The History of Sheep's Milk in KazakhstanCEFR A2
22 Oct 2025
Adapted from Vlast.kz, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Fadhil Abhimantra, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
In the past, sheep's milk was the main source of dairy products in Kazakhstan. It was used to make butter and a cheese called kurt. Families did not usually keep cows because they needed more care than sheep.
Over the years, people began to prefer cows for milk. Traditional sheep farming has decreased, especially since the Soviet era, when industrial farming became popular.
Today, some communities still milk sheep. They take their sheep to the mountains in summer and return them in winter. This practice represents more than farming; it shows a deep connection to culture and traditions.
Difficult words
- dairy — Products made from milk.
- butter — A solid yellow food made from milk.
- traditions — Customs or beliefs passed down through generations.
- communities — Groups of people living in the same area.
- farming — The activity of growing crops and raising animals.
- connection — A relationship or bond between things.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think about the change from sheep to cow dairy farming?
- How do traditions influence your culture today?
- What value do you see in keeping cultural practices alive?
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