A Comprehensive Guide: Which Greek Yogurts Have No Lactose?

November 11, 2025 •

5 min read

With approximately 65% of adults worldwide experiencing some form of lactose intolerance, finding suitable dairy products can be a challenge. This guide reveals exactly which Greek yogurts have no lactose, providing options for those who want to enjoy the creamy, high-protein benefits without the digestive discomfort.

Quick Summary

This article details which Greek yogurt products are genuinely lactose-free, clarifying that most standard Greek yogurt contains less lactose but is not completely free of it. It covers specific dairy brands and plant-based alternatives and explains how the manufacturing process and ingredients make these options suitable for lactose-sensitive individuals.

Key Points

Lactose-Free vs. Low-Lactose: Standard Greek yogurt is low in lactose due to straining but is not lactose-free; specialized products are explicitly labeled as such.
Dairy-Based Options: Truly lactose-free Greek yogurts from dairy brands like Chobani Zero Sugar and Green Valley Creamery have lactase enzymes added to break down lactose.
Plant-Based Alternatives: For those avoiding all dairy, "Greek-style" products made from almond, coconut, or cashew milk from brands like Kite Hill and Silk are naturally lactose-free.
Check the Label: Always read the product label carefully for a clear "lactose-free" claim to ensure the product is suitable for your level of intolerance.
Probiotic Benefits: Many lactose-free and plant-based Greek yogurts still contain live and active cultures, offering the gut health benefits of probiotics.
Consider Your Sensitivity: Individuals with severe lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy should opt for plant-based versions, while those with mild intolerance may be able to manage with traditionally strained Greek yogurt.

Understanding Lactose in Standard Greek Yogurt

Many people are surprised to learn that standard Greek yogurt is not lactose-free, though it is significantly lower in lactose than regular yogurt or milk. The fermentation process, where milk is mixed with live and active bacterial cultures, begins the breakdown of lactose into simpler sugars (glucose and galactose). A key step in creating Greek yogurt is straining it multiple times to remove excess liquid whey. Since much of the lactose resides in the whey, this straining process effectively reduces the overall lactose content, which is why many individuals with mild intolerance can consume it without issues. However, this reduction is not complete, and some lactose remains, which can still cause digestive symptoms for those with moderate to severe intolerance.

The Importance of Reading Labels

For those with severe sensitivities, relying on the assumption that Greek yogurt is low enough in lactose can lead to discomfort. The lactose content can also vary by brand. Some brands may add milk powder or other ingredients to thicken the yogurt, which can unexpectedly increase the lactose level. Always check the nutrition label for a specific "lactose-free" claim, as well as the ingredients list, to ensure no hidden dairy-derived lactose has been added back into the product.

True Lactose-Free Greek Yogurt Brands

To create a truly lactose-free Greek yogurt, manufacturers employ a key technique: adding the lactase enzyme during the production process. This enzyme breaks down the remaining lactose into digestible simple sugars. The end result is a dairy-based yogurt that retains its traditional creamy texture and nutritional profile, but is completely free of lactose. This process makes these products a perfect choice for those who want real dairy without digestive side effects.

Some of the most prominent brands that offer genuinely lactose-free Greek yogurt products include:

Chobani Zero Sugar: This line of Greek yogurt products from Chobani is explicitly marketed as lactose-free and contains no sugar, making it a double-win for many consumers.
Green Valley Creamery: Green Valley offers a comprehensive line of lactose-free dairy products, including Greek yogurts. Their products are made with real dairy and lactase enzymes for excellent taste and texture.
Oikos Lactose-Free: Available in Canada, this Oikos line offers plain and other flavored Greek yogurts that are explicitly made without lactose, but with the same rich texture.
FAGE BestSelf Lactose-Free: The FAGE BestSelf line includes lactose-free versions of their popular Greek yogurt, allowing individuals with intolerance to enjoy its benefits.
Liberté Greek Lactose-Free: Another Canadian option, Liberté offers plain and vanilla lactose-free Greek yogurts, known for their classic straining process and creamy results.

Plant-Based Greek-Style Alternatives

For individuals with a dairy allergy or those following a vegan diet, plant-based alternatives offer a delicious way to enjoy a Greek-style yogurt experience. These products are naturally free of lactose since they are not made from milk.

