Greek yogurt vs. regular yogurt: what’s the difference?
In recent years, Greek yogurt has become increasingly popular in grocery stores and in our kitchens. But what makes it special? Not only is it smoother and creamier than other types of yogurt, but it is also well-loved for its impressive nutritional profile. Greek yogurt vs. regular yogurt: Oikos explains it all!
What is Greek yogurt?
Much like ordinary yogurt, Greek yogurt is a fermented dairy product. Smoother and thicker than traditional yogurt, it gets its unique profile from a slightly different production technique. And although it bears its name, this variety of yogurt is not exclusive to Greece! Believe it or not, it originated in the Middle East, where it has been used in traditional dishes for millennia.
A meticulous production process
Photo source Test: dairy industry
All yogurts are the result of fermenting milk by adding active bacterial cultures. In our case, Oikos varieties are made using two bacterial strains – Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus – which are found in all yogurts.
So, if every yogurt is produced in the same way, what is the difference between Greek and regular yogurt? The answer all boils down to filtration! Since Greek yogurt is filtered, it contains less water, which gives it its incredibly creamy texture. The longer the drainage period, the smoother and thicker the yogurt becomes. At the end of this process, we get the luxuriously creamy Greek yogurt we all know and love.
Each cup of Oikos is made from 100% Canadian cow’s milk, sourced from dairy farms across the country. Just one more reason to feel great about adding Greek yogurt to your shopping list!
Exploring The Difference Between Greek And Regular Style Yogurt
Now that you know more about the production of Greek yogurt vs. regular yogurt, you might be wondering why this product is so incredibly popular these days. Here are three things that distinguish Greek yogurt from any other variety:
1. A Texture Like No Other
One of the most notable differences between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt is its texture. Anyone who’s ever tried a spoonful of Greek yogurt knows that it’s richer, creamier, and thicker than other varieties. Oikos Greek yogurt is primarily made up of three ingredients:
- Milk,
- Active bacterial cultures,
- And—in some cases—cream (for a higher fat content).
Its creamy texture makes it an excellent companion to fruit and cereal at breakfast. It’s also wonderful in a blended smoothie or granola-topped smoothie bowl – the choice is yours! For more inspiration, check out our recipe ideas for Greek yogurt-based breakfasts.
2. Nutritional Value Of Greek Yogurt
From a nutritional perspective, there are a few important differences between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt:
- Higher protein content
One of the differences between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt is that Greek has a higher protein content. As we mentioned above, since this type of yogurt is drained, it has a more dense volume of protein compared to other varieties.
Since protein plays an important role in building strong muscles, Greek yogurt is, therefore, a great option for athletes, vegetarians, and flexitarians! As an added bonus, it’s also great at staving off hunger and keeping you full for longer.
- Lower sugar content
Due to its production process, plain Greek yogurt may have a lower sugar content than regular yogurt. It is therefore great for cooking (since it’s not too sweet and therefore won’t overpower other flavours), and can be used in both savoury and sweet recipes.
Oikos offers varieties made with 30% less sugar, containing just 7 grams of sugar per 100 grams of yogurt.
- Low-fat
The fat content of Greek yogurt depends on the type of milk used during production. But most of the time, it contains between 0% and 2% milk fat. Here’s the best part: even at 0% fat, the protein in Greek yogurt creates a perfectly creamy texture, so you can enjoy a low-fat and luxurious experience at the same time!
3. Cooking With Greek Yogurt
Traditionally used in oriental cooking, Greek yogurt has gradually been integrated into a wide variety of western dishes. Particularly popular in appetizers, sauces, smoothies, or desserts and well-loved for its nutritional value, Greek yogurt has become increasingly present in our kitchens!
In addition to being a great source of protein, Greek yogurt is also a great option if you are looking to replace fats in recipes! Among other things, it can be used as a substitute for:
- Butter and oil: in muffins, banana bread, and other dessert recipes;
- Cream cheese: one cup of creamy yogurt can replace one cup of cream cheese in all kinds of desserts, including cheesecake;
- Mayonnaise: a less salty and lower-fat alternative for your dip and sauce recipes;
- Sour cream: can be replaced with Greek yogurt in dips, tzatziki, or guacamole recipes, as well as in your soups!
Consult our quick and handy conversion chart to find the right proportions and integrate Oikos Greek yogurt into your cooking.
Oikos: A Greek Yogurt For Every Palate!
Now that you know more about the difference between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt, you’re well-equipped to choose the option that suits you the best!
Whether you prefer plain, fruity, or low-fat versions, we have a Greek yogurt with your name on it! Discover our complete range of Greek yogurts:
- Plain: can easily be integrated into almost any type of recipe
- Lactose-free: a good option for people who are lactose-intolerant
Our products are available in small or large sizes and in a variety of flavours to satisfy your taste buds. Be sure to check back often, since Oikos frequently releases limited edition flavours that you won’t want to miss!