Key findings
- 1Plain yogurt is one of the oldest and simplest fermented foods
- 2In our analysis, the yogurt category, flavored varieties included, averages a Processing Score of 6.1, which is Level 3
- 3Plain Greek yogurt is still just milk and cultures despite the extra straining step
- 4Flavored yogurts can contain more sugar per serving than ice cream
Why is Yogurt Level 3 on average?
Yogurt-making is simple fermentation: milk is heated, cooled, inoculated with Lactobacillus and Streptococcus cultures, and incubated for 4-12 hours. Greek yogurt adds a straining step to remove whey. The ultra-processing happens in flavored varieties that add sugar (up to 20g per serving), artificial fruit preparations, modified food starch, pectin, carrageenan, and artificial colors.
How 6,995 yogurt products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Yogurt brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a yogurt label
- 1
Plain yogurt should list only: milk, cream (optional), live active cultures
- 2
Greek yogurt adds a straining step, so check it still has just milk and cultures
- 3
Flavored yogurts: compare sugar content, since plain has ~4-7g (natural lactose) vs 15-25g in flavored
- 4
Watch for yogurts listing "modified food starch" or artificial sweeteners
Which ingredients should you watch for?
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Frequently asked questions
Is Greek yogurt ultra-processed?
Plain Greek yogurt is not ultra-processed: it is milk fermented with cultures and then strained. Flavored Greek yogurt with added sugars and thickeners is more processed. Search Greek yogurt to see its own average.
Is flavored yogurt ultra-processed?
Many flavored yogurts are far more processed than plain yogurt because of added sugars, artificial flavors, modified starches, and colorings. Plain yogurt with fresh fruit added at home is a less processed alternative.
Guide · Dairy & Alternatives
The Complete Dairy & Alternatives Guide
Processing analysis, least-processed picks, and what to watch for.
Read guide