Averages based on 1,027 greek yogurt products in our database.
Greek Yogurt nutrient highlights
Protein
~10g per 100gGreek yogurt contains roughly double the protein of regular yogurt due to the straining process that removes whey. Protein content varies by fat level and brand.
Calcium
~110mg per 100gGreek yogurt provides calcium, though slightly less per serving than regular yogurt because some calcium is lost with the whey during straining.
Total Fat
~0-5g per 100gFat content ranges widely: non-fat versions contain <0.5g, low-fat around 2g, and whole milk Greek yogurt about 5g per 100g. Fat level does not affect processing score.
Calories
~59-97 per 100gCalorie count depends primarily on fat content and added sweeteners. Plain non-fat Greek yogurt averages around 59 calories per 100g; whole milk versions around 97.
Greek Yogurt processing scores by brand
15 greek yogurt products ranked by processing score (lowest first) from our analysis.
How does processing affect greek yogurt?
In our analysis, plain Greek yogurt with a short ingredient list (milk, live cultures) typically scores Level 1-2 (Minimally Processed to Processed). The straining process that defines Greek yogurt is a traditional mechanical separation, not industrial ultra-processing. However, many commercial Greek yogurts add thickeners (pectin, corn starch, gelatin), sweeteners, and artificial flavors that push scores to Level 3-4.
Flavored Greek yogurts show the widest range. Some brands use real fruit and minimal additions; others list 15-20 ingredients including modified food starch, sucralose, carrageenan, and artificial colors.
What should you look for on greek yogurt labels?
- 1Plain Greek yogurt should list milk and live active cultures. Some brands add milk protein concentrate or cream, which increases protein or fat but also raises the processing score.
- 2"Greek-style" yogurt is sometimes regular yogurt thickened with starches or gelatin rather than strained. Check for thickening agents in the ingredient list.
- 3Flavored Greek yogurts vary enormously, ranging from 4 ingredients (milk, cultures, fruit, sugar) to 20+ with artificial sweeteners, colors, and stabilizers.
- 4Zero-sugar Greek yogurts typically contain artificial or non-nutritive sweeteners (sucralose, stevia, monk fruit) and additional thickeners.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in Greek yogurt?
Plain Greek yogurt contains approximately 59-97 calories per 100g depending on fat content. A typical 170g (6oz) serving of plain non-fat Greek yogurt provides about 100 calories; whole milk versions about 165 calories. Flavored varieties with added sugars contain more.
How much protein is in Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt provides approximately 10g of protein per 100g, roughly double that of regular yogurt. A typical 170g (6oz) serving delivers about 17g of protein. Some brands add milk protein concentrate to boost protein content further.
Is Greek yogurt ultra-processed?
In our analysis, plain Greek yogurt with just milk and cultures scores Level 1-2 (Minimally Processed to Processed). Flavored varieties with added sugars, thickeners, artificial flavors, and colorings can score Level 3-4. The processing level depends heavily on the brand and flavor chosen.
What is the difference between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt?
Greek yogurt is strained to remove whey, resulting in a thicker texture, higher protein per gram, and lower carbohydrate content compared to regular yogurt. In our database, both types span the same range of processing scores because the straining step itself is not a major processing factor. Added ingredients drive the score.
Which Greek yogurt brands are least processed?
In our database, Greek yogurt products with the fewest ingredients (typically just milk and live cultures) score the lowest processing levels. Check the brand comparison table above for specific products and scores.
Does greek yogurt have lactose?
Greek yogurt contains lactose, but generally less than regular yogurt. The straining process removes some lactose along with the whey. Additionally, the live bacterial cultures in yogurt break down some lactose during fermentation. The exact lactose content varies by brand and production method. People with lactose sensitivity should consult a healthcare provider for individual guidance.
Is greek yogurt dairy?
Yes, greek yogurt is a dairy product made from cow's milk (or sometimes goat's or sheep's milk). It is produced by straining regular yogurt to remove whey, resulting in a thicker, higher-protein product. Non-dairy alternatives labeled "greek-style" are made from plant milks (coconut, almond, oat) and are a separate product category in our database.