Greek yogurt has surged in popularity for its thick texture, protein content, and versatility in various dishes. Packed with probiotics and protein, it serves as an excellent base for snacks, smoothies, and meals. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best Greek yogurt for your diet? We’ve asked nutritionists to test some of the top brands on the market, so you don’t have to. Here’s a list of the 15 best Greek yogurt brands, tested and approved by nutrition experts.
1. FAGE Total 5% Plain Greek Yogurt
FAGE Total is a classic in the Greek yogurt world, known for its rich and creamy texture. Nutritionists praise its high protein content—20 grams per serving—and simple ingredient list: just milk and live cultures. The full-fat version (5%) provides a satisfying mouthfeel, and it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a more indulgent yet nutritious yogurt option. Its versatility makes it suitable for sweet or savory dishes, and it’s perfect for those looking to boost protein intake.
2. Chobani Non-Fat Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Chobani offers a non-fat Greek yogurt that packs a punch with 15 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving. It has a smooth texture and mild tang, making it an easy addition to smoothies, parfaits, or as a base for a savory dip. Its low-fat content makes it ideal for those on calorie-controlled diets or anyone looking for a lower-calorie option without sacrificing protein. Nutritionists also love that it contains live active cultures, which are beneficial for digestive health.
3. Siggi’s Icelandic-Style Skyr (Plain)
Though Siggi’s is technically Icelandic-style yogurt (skyr), it shares many similarities with Greek yogurt, including its creamy texture and high protein content. Each serving provides 15-17 grams of protein. Siggi’s plain skyr is made with simple, organic ingredients and has a slightly milder, less tangy taste than traditional Greek yogurt. It’s a great option for those who want a rich source of protein without too much acidity, and its probiotic-rich cultures support gut health.
4. Oikos Triple Zero Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Oikos Triple Zero is a popular choice for health-conscious individuals looking for a high-protein yogurt that’s free from added sugar. Each serving contains 15 grams of protein and is sweetened with stevia and monk fruit instead of sugar. This makes it a great option for people following a low-sugar or ketogenic diet. Its creamy texture and mildly tangy flavor make it a great addition to smoothies, bowls, or simply eaten as a snack.
5. Stonyfield Organic Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Stonyfield is renowned for its organic dairy products, and their Greek yogurt is no exception. It contains 15 grams of protein per serving and is made from milk sourced from pasture-raised cows, which adds a richer flavor. It’s also free from artificial additives, making it a solid choice for those looking for an organic and nutritious yogurt option. Nutritionists recommend this for families and individuals looking for a clean, high-quality Greek yogurt with probiotics.
6. Oikos Pro Protein Greek Yogurt (Strawberry)
Oikos Pro is designed specifically for those looking to increase their protein intake. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it provides a substantial dose of nutrition while maintaining a creamy texture. The strawberry flavor is naturally sweetened with monk fruit, making it a healthier alternative to sugary flavored yogurts. It’s an excellent choice for post-workout recovery or anyone in need of a filling, high-protein snack.
7. Yoplait Greek 100 Protein Yogurt (Plain)
Yoplait’s Greek 100 Protein yogurt lives up to its name, with 20 grams of protein per serving, making it one of the highest-protein options on the market. It’s made with a combination of milk proteins, resulting in a thick texture. The plain version has a smooth, creamy taste, with a slight tang. This yogurt is ideal for those who want to boost their protein intake without added sugars. Nutritionists particularly recommend it for anyone seeking to manage their hunger or improve muscle recovery.
8. Wallaby Organic Whole Milk Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Wallaby Organic offers a whole-milk Greek yogurt that is creamy and rich in flavor. While it’s slightly higher in fat compared to non-fat or low-fat options, it provides a good balance of protein (12 grams per serving) and healthy fats. It’s made from organic milk and free from artificial additives, making it a great option for anyone who prefers a more natural yogurt with a fuller mouthfeel. It’s particularly popular among those who want a higher-calorie option that still offers nutritional value.
9. Brown Cow Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Brown Cow Greek yogurt stands out for its cream-top variety, where the cream rises to the top naturally, giving it a luxurious, rich texture. With 12 grams of protein per serving, it’s slightly lower in protein than some other Greek yogurts, but still offers significant nutritional benefits. It’s made with whole milk and free from artificial ingredients, making it a healthy indulgence. Nutritionists love it for its creamy texture and natural sweetness without added sugars.
