14 Best Yogurt Brands for Every Diet, Taste, and Nutrition Need
Explore the top yogurt brands that deliver exceptional nutrition, flavor, and satisfaction for every palate and dietary lifestyle.
Yogurt has long held its place as a nutritional powerhouse, prized for its protein, calcium, probiotics, and versatility at breakfast or as a snack. The choices can be overwhelming, though — ranging from extra creamy Greek varieties to innovative plant-based blends and lower-sugar cups. To guide you toward top picks, this article details the very best yogurt brands, with essential info to help you match your health goals, dietary needs, and taste preferences. Plus, learn how to shop smarter and maximize the nutritional benefits of your favorite cup.
Why Yogurt Should Be a Staple in Your Diet
Yogurt provides a wealth of nutritional benefits, making it an excellent daily choice for most people:
- High-quality protein: Supports muscle repair, satiety, and overall health. Greek yogurt, in particular, offers an especially high protein content.
- Calcium and minerals: Yogurt is a significant source of calcium for strong bones, as well as phosphorus and potassium.
- Beneficial probiotics: Live active cultures support digestive health and immune function.
- Vitamins B2 and B12: Often higher than in milk, supporting energy and brain health.
- Versatile serving: Enjoy it plain, with fruit, in smoothies, or as a topping and cooking ingredient.
How to Choose the Best Yogurt Brand for You
Not all yogurts are created equal. When browsing the dairy aisle, consider these essential factors:
- Protein content: Aim for at least 5 grams per serving; Greek and Icelandic styles are typically highest.
- Added sugar: Opt for yogurts with under 8 grams added sugar per serving. Choose plain or “less sugar” varieties and add your own fruit for flavor.
- Calcium and vitamin D: Seek out brands that are a good source of both, especially if you follow a vegetarian or plant-based diet.
- Probiotic cultures: Look for “live and active cultures” on the packaging for optimal digestive and immune benefits.
- Ingredients list: Shorter is better. Avoid artificial flavors, colors, and excessive additives.
- Dairy or plant-based: Consider your dietary needs. Lactose intolerance or vegan? Seek out coconut, almond, soy, or oat-based options.
- Texture and flavor: From thick and creamy to light and whipped, choose what appeals to your palate.
The 14 Best Yogurt Brands for Every Taste and Lifestyle
Explore our top picks — curated for protein content, probiotic benefits, taste, and dietary needs — with key highlights and nutrition insights for each.
1. Chobani Greek Yogurt
- Best Overall Greek Yogurt
- Protein: Up to 15g per serving
- Live cultures: Contains a multi-strain blend for gut health
- Available in nonfat, low-fat, and whole milk varieties
- Offers “less sugar” and “zero sugar” options
Chobani pioneered Greek yogurt’s popularity in the U.S. with thick, tangy offerings, clean ingredients, and many flavors. The brand stands out for its high protein content (almost double regular yogurt) while maintaining live probiotic cultures. Try their “less sugar” line for reduced added sugars without sacrificing taste.
2. Siggi’s Icelandic Skyr
- Best for High Protein and Minimal Ingredients
- Protein: 14–19g per cup
- Very low sugar; some cups are unsweetened
- Creamy, extra-thick texture thanks to traditional straining
Siggi’s Skyr is an Icelandic dairy yogurt made by straining for supreme thickness and a mild tang. The ingredient list is short and simple, with no artificial sweeteners or preservatives. It’s a fantastic pick for those looking to maximize protein and minimize additives.
3. Fage Total Greek Yogurt
- Best for Customizable Creaminess
- Available in whole, 2%, and 0% fat versions
- Extremely versatile in recipes and as a snack
- Known for rich, smooth texture
For those who love unflavored yogurt, Fage Total is the gold standard among Greek yogurts. Naturally sour, exceptionally smooth, and available in multiple fat levels, it’s great for both sweet and savory uses. Add your own fruit or drizzle with honey for a customized treat.
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4. Stonyfield Organic Yogurt
- Best Organic Variety
- Organic certification, non-GMO
- Offers Greek, traditional, and kids’ lines
- No antibiotics, synthetic hormones, or artificial flavors
Stonyfield is synonymous with organic yogurt. With options ranging from regular to Greek and whole-milk kids’ tubes, this brand is a perfect match for those seeking cleaner, earth-friendly dairy — with plenty of probiotics and wholesome flavor.
5. Oikos Triple Zero
- Best High-Protein, Low-Sugar Pick
- 15g protein, 0g added sugar, 0% fat per serving
- No artificial sweeteners
- Sweetened with stevia for less sugar
Oikos Triple Zero is tailored for fitness-minded eaters and those needing to avoid added sugars. With 15g protein and a rich, creamy consistency, it’s a yogurt you can feel good about reaching for post-workout or as a protein-packed snack.
6. Yoplait Original Yogurt
- Classic Taste with Widespread Appeal
- Many flavors, smooth texture
- Widely available at most supermarkets
Yoplait remains a favorite for its accessibility and variety. The Original line offers a smooth, mellow taste and plenty of flavors, although added sugar is higher than some other options. Their “light” and “protein” offshoots can be a better fit for health-focused eaters.
7. Danone Oikos Greek Yogurt
- Reliable, Family-Friendly Greek Yogurt
- Available in regular and Triple Zero (no sugar) lines
- Creamy texture, high in protein
Danone’s Oikos offers something for every member of the family. Choices range from classic Greek to high-protein, low-sugar “Triple Zero,” ensuring there’s a cup for everyone’s lifestyle.
8. Wallaby Organic Yogurt
- Best for Organic, Creamy Australian Style
- Mild, creamy texture
- Pasture-raised, organic dairy
Wallaby offers an Australian-style yogurt, which lands midway between regular and Greek in thickness. With organic certification and whole-milk varieties, it’s perfect for those desiring wholesome dairy with a delicate, approachable flavor.
