Sana (dairy product) facts for kids

Sana (say "Sah-nah") is a special kind of milk drink that comes from Romania. It's a fermented drink, which means it's made by letting good tiny living things (like bacteria) change the milk. People in Romania have been enjoying Sana for hundreds of years!

What is Sana?

Sana is a creamy, slightly sweet drink that's a bit like kefir, buttermilk, or soured milk. But Sana has its own unique taste that many people love. It's a popular part of Romanian cuisine.

How is Sana Made?

Sana is made from fresh, raw milk that hasn't been pasteurized (heated to kill germs). To make it, the milk goes through a process called fermentation. This is when helpful bacteria in the milk start to grow and change the milk's pH level, making it more acidic. This process gives Sana its special taste and texture. Sana usually has at least 3.6% fat, which makes it rich and creamy.

Different Kinds of Sana

Most Sana is made from cow's milk. But you can also find Sana made from other types of milk! In recent years, Sana made from goat's milk has become more popular. Some people believe goat's milk has extra health benefits. You might even find Sana made from sheep's milk or even buffalo milk!

Why is Sana Good for You?

Just like other fermented dairy products, Sana is good for your health, especially for your tummy! It contains helpful bacteria that can improve your gut microbiome. This means it helps keep the good bacteria in your stomach and intestines happy, which can help with digestion and overall well-being.

Sana in the Kitchen

Sana isn't just for drinking! It's also a secret ingredient in many recipes. People use Sana when they are baking, especially for making delicious breads or other types of pastries. It can add a unique flavor and texture to baked goods.

Where Can You Find Sana?

Sana is a very special drink that is mainly found in its home country, Romania, and also in a nearby country called Moldova. If you visit these places, you'll likely see Sana in stores and on menus!