Some popular plant-based Greek-style alternatives include:

Kite Hill Greek Style: Made with almond milk and soy, Kite Hill offers a non-dairy yogurt alternative with a thick, creamy consistency that mimics traditional Greek yogurt.
Silk Greek Style Yogurt Alternative: Silk offers Greek-style yogurt alternatives made with coconut milk, available in various flavors.
Forager Project Cashewgurt: This brand produces dairy-free yogurts using cashews, offering another naturally lactose-free option with probiotics.
Daiya Greek Yogurt Alternative: Made to be dairy and soy-free, Daiya provides a thick Greek-style product suitable for those avoiding multiple allergens.

Comparing Lactose-Free vs. Plant-Based Greek Yogurts


Feature	Dairy-Based Lactose-Free Greek Yogurt	Plant-Based Greek-Style Yogurt Alternatives
Lactose Content	0% (by adding lactase enzyme)	0% (naturally dairy-free)
Dairy Content	Yes (made from cow's milk)	No (made from nuts, soy, etc.)
Protein	Generally higher (natural milk protein)	Varies significantly by base ingredient
Texture	Very similar to traditional Greek yogurt	Tends to be smoother, less dense; varies by brand
Flavor	Classic dairy yogurt taste	Flavor can be influenced by base ingredient (e.g., coconut, almond)
Allergies	Not suitable for those with dairy allergies	Suitable for dairy allergies; check for other allergens like nuts or soy
Key Benefit	Allows dairy consumers with intolerance to enjoy dairy	Provides a completely dairy-free option for vegans and those with dairy allergies

How to Choose the Right Option for Your Needs

Choosing the right Greek yogurt depends on your specific dietary needs and sensitivities. If your only issue is lactose intolerance, a dairy-based, lactose-free Greek yogurt from brands like Chobani Zero Sugar, Green Valley Creamery, or FAGE BestSelf will provide the classic taste and high-protein benefits of traditional Greek yogurt. The addition of the lactase enzyme ensures a truly lactose-free experience without compromising on flavor or nutrients like calcium.

For those with a full dairy allergy, or for individuals pursuing a vegan diet, plant-based Greek-style alternatives are the ideal solution. Brands such as Kite Hill, Silk, and Forager Project use bases like almond, coconut, and cashew milk to create a yogurt-like product that is entirely dairy-free. While the nutritional profile and texture may differ from dairy yogurt, these options provide a way to enjoy a similar product with a clear conscience.

Regardless of your choice, be sure to check the product label for specific claims like "lactose-free" or "dairy-free" and look for the presence of "live and active cultures" if you are seeking probiotic benefits. A registered dietitian or healthcare professional can also help guide your decision, especially if you have significant dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

While traditional Greek yogurt is lower in lactose due to its straining process, it is not completely free of it and may not be suitable for everyone with lactose intolerance. Fortunately, modern food science and the rise of plant-based options provide excellent alternatives. Brands offering specifically labeled lactose-free dairy Greek yogurt, such as Chobani Zero Sugar and FAGE BestSelf, provide a traditional, dairy-based option, while plant-based "Greek-style" products from brands like Kite Hill and Silk offer a completely dairy-free experience. By understanding the manufacturing processes and paying close attention to product labels, consumers can easily find and enjoy a Greek yogurt that meets their nutritional needs and sensitivity level.

What to Look For: https://www.usdairy.com/news-articles/does-greek-yogurt-have-lactose

Note: The specific availability and varieties of these products may vary by region. Always check your local store's stock and labels.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, standard Greek yogurt is not lactose-free. While the straining process removes a significant amount of lactose, some remains. Only products specifically labeled "lactose-free" have had all lactose removed, typically by adding the lactase enzyme.

Dairy-based lactose-free Greek yogurt is made by adding the lactase enzyme to the milk. This enzyme breaks down the milk sugar (lactose) into simpler, more digestible sugars (glucose and galactose), effectively eliminating the lactose from the final product.

Yes, plant-based Greek-style yogurts are naturally lactose-free because they are not made from milk. They use alternative bases like almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew milk instead of dairy.

It is not recommended for individuals with severe lactose intolerance to consume traditional Greek yogurt, as the residual lactose could cause digestive symptoms. They should opt for explicitly labeled lactose-free products instead.

Several brands produce lactose-free Greek yogurt, including Chobani Zero Sugar, Green Valley Creamery, Oikos Lactose-Free, and FAGE BestSelf.

Yes, most lactose-free and plant-based Greek-style yogurts are cultured with live and active probiotics. Always check the label to ensure the presence of these beneficial bacteria.

A yogurt labeled "lactose-free" contains no lactose, while a "low-lactose" product has a reduced amount but still contains some. The straining process of Greek yogurt makes it low-lactose, but only a manufacturer's specific claim confirms it is truly lactose-free.