Why Tofu isn't Consumed More In India

Posted by nokifi on February 3rd, 2021

Tofu is a food, made by curdling the soy milk using a coagulant; in a similar manner to how paneer is made from milk. Made from soyabean, tofu is being consumed in the south and east Asia since 4th century BC.

Compared to paneer, tofu contains more vitamins, mineral and less sodium and fat. Tofu can be used in different forms such as silken tofu, tempeh ( tofu fermented with beans), and one can manipulate the moisture content inside the tofu so that it can be used in various dishes.

Also, tofu is free of lactose and starch so it can be consumed by diabetic patients, lactose intolerants and is a great alternative of meat products.

But even after the reasons, why tofu is not consumed more in India despite India having much more population who knows about it:

1. Tofu is not available as widely as paneer. Many dairy and departmental shops don't have tofu to sell to the customers.
2. Tofu is often misunderstood as paneer due to its similar looks. And many people misunderstood tofu as paneer.
3. There is a stigma related to tofu that it is not good for men's health. There are statements that consuming tofu and soybean increases estrogen in men which can lead to health complexities. 
4. India is more of cow and buffalo milk consuming country and tofu is less popular than milk products. So, tofu and soy milk will take more time to penetrate the Indian market.
5. Tofu is also seen as a fancy dish that can be found in the asian and authentic chinese restaurants only. Many have heard about it but have hardly tasted it.

For tofu consuming, the best tofu brand in India are:

• Soyuz
• Soyfit
• Morinaga
• Briyos

Many more brands and soybean derived products are also emerging in the market. Have you ever eaten tofu and loved it? Do tell us.