.
5. Eggs should be stored in a carton or rack with the pointed end kept down to keep the yoke intact.
6. Endeavour to maintain steady temperatures during storage.
Milk should be handled and stored in the ways listed below:
1. Check milk for unusual odours before use.
2. Seafood and raw meat should be kept far away from your milk container.
3. Milk should be stored at the right temperature and used up as soon as possible.
4. Do not expose milk to sunlight.
5. Milk should be kept in airtight containers.
6. Check the expiry or best-by date on the packaging of your milk.
Conclusion
Eggs and milk are food commodities consumed by a large number of the human race cutting across different communities, races, countries and continents.
Proper handling and storage help you to reap the benefits of great nutrients from the consumption of eggs and milk.
For more on Food Commodities, check Cereal and Pulse.
Researched by Iloh Chioma
