15 Best Yogurt Brands for Healthy Eating and Delicious Snacking
Explore the ultimate list of top yogurt brands, expert tips, and frequently asked questions for smarter, tastier snacking.
Yogurt is a staple that combines taste and health, offering an excellent source of probiotics, protein, calcium, and essential nutrients. With countless options lining grocery store aisles—from Greek to plant-based, low-fat to whole milk—choosing the best yogurt brand for you can be overwhelming. This article uncovers the top yogurt brands for healthy eating, delivers expert tips for picking the healthiest tubs, and answers frequently asked yogurt questions. Whether you crave creamy classics, protein-packed options, or non-dairy varieties, you’ll find yogurt picks for every palate and dietary need.
Table of Contents
- Why Yogurt Is a Healthy Choice
- What to Look for in Yogurt
- 15 Best Yogurt Brands to Try
- Greek vs. Regular Yogurt: Which is Best?
- Best Plant-Based Yogurts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Yogurt Is a Healthy Choice
Yogurt is more than a versatile ingredient; it’s a nutritional powerhouse loaded with health benefits:
- Probiotics: Yogurt with live and active cultures fosters a healthy gut, aiding digestion and immunity.
- High-Quality Protein: Greek and Icelandic-style yogurts can deliver nearly double the protein of regular yogurt, supporting muscle repair and satiety.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: Yogurt provides a potent source of calcium, vital for bone health; many are fortified with vitamin D for extra benefits.
- Gut Health: Active cultures in yogurt contribute to improved digestion and may help regulate bowel movements.
- Lower in Lactose: The fermentation process reduces lactose content, making many yogurts easier to digest for those with sensitivities.
- Versatility: Yogurt works as a snack, breakfast, smoothie base, or ingredient in both sweet and savory recipes.
What to Look for in Yogurt
Not all yogurts are created equal. Here’s what experts recommend checking when choosing yogurt for health:
- Live & Active Cultures: Look for yogurts that list live probiotics on the label.
- Lower Sugar Content: Aim for options with less than 9 grams of added sugar per serving. Opt for plain or unsweetened for the lowest sugar.
- High Protein: Greek, Icelandic, and certain high-protein brands will help keep you full and satisfied.
- Whole or Low-Fat Dairy: Both can be healthy—whole-milk yogurt is creamier and more filling, but low-fat options are good for reducing calories.
- Minimal Ingredients: Choose yogurts with simple ingredient lists—ideally just milk and cultures.
- Calcium & Vitamin D: Opt for brands that naturally provide or are fortified with calcium and vitamin D for bone health.
- Dairy-Free: For those with lactose intolerance or seeking plant-based options, look for coconut, almond, soy, oat, or cashew formulations with fortified nutrients and live cultures.
15 Best Yogurt Brands to Try
From thick and tangy Greek yogurt to high-protein Icelandic skyr and innovative plant-based choices, here are top-reviewed yogurt brands recommended by dietitians for taste, nutrition, and quality ingredients.
1. Fage Total Greek Yogurt
Why it’s great: Renowned for its creamy texture and mild flavor, Fage offers a wide range of fat percentages. With simple ingredients and no added sugar in plain versions, it’s an excellent high-protein choice.
- 17g protein per serving (for nonfat)
- Available in full fat, low-fat, and nonfat varieties
- Contains live and active cultures
2. Siggi’s Icelandic Skyr
Why it’s great: Icelandic skyr is strained even more than Greek yogurt, making it even thicker. Siggi’s delivers high protein, low sugar, and a simple ingredient list with traditional flavors and unique seasonal options.
- 15g+ protein per serving
- Lower sugar than most mainstream brands
- Options for whole-milk and nonfat
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3. Chobani Greek Yogurt
Why it’s great: Chobani is widely available and comes in a vast array of flavors and styles, including traditional Greek, blended, less sugar, and even oat-based (plant-based) yogurt.
- Offers Greek and plant-based varieties
- High in protein (12g+ per serving)
- Probiotic content supports gut health
4. Stonyfield Organic Yogurt
Why it’s great: As a pioneer in organic dairy, Stonyfield offers options for all ages, including grass-fed and organic Greek yogurts, with commitment to sustainability and clean farming practices.
- USDA Organic, non-GMO
- Available in whole, reduced-fat, and nonfat
- Kid-friendly line with minimal sugar
5. Oikos Triple Zero Greek Yogurt
Why it’s great: Designed for those watching added sugars, Oikos Triple Zero contains no added sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and is sweetened with stevia. It’s high in protein and suitable for active lifestyles.
- 15g protein per serving
- Zero added sugar
- Good fiber content
6. Noosa Yoghurt
Why it’s great: Noosa is celebrated for its rich, creamy, and indulgent Australian-style yogurt, often made with whole milk and premium fruit incorporations.
- Creamy texture, unique flavors
- Higher in sugar, best enjoyed as a treat
- Available in whole-milk
7. Dannon Oikos Pro
Why it’s great: This high-protein yogurt targets athletes and those with higher protein needs. Some options offer additional functional benefits, like vitamin D and calcium fortification.
- 25g protein per serving (Oikos Pro)
- Low sugar
- Great post-workout snack
8. Wallaby Organic Greek Yogurt
Why it’s great: Wallaby is known for a creamy, mellow taste due to its Australian slow-culturing process and organic certification. It’s a clean choice for those wanting fewer additives.
- USDA Organic
- Mild, creamy profile
- Available as Greek and European-style
9. Lifeway Kefir
Why it’s great: Although technically a drinkable yogurt, kefir like Lifeway is loaded with probiotics—often even more strains than traditional yogurts. A good option for smoothies and on-the-go.
