Veganism may be on the rise, but for most people milk remains the preferred source of calcium—which we all need to survive—as well as an essential ingredient in butter, cheese, yogurt, and chocolate. This video investigates myths, historical facts, and cultural traditions surrounding the dairy industry’s chief product. Why has milk been provided at little or no cost to generations of schoolchildren? Did Genghis Khan really fuel his army with milk? And how do the nutritional needs of astronauts fit into this picture? In other scenes, chef Paul Merrett provides instructions on preparing a classic custard tart, a mouth-watering fish pie, and the perfect cappuccino. He also shows why milk is the perfect answer to spicy food. Produced by the Open University. A part of the series Ever Wondered About Food? 2. (30 minutes)