From Tradition to Nutrition: The Untold Power of Bilona A2 Cow Ghee

🕑14 min read | Published: July 10, 2025 | By: Aadvik Foods

Scrolling through the phone, there is always a new piece of nutritional advice. If one day it's about low fat, the next day it's high fat. The list of options is endless, including protein diets, vegan, paleo, and keto. Plus, the list of buzzwords like gluten-free, organic, dairy-free, and whole-30, which keeps on increasing every day, piling up on the confusion: Am I eating right? Also, the pressure to eat well according to the trends increases, and we actually stop listening to our bodies.

But amidst all the noise of different kinds of foods, isn't it still comforting to go back to the homely meals, the homely ingredients? A simple meal cooked by mom (like how the Bengalis address “ghee-bhat”) is always comforting after a long, tiring day or after tedious journeys. We always tend to go back to our roots when it's about food, which is more about comfort than trend.

What is your comfort food?

What is that traditional ingredient that has been passed on by generations, not just as food but as a source of ritual, nourishment, and medicine? What is one thing “memories of home” is for every individual (Indian) who is staying away from home?

From tradition to trend: An ancestral wisdom for modern wellness

Here is an ingredient that has jumped out of Dadiji's steel containers to yoga cafes and wellness retreats nowadays. It's rich, aromatic, and traditional, but it is incredibly relevant to the modern way of living. It has been used for ages, documented extensively in Ayurveda, to support, sustain, and strengthen. This is a superfat that can offer holistic healing and can be a part of modern diets like keto (it is making headlines as a celebrity’s keto coffee ingredient already). It can be cooked, roasted, and spread. Basically, it can be used in various methods.

This golden-colored, incredible product is known for its purity and digestibility. This is A2 cow ghee, clarified butter with high-density nutrients.

What is A2 cow ghee?

The markets are flooded with various types of ghee, now that consumers are becoming highly informed. So, one may wonder what is this A2 ghee. In the world of ‘number 1s’, does it come second, and if so, why is it special?

These may be the questions, or may be many more.

A2 cow ghee is a premium form of clarified butter that was originally used in traditional Indian dietary practices. This ghee is made from the milk of the cow breeds that are indigenous to India, such as Gir, Sahiwal, Hollikar, and Kankrej.

So, what? What makes it different?

Because these native breeds produce a specific kind of milk protein, which is A2 beta-casein. Now, this protein present in milk makes it easier on the stomach, especially for those who are sensitive to regular dairy. Also, it is rich in other nutrients that support health and wellness.

This ghee is prepared using traditional methods, and the result is a highly nourishing fat that can be used in modern nutrition. Probably it can be named as a ‘heritage health food’ that is crafted with care and purity.

Traditional method of preparation

The method of preparation of this ghee makes it a class apart from the other ghees that are available in the market. This ghee is made by the traditional Bilona ghee-making process (Bilona refers to a traditional wooden churner), which is a very old process of ghee preparation that ensures that the taste, nutritional value, and authenticity of the ghee are intact.

How does the Bilona method work?

First, A2 cow milk is boiled and then cooled
This cold milk is then set into curd overnight by adding a natural culture
A bilona is used to churn this curd, which separates the butter from the buttermilk
The butter thus formed is then slowly heated on a low flame, where it melts and the water evaporates, leaving behind a golden color liquid that is pure aromatic ghee

## The buttermilk that is left behind is also used as a natural refreshing drink in Indian households

The Bilona ghee process is very different from the commercial methods, as there is a step in the commercial method where high heat is used, which can strip away many nutrients and also alter the flavor of the ghee

Bilona ghee has an authentic taste, it has a grainy texture and melts in the mouth, a feel which is absent in the factory-made ghee. Plus, as it is slow-cooked at low heat, many of the nutrients are in place, and no preservatives are used. Through this method, however, only small batches can be prepared, ensuring a more reliable quality.

Big power in a small spoon: the nutritional punch of A2 cow ghee

This ghee is not just another fat; rather, it is a compact source of nourishment that delivers more than just taste. It is loaded with so many essential nutrients that are required for the normal functioning of the body, and can be beneficial when consumed in moderation in a balanced diet.

It ticks so many boxes on the checklist of wellness goals and natural energy.

Nutrient	Amount ( per 10 g)
Calories	89 kCal
Fats	9.96 g
Cholesterol	15.1 mg

A2 ghee is free from certain ingredients that may be more harmful than beneficial. In the bilona method of preparation, the maximum quantity of milk sugars and proteins is removed, like lactose and casein. As the lactose content becomes lower, it may be suitable for people who are intolerant to lactose, and lower proteins make the digestion of this ghee easier for the gut.

In its preparation method, maximum water is evaporated, and only pure clarified butter is derived, so there is no need for additives for its preservation. This also helps in elongating its shelf life without refrigeration. This ghee can be stored in a glass or steel jar to maintain its aroma.

What is special about the A2 protein?

If consumed mindfully, this ghee is a powerhouse of Nutrition. Although science is stiffer to understand, when it comes to A2 protein, the information is exciting. The health benefits of A2 protein made it the “chosen one” in Ayurveda as well.

