Demand for Laghman cheese growing

MEHTARLAM (Pajhwok): Several livestock farmers in eastern Laghman province are happy with growing demand for their handmade cheese has garnered a loyal following, not only in Afghanistan but also in other countries, where it is often sent as a gift.

Khan Agha, a resident of the Sarfaraz Khan Qala of Qarghayee district, has been engaged in livestock farming for many years to meet his daily needs.

He keeps cows and produces cheese from their milk, with his entire family involved in the process. Together, they supply approximately 35 kilograms of cheese each week to the market.

Khan Agha put the current market price of per seven kilograms of cheese at 1,800 afghanis.

"We are proud of our handmade cheese being exported not just to all provinces but also to foreign countries, where people send it as a gift to friends," he commented.

In cheese production, he uses cow's milk, walnuts, spices, a special type of salt and various herbs.

Additionally, 70-year-old Aqal Shah from the Ambeir area of the same district recalled he would only sell milk when he had livestock.

Now, however, he has shifted to making cheese for sale in the market.

A cheese seller in the provincial capital, Mehtarlam, confirmed Laghman cheese was delicious and demand for it was increasing.

He explained the most famous varieties originated from the Qarghayee district, particularly Ambeir and Gunpal areas, which were also priced higher\..

sa/mud