9. Activia Probiotic Yogurt
- Best for Digestive Health
- Unique probiotic strain (Bifidus Regularis)
- Available in a wide range of fruit flavors
- Mild, smooth flavor profile
Activia is specifically formulated to deliver probiotics that support regularity. If you’re seeking targeted digestive benefits, this brand’s clinically tested cultures make it a compelling choice.
10. Nancy’s Probiotic Yogurt
- Best for Maximum Probiotic Diversity
- Dozens of live cultures
- Plain, low sugar, and organic options
Nancy’s offers one of the most robust probiotic blends available. For those focused mainly on gut health, its live culture profile is unmatched, and the tangy, creamy flavor is delightful with fruit or granola.
11. Brown Cow Cream Top Yogurt
- Best for Rich, Indulgent Texture
- Non-homogenized with natural cream top
- Simple list of ingredients
Brown Cow offers an old-fashioned, naturally creamy yogurt thanks to minimal processing. The “cream top” distinguishes it for those who love extra luscious dairy. Ideal for an indulgent treat or as a dessert base.
12. Kite Hill Almond Milk Yogurt
- Best Dairy-Free Alternative
- Almond-based, plant protein
- Available in unsweetened and flavored varieties
Kite Hill leads the plant-based category with a tangy, dairy-free yogurt rich in almond protein. With both unsweetened and lower-sugar fruit blends, it’s a satisfying dairy alternative for vegans or those who are lactose intolerant.
13. So Delicious Coconutmilk Yogurt
- Best for Coconut Lovers
- Plant-based, coconut milk base
- Lactose and gluten free
Offering creamy, tropical flavor, So Delicious is ideal for those sensitive to dairy or looking to avoid soy. While lower in protein than dairy yogurts, it is a solid vegan treat with live probiotics.
14. Silk Soymilk Yogurt
- Best for Plant-Based Protein
- Nearly as much protein as dairy options
- Rich, creamy flavor profile
Silk’s soymilk-based yogurt is a leader among plant-based yogurts for protein content, making it the top pick for vegans aiming to get a nutrition profile closest to traditional dairy.
Nutritional Comparison: Greek Yogurt vs. Regular Yogurt
| Regular Yogurt (200g) | Greek Yogurt (200g) | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 126 | 146 |
| Carbs | 14g | 7.9g |
| Sugar | 14g | 7.1g |
| Protein | 10.5g | 19.9g |
| Fat | 3.1g | 3.8g |
| Calcium (%DV) | 36% | 23% |
Greek yogurt offers more protein and less sugar than regular yogurt. The straining process responsible for its thick texture removes much of the lactose (milk sugar), but keeps protein high. Choose based on your protein and calcium needs — or try both to mix things up!
Are Plant-Based Yogurts as Healthy as Dairy Yogurt?
Plant-based yogurts — made from almond, coconut, soy, oat, or cashew — offer a dairy-free probiotic solution. Nutritionally, they tend to have:
- Less protein (except soymilk yogurts, which can rival dairy)
- More fiber, less saturated fat (except for coconut-based types)
- Often added calcium and vitamins for parity with dairy
Many plant-based yogurts contain live cultures for digestive health. Choose those with added protein or minimal added sugar for the best balance.
Tips for Shopping and Enjoying Yogurt
Maximize nutrition and flavor with these smart strategies:
- Check the label for high protein (over 10g) and low added sugar (under 8g).
- Choose organic when possible for fewer additives and hormones.
- Avoid yogurts with high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners if you prefer to minimize processed ingredients.
- Use plain yogurt as a healthy swap for sour cream, mayo, or in smoothie bowls and salad dressings.
- Enhance plain yogurt with fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for personalized flavor and extra nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the healthiest type of yogurt?
A: Greek and Icelandic (Skyr) yogurts are healthiest for most, thanks to their high protein and probiotic content, plus low sugar. However, the healthiest yogurt for you is the one that meets your protein, calcium, and flavor preferences without sabotaging your dietary goals.
Q: How do plant-based yogurts compare nutritionally to dairy yogurts?
A: Most plant-based yogurts contain less protein, but are naturally lower in saturated fat (except coconut-based). Soy-based yogurts come closest to dairy in protein and texture, while almond and oat varieties provide more fiber.
Q: Are all yogurts good for gut health?
A: Only yogurts with live and active cultures support gut health. Always check the packaging for an official “Live & Active Cultures” seal or named probiotic strains.
Q: How much sugar should I look for in yogurt?
A: Aim for less than 8 grams of added sugar per serving. Plain yogurts typically have 5–7g of natural milk sugars (lactose), but sweetened versions quickly add up.
Q: How much yogurt can I eat in a day?
A: Most adults can safely enjoy one to two servings per day as part of a balanced diet, unless medically advised otherwise. Diversity in your fermented foods is also beneficial.
Bottom Line
With so many outstanding choices, the best yogurt brand is the one that fits your lifestyle and dietary needs. Whether you love creamy Greek, robust Skyr, organic traditional, or plant-based alternatives, there’s a cup for every preference. Keep nutrition labels in mind, and enjoy all the probiotic, protein, and flavor benefits that yogurt has to offer.
References
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/greek-yogurt-vs-yogurt
- https://foodstruct.com/nutrition-comparison-text/milk-vs-yogurt-greek-plain-nonfat
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10248066/
- https://www.eatwellcollective.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Greek-Yogurt-Comparison-Chart.pdf
- https://tools.myfooddata.com/nutrition-comparison/171284-170886-170903-170887/wt4-wt4-wt1-wt3
- https://usa.fage/nutrition
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