How to choose the right yogurt

Published 6:38 am Saturday, January 5, 2019

Remember when shopping for yogurt was as simple as choosing a flavor you like?

Now there’s Greek, Icelandic, full-fat, organic, low-sugar and all sorts of combinations to choose from. Here, we’ll share the major differences and a few pointers for selecting one that works for you.

Greek

Email newsletter signup

Greek yogurt is perhaps the most popular, known for its high amount of protein and thick, rich texture. It’s made by straining extra whey liquid from regular yogurt, which condenses the amount of protein in a serving, as well as lowers the sugar.

Icelandic

Also called skyr, Icelandic yogurt is strained even more than Greek yogurt, giving it an almost cheese-like thickness that holds its shape on a spoon — and yet, it’s still creamy. Traditionally, skyr is made with low-fat milk, but you can find whole-milk varieties as well.

French

Often sold in a fancy glass jar, French-style yogurt is not prepared like the others. Rather than being made in one big vat and then poured into individual containers, the ingredients are placed in individual glass jars and left to set. This technique is called “pot-set,” and it yields a thinner yet still very smooth texture.

Australian

Unlike Greek and Icelandic yogurt, Australian yogurt is not strained. This gives it a slightly looser consistency. However, in order to make sure it’s still creamy, it’s either made with whole milk or cooked slower and longer. This style of yogurt is often sweetened with honey or other flavors that give it a dessert-like quality.

Which Should I Choose?

Of course, that depends on your overall preferences and health goals, but there are still a few things to consider.

The good news is that mostly all yogurts contain the good-for-your-gut probiotics. But if you’re looking for a low-sugar snack, always check the label. You’d be surprised how many yogurts have 25-plus grams of sugar in a single serving. Under 10 grams of sugar is a good start; bonus points for no added sugar.


Coconutty Cream Pie Yogurt Dip

Serves 1, Prep Time: 5 minuts       

All you need

  • 1 5.3 oz container Greek Vanilla Lowfat Yogurt
  • 1 tbsp creamy almond butter (or other nut butter)
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp shredded and toasted coconut
  • 1 tsp mini chocolate chips
  • Pineapple chunks or spears, and strawberries (for dipping)

All you do

  1. Mix yogurt, nut butter and cinnamon together in a bowl.
  2. Sprinkle coconut and chocolate chips on top.