Rich creamy maas: health benefits of a South African favourite
Maas contains a large amount of lactic acid bacteria which is a valuable and effective probiotic with gut-healing and immune-boosting properties.
Maas, also know as amasi, is a fermented milk product commonly consumed throughout South Africa. It has the consistency of a liquid yoghurt and has a taste which can be described as a cross between cottage cheese and plain yoghurt. Traditionally it is made from unpasteurised milk which is left in a calabash until it ferments. Nowadays it is made with a culture and sold in supermarkets.
According to the Rediscover Dairy website, South Africa has high rates of the so called chronic diseases of lifestyle – non-communicable diseases related to dietary factors. These include heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, which are all associated with overweight and obesity. Thus, both under and overnutrition are rife in our country.
Maas has become a nutritional staple for most South Africans for hundreds of years now and is best enjoyed with phuthu (mielie meal) or crumbed bread. Maas has also come into the mainstream of probiotic foods and has continued to gain attention and praise for its gut-healing, immune-boosting properties.
Q: What are probiotics?
A: They are “good bacteria,” and amasi is loaded with several kinds, including the lactic acid bacteria called lactobacillus.
Maas nutritional facts according to the Dr Axe website:
One cup of maas (240 ml) made with whole cow’s milk has about:
- 170 calories
- 8 grams of protein
- 11 grams of fat
- 7 grams of sugar
- 10 grams of carbohydrates
Maas is a good source of nutrients including:
- probiotic bacteria
- protein
- calcium
- B vitamins
- vitamin A
- iron
- magnesium
- potassium
- omega-3 fatty acids and CLA
DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics.
To receive news links via WhatsApp, send an invite to 061 876 3179
The Southlands Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest – why not join us there?
Do you have more information pertaining to this story?
Feel free to let us know by commenting on our facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)