Studies suggest that the A2 protein is gentler on digestion and prevents gastric intolerances in the body. Therefore, the gut remains healthy and immunity grows stronger. Thus, the overall mood and wellness of the body are enhanced.
If there is less inflammation, there is less drama. Unlike A1, A2 does not release BCM-7, which is linked to bloating and slow gut movement according to scientific research.
Honestly, BCM 7 is a pesky one; it does not stop at the gut alone, its role in lipid oxidation is also documented, which is not a good sign for heart health. So, choosing A2 can be a win here.

Potential side effects

Okay, so A2-protein has a lot of plus points, like digestion ease and is preferred for sensitivities, but it is not completely free from side effects for everyone. Like any other food consumed, the response of the body is the most important thing, which affects overall health.

So, here are certain points to keep in mind: A2 protein as well

In any case, A2 is still a form of casein, so if someone is allergic to dairy, they may still have reactions. It may be tolerable, but it's not allergy-proof in some cases. So it is always better to consult a dietitian or get medical help before including it in your diet if you have sensitivity
The case is similar to lactose, so either consult the doctor or try in a small amount first to test its friendliness on your body.

Difference between A1 and A2 milk

A1 milk	A2 milk
The milk is sourced from foreign or hybrid cow breeds	The milk is sourced from Indigenous Indian cow breeds
The milk contains A1 beta-casein	The milk contains A2 beta-casein
This may cause stomach discomfort as a protein called BCM 7 is formed	In this milk, BCM 7 is not formed, so it is easier to digest and is gut-friendly
This is not traditional in Indian households	This is traditional in Indian households
Used in commercial dairy and process products	Used only in ghee, Ayurvedic preparations and rituals

It is important to check if this is all good without any woe.

Tips to choose the real one

With the rising popularity of this traditional bilona ghee, markets are flooded with different products that may be diluted. Therefore, it is important to remember the following tips:

Always read the label for Indian cow breeds
A2 or A2-beta casein must be mentioned
Bilona method or traditional hand turning (Tip: The bilona method of ghee preparation is labor-intensive, and the production is very little, so it is expensive. And, if the product you are buying is cheap, it is likely to be diluted)
FSSAI certification

Delicious ways to have this ghee

I bet for most of us, a plate of steaming hot rice with a spoonful of ghee is heaven! Yet there may be other ways to incorporate this ghee in different foods.

Ghee roast veggies- In a pan, heat the ghee and add chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, broccoli, and sweet potato. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasoning of your choice along with a spoonful of A2 ghee. Cook until crisp-tender and enjoy it with your favorite rice or roti.

Keto bulletproof coffee- In a cup of freshly brewed black coffee, add one tablespoon of A2 ghee blend in until the mix is creamy and frothy. Pour this into your mug and enjoy it warm in the morning. Trust me, this high-fat coffee provides full-on energy, keeps you focused for the whole day, and supports ketosis for those who are on a low-carb diet

An Indian dessert is always incomplete without ghee. I bet you love ghee in some form. So, what is your choice?

A lifetime of wellness in a spoon

When grandma heated a spoonful of ghee and added it to the hot dal-chawal, saying “Isse takat ayegi," she meant that it would not only fuel the body but also the soul- this is something we understand today.

Traditional A2 ghee is therapy, that is like an heirloom. It is a refreshingly simple yet deeply nutritious food choice that has its roots in tradition. This ghee can be used in any of the recipes just to enhance its taste or self-care routines for overall wellness. This ghee is made from native Indian cows through the bilona method, locking its goodness intact. So, whether one is a wellness explorer or clean-eating foody, this A2 ghee is worth exploring.

Welcome back, A2 ghee to your lives- not as a trend, but as a legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A2 ghee safe for lactose-intolerant people?

During the bilona ghee making, maximum sugars are removed from the milk. So the quantity of lactose becomes less, making it safe for consumption by lactose-intolerant people. However, it is recommended to seek proper medical advice before adding something new to the diet.

How much A2 ghee is consumed per day?

Adults can consume one to two spoonfuls of A2 ghee per day along with a balanced diet per day. However, to avoid any unknown complications, medical advice from a practitioner may be helpful.

Is A2 ghee keto-friendly?

A2 ghee is rich in healthy fats, so it is suitable for the keto diet.

Can I use A2 ghee on my skin or hair?

Ghee is rich in fatty acids. These ingredients also have an effect on wound healing, as per studies. Therefore, it can be used on skin and hair for its moisturizing properties.

How to know if my ghee is A2?

A2 ghee is golden in color, has a strong aroma, and has a grainy texture. When put in a glass of water, it does not mix with water. It is specifically made from milk of the Indian breed cows like Gir, Sahiwal, Hollikar, and Kankrej, and through the Bilona method only. Please check the label before buying.

Why is A2 cow ghee so expensive?

This ghee is made by the bilona method, where small batches of butter are produced from the hand churning of the curd. Due to its labor-intensive nature and lower production, this ghee is expensive.

Which type of ghee is best for health?

Traditionally made ghee that has no adulterations is the best ghee for health.