Yogurt is a beloved dairy product enjoyed by millions around the world for its creamy texture and health benefits. Traditional unstrained yogurt, made using simple ingredients like milk and live cultures, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Unlike Greek yogurt, which is often strained for a thicker texture, unstrained yogurt retains its natural consistency, offering a smooth and creamy mouthfeel.
Rich in protein, probiotics, and essential nutrients, unstrained yogurt supports digestive health and provides a delicious way to enhance your diet. Whether you prefer whole milk, organic options, or even goat milk, there’s a variety of unstrained yogurts to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 11 traditional unstrained yogurts, helping you discover the best options available for your daily enjoyment.
1. FAGE Total Greek Yogurt
FAGE Total Greek Yogurt is one of the most popular traditional unstrained yogurt brands worldwide. Originating from Greece, it is known for its thick, creamy texture and tart taste. The yogurt is made from simple ingredients, such as milk and live active cultures, which contribute to its rich flavor. FAGE Total Greek Yogurt stands out because it is produced using the traditional method of straining, which results in its signature creamy consistency without any additional additives.
It is available in different fat content options, such as 0%, 2%, and 5%, catering to different dietary preferences. This yogurt is rich in protein, making it a great choice for those seeking to add more protein to their diet. It is also a great source of probiotics, which contribute to gut health. Whether enjoyed on its own or used in recipes, FAGE Total Greek Yogurt remains a top choice for yogurt lovers.
2. Stonyfield Organic Whole Milk Yogurt
Stonyfield Organic Whole Milk Yogurt is a great option for those who prioritize organic products. Made from whole milk sourced from pasture-raised cows, this yogurt is produced without any artificial additives or preservatives. The brand follows traditional yogurt-making methods, allowing the live cultures to ferment and naturally thicken the yogurt. The result is a rich, creamy texture with a slightly tangy taste.
Stonyfield prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, sourcing ingredients from organic farms and ensuring that its packaging is environmentally friendly. This yogurt is also a good source of calcium and protein, promoting bone health and supporting muscle maintenance. Stonyfield Organic Whole Milk Yogurt is perfect for those who want to enjoy a wholesome and delicious treat that supports both their health and the environment.
3. Chobani Whole Milk Yogurt
Chobani Whole Milk Yogurt is a well-known yogurt brand that has gained popularity due to its delicious taste and high-quality ingredients. Made from non-GMO whole milk, this yogurt is thick and creamy with a smooth, rich flavor. Chobani follows a traditional yogurt-making process, allowing the milk to ferment naturally with the help of live and active cultures. This method results in a yogurt that is not only delicious but also packed with probiotics, which promote digestive health.
Chobani Whole Milk Yogurt comes in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to fruit-filled options, making it easy to find a variety that suits personal preferences. The brand also offers a low-fat and non-fat version for those looking for healthier alternatives. Whether consumed on its own or paired with fruit and granola, Chobani is a delicious and nutritious yogurt option.
4. Siggi’s Icelandic Style Yogurt
Siggi’s Icelandic Style Yogurt, also known as Skyr, is a traditional Icelandic yogurt that has become a favorite in the United States. It is made from skim milk, but it is still very thick and creamy due to the traditional straining process. Siggi’s yogurt is known for its high protein content and low sugar levels, making it a great choice for those following a high-protein or low-sugar diet.
The yogurt is made with simple ingredients, including milk, live cultures, and a small amount of fruit for flavoring. Siggi’s yogurt is also rich in calcium, making it beneficial for bone health. It is available in a wide variety of flavors, including strawberry, blueberry, and mixed berry, as well as a variety of plain options for those who prefer to add their own toppings. Siggi’s yogurt combines the rich tradition of Icelandic yogurt-making with a modern twist, offering a delicious, nutrient-packed snack.
5. Yoplait Original Yogurt
Yoplait Original Yogurt is a popular choice for those who enjoy a variety of flavors in their yogurt. Known for its creamy consistency and smooth texture, Yoplait Original is made from high-quality milk and live cultures. While it is not as thick as Greek yogurt, it still offers a satisfying mouthfeel with a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Yoplait uses traditional yogurt-making methods, but with a twist of modern convenience.
It offers a wide selection of flavors, including strawberry, peach, and blueberry, which are loved by both children and adults. The yogurt is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones and immune system support. Yoplait is widely available and is often seen as a budget-friendly option, making it a go-to choice for those looking for an everyday yogurt with reliable taste.
6. Maple Hill Creamery Organic Yogurt
Maple Hill Creamery Organic Yogurt is another excellent option for those who seek organic products. Made from whole milk sourced from grass-fed cows, Maple Hill Creamery offers a yogurt that is rich in flavor and free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. The yogurt is produced using traditional methods, allowing it to develop a rich and creamy consistency that pairs well with various toppings.
Maple Hill Creamery prides itself on its commitment to sustainable farming practices and organic certification, ensuring that its products meet the highest standards of quality and environmental responsibility. This yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, all of which contribute to overall health. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a bit of honey or fruit, Maple Hill Creamery Organic Yogurt is a delicious and nutritious choice.
