Is Arla skyr a healthy snack?

December 19, 2025 •

4 min read

With Icelandic skyr tracing its roots back over a thousand years, this thick, creamy dairy product has found a popular place in many diets. But is Arla skyr a healthy snack? The answer depends on the specific product and how you choose to enjoy it.

Quick Summary

Arla skyr is a highly nutritious, protein-rich, and low-fat dairy option when opting for the natural, unflavored variety. Flavored versions contain added sugars that reduce their health benefits, so checking labels is crucial.

Key Points

High in Protein: Arla skyr is exceptionally high in protein, which promotes satiety and supports muscle health.
Low in Fat: The natural, unflavored versions are fat-free or very low in fat, making them a great low-calorie snack option.
Check for Added Sugar: Flavored Arla skyr contains added sugars that can significantly increase its calorie and sugar content, so always read the label.
Rich in Probiotics: The live cultures in skyr can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
Choose Plain and Add Toppings: The healthiest way to consume Arla skyr is to choose the plain variety and add your own fruits, nuts, or seeds for flavor.
A Good Greek Yogurt Alternative: Skyr is thicker and often higher in protein than Greek yogurt, offering a comparable healthy option with a milder taste.

What is Arla Skyr?

Arla skyr is a product inspired by Icelandic dairy tradition, crafted with live cultures from pasteurized skimmed cow's milk. Unlike regular yogurt, skyr is strained significantly more to remove the whey, a process that concentrates the milk's nutrients. This results in a product with a remarkably thick, creamy texture, a high protein content, and a milder, less tangy flavor than Greek yogurt. The intensive straining process means it takes approximately four cups of milk to produce one cup of skyr, highlighting its nutrient density.

The Nutritional Benefits of Arla Skyr

Arla skyr offers several nutritional advantages, especially when consumed in its natural, unflavored form:

High in Protein: Plain Arla skyr is an excellent source of protein, with approximately 10 grams per 100g serving. This high protein content is vital for muscle repair, building, and maintaining a feeling of fullness, which can support weight management.
Low in Fat: Traditionally made from skimmed milk, most Arla skyr products are fat-free or very low in fat. This makes it a great option for those monitoring their fat intake while still wanting a satisfying snack.
Source of Calcium: As a dairy product, skyr is a good source of calcium, an essential mineral for maintaining strong, healthy bones and teeth.
Contains Probiotics: Like other fermented dairy products, skyr contains live and active cultures, or probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Versatile and Filling: The thick texture and high protein level make skyr very satiating. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for various meals and snacks to boost their nutritional value.

The Potential Pitfalls: Mind the Sugar

While plain Arla skyr is a very healthy choice, the health profile changes significantly for the flavored versions. Many fruit-flavored skyr products contain a considerable amount of added sugar to enhance their taste. Excessive sugar consumption is linked to various health issues, including weight gain and blood sugar spikes. For example, Arla's Natural Skyr has 4g of sugar per 100g (naturally occurring lactose), while the Strawberry flavor can have almost 7g per 100g, with added sugar. Therefore, it is essential to check the nutritional information on the label and choose unsweetened varieties whenever possible.

How Arla Skyr Compares to Greek Yogurt

Arla skyr and Greek yogurt are both popular high-protein dairy options, but they have some key differences. The following table provides a clear comparison to help you make an informed choice.


Feature	Arla Skyr (Natural)	Greek Yogurt (Nonfat)
Production	Made with specific Icelandic cultures, strained more extensively than Greek yogurt.	Strained to remove whey, but typically less intensely than skyr.
Texture	Thicker, creamier, and denser than Greek yogurt.	Thick and creamy, but generally not as dense as skyr.
Protein	Generally slightly higher protein content per serving due to more intensive straining.	High in protein, though some specific brands may have slightly more or less than skyr.
Fat Content	Traditionally fat-free (made from skim milk) unless cream is added.	Available in a broader range of fat contents, from nonfat to whole milk.
Lactose	Contains less lactose due to the heavy straining process, which may be better tolerated by those with mild sensitivities.	Can contain more lactose than skyr.
Taste	Milder, less tangy flavor than Greek yogurt.	Tangier and more acidic than skyr.

Tips for Enjoying Arla Skyr as a Healthy Snack

To maximize the health benefits of Arla skyr, consider these serving suggestions:

Opt for Plain Skyr: Choose the natural, unsweetened version to avoid added sugars. You can naturally sweeten it yourself.
Add Fresh Fruit: Top plain skyr with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or other fruits to add natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.
Mix in Healthy Fats: Stir in a tablespoon of nuts, seeds (like chia or flax), or a drizzle of honey to add healthy fats and extra flavor.
Create a Savory Dip: Use plain skyr as a protein-rich, low-fat alternative to sour cream or mayonnaise in dips. Mix with herbs, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Use in Smoothies: Add a scoop of skyr to your morning smoothie for a creamy texture and a powerful protein boost.

Potential Considerations: Allergies and Intolerances

While skyr is a great option for many, it is not suitable for everyone. As a dairy product, it contains milk proteins (casein and whey) and lactose. Individuals with a milk protein allergy or a vegan diet must avoid skyr entirely. For those with lactose intolerance, the intensive straining process removes much of the lactose, making it easier for some to digest small to moderate amounts compared to regular milk. However, it's always best to test tolerance with a small serving first.

Conclusion: A Healthy Snack with a Caveat

To conclude, is Arla skyr a healthy snack? Yes, when you choose the plain, natural, or unsweetened variety. Its high protein and low fat content, coupled with beneficial probiotics, make it a nutrient-dense and satiating option for managing weight and supporting overall health. However, the inclusion of added sugars in flavored versions can undermine these benefits, so reading the nutrition label is crucial. By opting for plain Arla skyr and customizing it with wholesome additions like fruit and nuts, you can easily create a delicious and genuinely healthy snack. For more information on the health benefits of fermented dairy, an authoritative source is a useful resource. For example, see Healthline's article on Skyr for additional details on its general benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arla skyr is an Icelandic-style dairy product that is strained more extensively than Greek yogurt, resulting in a denser, thicker texture. It also typically has a milder, less tangy flavor and can be higher in protein per serving, depending on the brand and fat content.

Yes, plain Arla skyr can be excellent for weight loss. Its high protein content helps you feel full longer, which can reduce overall calorie intake. The low fat and low-calorie nature of the plain version also makes it a great choice for calorie-controlled diets.

Flavored Arla skyr products often contain significant amounts of added sugar, which can counteract many of the health benefits. While they are still a source of protein, it is healthier to choose plain skyr and add your own natural flavors.

Yes, Arla skyr contains live bacterial cultures, which act as probiotics that can support digestive health and contribute to a balanced gut microbiome.

The intensive straining process removes much of the lactose, so many people with mild lactose intolerance can consume moderate amounts of skyr without issues. However, individuals with more severe intolerance should be cautious and test their tolerance with a small amount first.

Yes, Arla skyr is a versatile ingredient. Its thick, creamy texture makes it an ideal substitute for sour cream, mayonnaise, or even Greek yogurt in recipes for dips, sauces, smoothies, or baking.

To choose the healthiest option, always check the label for the ingredient list and sugar content. Opt for the plain or natural version with no added sugars. If you prefer a sweetened product, it's best to add your own natural sweeteners like fruit or a drizzle of honey.