10. Cabot Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Cabot Creamery is known for its quality dairy products, and their Greek yogurt is no exception. Made with milk from grass-fed cows, Cabot Greek yogurt has 15 grams of protein per serving. It has a smooth, thick texture and a balanced tanginess that isn’t overwhelming. It’s also available in both full-fat and low-fat versions, so you can choose according to your dietary needs. Nutritionists recommend this yogurt for anyone who wants to add high-quality protein to their diet without sacrificing taste.
11. Lifeway Organic Kefir (Plain)
Although technically not a Greek yogurt, Lifeway Organic Kefir deserves mention for its impressive probiotic content and high protein. Each serving contains 11 grams of protein and provides a creamy, drinkable consistency. It’s made with kefir grains, which offer a broader range of probiotic strains than regular yogurt. Lifeway kefir is ideal for those looking to add more probiotics to their diet while still enjoying a protein-packed option. It’s especially good for smoothies or as a morning drink.
12. Maple Hill Organic Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Maple Hill is a premium Greek yogurt made from 100% grass-fed milk. Each serving provides 15 grams of protein and is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. The full-fat version delivers a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness from the organic milk. Maple Hill’s commitment to sustainability and using only organic ingredients makes it a standout choice for environmentally conscious consumers who want a nutritious, high-protein yogurt.
13. Horizon Organic Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Horizon Organic Greek yogurt offers 12 grams of protein per serving and is made with milk from pasture-raised cows. As an organic option, it’s free from antibiotics and hormones. While it’s slightly lower in protein than some other brands, it still provides a solid dose of nutrition, along with beneficial probiotics. Horizon’s Greek yogurt is known for its smooth texture and mild flavor, making it an excellent choice for kids or those with more sensitive palates.
14. 365 by Whole Foods Market Greek Yogurt (Plain)
365 by Whole Foods Market offers a great value Greek yogurt that is both affordable and nutritious. Each serving contains 15 grams of protein, and the yogurt is available in both non-fat and full-fat versions. Made with high-quality ingredients and free from artificial flavors or sweeteners, 365 Greek yogurt is an excellent choice for those looking to stock up on nutritious snacks without breaking the bank.
15. Noosa Greek Yogurt (Plain)
Noosa Greek yogurt is a unique, Australian-style yogurt that’s known for its rich and smooth texture. While it has a slightly lower protein content compared to traditional Greek yogurts (around 10 grams per serving), it is packed with flavor and creamy goodness. Noosa’s yogurt is made with whole milk and real fruit, providing a sweet, indulgent treat that’s perfect for those who enjoy a sweeter yogurt option without added sugars.
Conclusion
The best Greek yogurt brands combine quality ingredients with impressive nutritional value. Whether you’re after a high-protein, organic, or rich and creamy option, there’s a Greek yogurt for everyone on this list. Brands like FAGE, Chobani, and Siggi’s offer a range of textures and protein levels, allowing you to choose the best fit for your dietary needs and taste preferences. With the added benefit of probiotics, these yogurts offer both delicious and healthy options for your daily routine.
FAQs
1. What makes Greek yogurt different from regular yogurt?
Greek yogurt is made by straining regular yogurt to remove excess liquid (whey), resulting in a thicker and creamier texture. It’s higher in protein compared to regular yogurt, making it a more filling and nutritious option. Greek yogurt also has a tangier flavor due to the straining process, and it typically contains fewer carbohydrates and more probiotics, supporting digestive health.
2. Is Greek yogurt good for weight loss?
Greek yogurt can be a great addition to a weight loss plan because it’s high in protein, which helps keep you full longer and prevents overeating. It’s also relatively low in sugar, especially if you choose plain varieties. Additionally, the probiotics in Greek yogurt can support gut health, which is important for overall well-being. Opt for low-fat or non-fat versions if you’re watching your calorie intake.
3. Can I eat Greek yogurt if I’m lactose intolerant?
Greek yogurt contains less lactose than regular yogurt due to the straining process, which removes some of the liquid where lactose is found. Many people with mild lactose intolerance find they can tolerate Greek yogurt better than regular yogurt. However, if you have a more severe sensitivity, you may want to opt for lactose-free Greek yogurt options or try plant-based alternatives made from almond or coconut milk.
4. How can I incorporate Greek yogurt into my diet?
Greek yogurt is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into your diet in many ways. You can enjoy it as a snack, mix it into smoothies, use it as a topping for oatmeal, or add it to baked goods. It can also be used in savory dishes like salad dressings, sauces, or as a substitute for sour cream in dips. Adding fresh fruit, honey, or nuts can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.