7. Brown Cow Cream Top Yogurt
Brown Cow Cream Top Yogurt is a premium, full-fat yogurt that offers a rich, creamy texture. It is made from whole milk and cream, which results in a luxurious consistency that is thicker than most regular yogurts. Brown Cow’s yogurt is made with live active cultures, contributing to a natural, tangy flavor and promoting digestive health. One of the distinguishing features of Brown Cow yogurt is its signature cream top, which adds an extra layer of richness and indulgence to the product.
It is available in a variety of flavors, including vanilla, strawberry, and peach, making it easy to find a flavor that suits your taste. Brown Cow is also known for its commitment to using milk from cows that are not treated with antibiotics or hormones, making it a great choice for those who prioritize high-quality, natural ingredients.
8. Redwood Hill Farm Goat Milk Yogurt
Redwood Hill Farm Goat Milk Yogurt offers a unique alternative to traditional cow’s milk yogurt. Made from goat’s milk, it provides a rich, creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor that many people find more digestible than cow’s milk yogurt. Redwood Hill Farm uses traditional yogurt-making methods and live cultures to create a product that is thick, smooth, and high in protein.
The yogurt is also a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health, and is available in a variety of flavors such as plain, vanilla, and blueberry. Goat’s milk is naturally lower in lactose than cow’s milk, making this yogurt a suitable option for those with mild lactose intolerance. Redwood Hill Farm also prides itself on its sustainable farming practices and commitment to animal welfare, ensuring that the goats are raised in a healthy, humane environment.
9. Tillamook Whole Milk Yogurt
Tillamook Whole Milk Yogurt is a high-quality yogurt made from fresh, local milk. The company is known for its commitment to using simple, natural ingredients and traditional methods to produce yogurt that is creamy, thick, and delicious. Tillamook yogurt is made with live and active cultures, which provide probiotics to support digestive health. The yogurt has a smooth, rich texture and a mildly tangy flavor that many consumers find enjoyable.
Tillamook’s whole milk yogurt is available in a variety of flavors, including classic strawberry and vanilla, as well as seasonal varieties. This yogurt is a great source of calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious option for those seeking to boost their daily intake of dairy products. Whether enjoyed by itself or as part of a recipe, Tillamook Whole Milk Yogurt is a flavorful and nutritious choice.
10. Liberty Dairy Whole Milk Yogurt
Liberty Dairy Whole Milk Yogurt is a premium yogurt that is made from hormone-free, grass-fed cows. The yogurt is known for its thick, creamy texture, which is a result of the traditional straining process. Liberty Dairy uses high-quality ingredients to ensure that each cup of yogurt is rich in flavor and packed with nutrients.
The yogurt is available in a variety of flavors, including plain, honey, and vanilla, which makes it easy to find a flavor that suits individual preferences. Liberty Dairy yogurt is also a great source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, all of which contribute to overall health. The company is committed to sustainability and animal welfare, ensuring that its cows are treated with care and that the yogurt is produced using environmentally responsible practices. For those who prefer a high-quality, locally sourced yogurt, Liberty Dairy Whole Milk Yogurt is an excellent choice.
11. Happy Cow Yogurt
Happy Cow Yogurt is a traditional unstrained yogurt made from high-quality, organic ingredients. The yogurt is produced using simple methods and live cultures, resulting in a creamy texture and a mild, tangy flavor. Happy Cow Yogurt is available in a variety of flavors, such as plain, vanilla, and fruit-infused options, catering to a wide range of tastes. The yogurt is made with whole milk, which contributes to its richness and satisfying consistency.
Happy Cow also prioritizes the health of its cows, ensuring that they are raised in a stress-free, humane environment. The yogurt is rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics, all of which are essential for maintaining good health. Whether eaten on its own, mixed with granola, or used in recipes, Happy Cow Yogurt offers a delicious and wholesome snack.
Conclusion:
Incorporating traditional unstrained yogurt into your diet is an excellent way to enjoy both flavor and health benefits. These yogurts offer a creamy texture, natural taste, and a wealth of probiotics to support digestive wellness.
Whether you’re opting for Greek yogurt, organic varieties, or goat milk alternatives, there’s a yogurt on this list to meet every need. Choose a high-quality yogurt from the brands we’ve highlighted and enjoy a nutritious snack or addition to your meals. With so many options, finding your favorite is just a spoonful away!
1. What is traditional unstrained yogurt?
Traditional unstrained yogurt is made from milk and live cultures without the process of straining to remove the whey, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
2. Is unstrained yogurt healthier than strained yogurt?
Unstrained yogurt retains more of its natural consistency and nutrients, making it a good choice for those seeking a richer texture and more natural probiotics.
3. Can I eat unstrained yogurt if I’m lactose intolerant?
While unstrained yogurt contains lactose, the probiotics may help digest lactose more easily. However, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
4. Which is the best unstrained yogurt?
The best unstrained yogurt depends on personal preference, but popular brands like FAGE, Stonyfield, and Siggi’s are known for their quality and rich flavor.