Camels are not your typical finicky herd animals anymore. They are gaining popularity in the world of agriculture.

While the idea of incorporating camel milk into your diet may seem odd to some in Europe or the United States, it has been a dietary staple for many communities for years. Now, camel products are making their way to shelves worldwide.

Currently, it is the United Nations’ international year of the camel, celebrating camels, alpacas, and llamas. Events like the big camel parade in Paris aim to raise awareness about these animals.

Camels already contribute 8% of sub-Saharan Africa’s milk production and are expected to see a significant increase in global trade, reaching $13 billion by the end of the decade.

Experts like Dr. Ariel Ahern from the University of Oxford point out the rapid growth in camel farming, especially in regions like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. They predict that by 2050, camel products may become more common even in western countries like the UK.

Camels are gaining popularity due to their ability to thrive in harsh environments, making them a sustainable alternative in the face of climate change. Their high efficiency in converting food and water into meat and dairy products makes them a valuable resource in regions facing food and water scarcity.

With the potential environmental benefits of camel farming, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock farming, the shift towards camels in agriculture seems promising.

Why are we seeing a shift towards camels?

The International Year of the Camel aims to raise awareness about the importance of camels in the future food chain. As climate change threatens traditional food sources, camels offer advantages in adapting to dry climates and maximizing resource efficiency.

Camels’ resilience to extreme conditions, lower resource requirements, and lower environmental impact make them a promising option for sustainable agriculture.

Is it time to add camel to your diet?

Camel products like milk and meat offer nutritional benefits and can be suitable alternatives for those with dietary restrictions. Camel milk, in particular, is rich in vitamin C and iron, making it a healthy option for many.

Studies show that camel milk can help lower blood sugar levels and boost immunity, while camel meat is leaner and higher in iron compared to traditional meats like beef or lamb.

Camel: Coming to a farm near you?

While camel farming is on the rise, experts caution against industrialized models and advocate for more sustainable practices. Free-range, nomadic farming models that allow camels to graze naturally may offer a greener alternative to traditional agriculture.

By utilizing the unique traits of camels, such as their ability to thrive in arid environments and their resource efficiency, we can create a more sustainable and resilient food system for the future.

About our experts

Ariel Ahearn is a lecturer at the University of Oxford, specializing in human geography and rural development. Dr. Ahearn has extensive experience working with nomadic communities in Mongolia and advocating for sustainable land use practices.

Ilse Köhler Rollefson is a German scientist known for her work with camel herders in India and her advocacy for pastoralism and sustainable farming. She is a co-founder of Camel Charisma, promoting eco-friendly camel products.

For more information on camel farming and its potential impact on agriculture, read on.