- 12+ live and active probiotic cultures
- Available in low-fat and whole-milk
- Great for digestion
10. Maple Hill Creamery Yogurt
Why it’s great: Maple Hill is 100% grass-fed organic dairy, offering plain and flavored yogurts with a focus on sustainability, animal welfare, and regenerative farming.
- Grass-fed certified
- Rich, creamy flavor and texture
- High in Omega-3s
11. Oui by Yoplait French Style Yogurt
Why it’s great: Oui offers traditionally cultured French-style yogurt made in individual glass jars, delivering a subtly sweet, thick, and custard-like treat.
- Simple, whole-milk base
- No artificial preservatives or flavors
- Great for dessert or indulgent snack
12. Activia Probiotic Yogurt
Why it’s great: Well-known for digestive health, Activia features the exclusive Bifidus probiotic culture and comes in a range of fruit flavors.
- Support for regularity
- Live, active probiotic strains
- Available in dairy and non-dairy options
13. So Delicious Dairy Free Yogurt Alternative
Why it’s great: For plant-based eaters, So Delicious offers coconut- and oat-milk based yogurts fortified with calcium and vitamin D, often with live cultures.
- Dairy-free and vegan
- Fortified with probiotics and essential nutrients
- Available in a variety of flavors
14. Kite Hill Almond Milk Yogurt
Why it’s great: Rich and creamy, Kite Hill uses almond milk and live active cultures to deliver a satisfying dairy alternative that’s lower in sugar than many plant-based competitors.
- Dairy- and soy-free
- Rich in protein (for unsweetened Greek-style)
- Simple, clean ingredients
15. Nancy’s Organic Probiotic Yogurt
Why it’s great: Nancy’s is a classic for those who want the benefit of billions of live probiotics and organic, non-GMO ingredients. It is made with whole milk or nonfat options.
- Organic, no artificial sweeteners
- Billions of live probiotics per serving
- Tangy, rich flavor profile
Greek Yogurt vs. Regular Yogurt: Which Is Healthier?
Both Greek and regular yogurts offer nutritional benefits, but they differ in texture, nutrients, and culinary uses.
| Characteristic | Regular Yogurt | Greek Yogurt |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Thinner, Creamy | Thicker, Rich & Tangy |
| Protein | ~10g per 200g | ~20g per 200g |
| Sugar | ~14g per 200g | ~7g per 200g |
| Fat (low-fat) | ~3g per 200g | ~4g per 200g |
| Calcium | 36% DV | 23% DV |
| Probiotic content | High (varies by brand) | High (may differ in strains) |
| Lactose | Higher | Lower |
Choose Greek yogurt for higher protein and lower carb content or regular yogurt for a milder taste and extra calcium.
Best Plant-Based Yogurts
For those who are vegan, lactose intolerant, or looking to avoid dairy, plant-based yogurts continue to improve in both taste and nutrition. The best options are fortified with calcium and vitamin D and use live probiotic cultures for gut health. Key picks include:
- So Delicious Coconutmilk Yogurt: Creamy, coconut-based, often fortified and available in indulgent flavors.
- Kite Hill Almond Yogurt: Clean ingredient list, good option for Greek-style richness.
- Chobani Oat Yogurt: Oat-milk base for a mild, creamy taste with fiber.
- Silk Soy Yogurt: High in protein and fortified with calcium and B12.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the healthiest type of yogurt to buy?
Plain, unsweetened Greek or Icelandic yogurts are typically highest in protein with the least sugar. Look for simple ingredients—ideally just milk and cultures—and added live probiotics for the best gut health benefit.
Is full-fat or low-fat yogurt better?
Both can be part of a healthy diet. Full-fat yogurt is more satisfying and contains healthy fats, while low-fat options can help you trim calories. Choose according to your nutritional needs and preferences.
How much yogurt should you eat a day?
Many experts recommend one 5–7 oz. serving daily for digestive and bone health, but this varies based on diet and calorie goals.
Are all yogurts high in probiotics?
Not all yogurts contain live active cultures by the time you buy them, so always check the label. Most Greek, Icelandic, and traditional varieties mention probiotics if present.
What’s the best yogurt for weight loss?
High-protein, low-sugar yogurts (especially Greek, skyr, or select plant-based) help keep you full for longer and support weight management when paired with healthy eating.
What are the best ways to enjoy yogurt?
- Top with fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds for a balanced breakfast or snack.
- Use plain yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in savory dishes.
- Blend into smoothies for protein and creaminess.
- Freeze for a refreshing dessert.
- Stir into oatmeal or whole grain cereals for gut-friendly probiotics.
Final Tips for Picking the Best Yogurt
Remember: The best yogurt for you fits your taste, dietary preferences, and nutrition goals. Seek options with the fewest ingredients, least sugar, and live cultures for the biggest health upside. And don’t be afraid to explore the expanding world of plant-based and regional styles for new favorites!
References
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/greek-yogurt-vs-yogurt
- https://foodstruct.com/nutrition-comparison-text/milk-vs-yogurt-greek-plain-nonfat
- https://www.calories.info/food/yogurt
- https://tools.myfooddata.com/nutrition-comparison/171284-170886-170903-170887/wt4-wt4-wt1-wt3
- https://www.eatwellcollective.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Greek-Yogurt-Comparison-Chart.pdf
- https://www.yogurtinnutrition.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/greek-yogurt-substitite-diet-plan-high-res.pdf
- https://www.outsideonline.com/health/nutrition/definitive-yogurt-ranking/
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