Is Greek Gods Yogurt Greek Yogurt? A Look at the ‘Greek-Style’ Difference

January 5, 2026 •

4 min read

Did you know that Greek Gods yogurt is not a true Greek yogurt? While founded by individuals with Greek heritage, this popular brand is actually a 'Greek-style' product, using a unique process that distinguishes it from traditionally strained yogurts.

Quick Summary

Greek Gods yogurt is labeled as 'Greek-style,' meaning it is not traditionally strained. Instead, it uses thickeners like pectin, resulting in a creamier texture but lower protein content compared to authentic Greek yogurt.

Key Points

Not Traditionally Strained: Greek Gods yogurt is 'Greek-style,' meaning it does not use the traditional straining method to thicken.
Pectin is the Thickener: Instead of straining, Greek Gods uses a gelling agent called pectin to achieve its creamy consistency.
Lower Protein, Higher Carbs: Because it is not strained, Greek Gods has significantly less protein and more carbohydrates than true Greek yogurt.
Creamier, Milder Taste: The unique thickening process results in a smoother, less tangy flavor profile compared to traditionally strained products.
Founded by Greek-Heritage Individuals: The company was started by people of Greek heritage, but this does not mean the yogurt is made using traditional methods.
Nutritional Label is Key: Checking the nutritional label for protein and carbohydrate content is the best way to determine if a yogurt is traditionally strained or Greek-style.

The Core Difference: Straining vs. Thickening

Authentic Greek yogurt is made by straining regular yogurt to remove the whey, the watery part of milk. This process naturally concentrates the milk solids, resulting in a product that is denser, thicker, higher in protein, and lower in sugar and carbohydrates than regular yogurt. The straining also contributes to Greek yogurt's characteristically tangy flavor profile. This method is a key part of the tradition and is what defines true Greek yogurt.

In contrast, Greek Gods yogurt achieves its thick, creamy consistency by using a different method. Rather than straining, the company uses a "cup-set" process and adds thickeners, primarily pectin. This additive is a gelling agent found naturally in fruits and is commonly used to thicken jams and jellies. The result is a yogurt with a smooth, custard-like texture and a milder, less tangy flavor. This is why the product is legally labeled "Greek-style" rather than simply "Greek yogurt".

Nutritional and Textural Implications

The difference in production methods has significant nutritional and textural consequences. Authentic strained Greek yogurt offers a concentrated source of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake for muscle building or satiety. The straining process also removes some of the natural milk sugar (lactose) along with the whey, resulting in a product that is lower in carbohydrates.

Greek Gods, by avoiding the straining step, retains more of its whey. This means it typically contains about half the protein and twice the carbohydrates of a comparable serving of traditionally strained Greek yogurt. While still offering a dose of probiotics and calcium, its overall nutritional profile is closer to that of regular unstrained yogurt than true Greek yogurt. For consumers focused on macronutrients, this distinction is crucial.

Comparing Greek Gods to Traditional Greek Yogurt


Feature	Greek Gods (Greek-Style)	Traditional Greek Yogurt (Strained)
Thickening Method	Relies on thickeners like pectin, and a cup-set process.	Achieved by naturally straining out the excess whey.
Texture	Velvety smooth, custard-like, and generally less dense.	Thicker, denser, and sometimes firmer.
Protein Content	Significantly lower (e.g., 7g per serving).	Significantly higher (e.g., 15g+ per serving).
Carbohydrate Content	Higher, as straining does not remove whey.	Lower, due to the removal of whey and lactose.
Flavor Profile	Milder, creamier, and less tangy.	Distinctly tangy, with a more concentrated flavor.
Best For	Smooth recipes, those who prefer a sweeter, less tart taste.	Cooking, sauces, and eating plain for a protein boost.

Making Your Choice: Taste, Texture, or Nutrition?

Deciding between Greek Gods and traditional Greek yogurt ultimately comes down to personal preference and health goals. For many, the smoother texture and milder taste of Greek Gods is exactly what they are looking for. It avoids the tartness that some find off-putting in traditional Greek yogurt and is often sweetened with ingredients like honey. This makes it a popular and palatable choice for a simple breakfast or snack.

However, if your primary motivation for eating Greek yogurt is its high protein content and lower carbs, a traditionally strained brand is the better option. The nutritional disparity is not insignificant, especially for people managing their weight, blood sugar, or those incorporating it into a high-protein diet.

The Consumer's Perspective

Online forums and reviews show a clear divide in consumer opinion. Some loyal customers appreciate Greek Gods' unique creamy texture and milder flavor, citing it as a go-to for years. Others feel misled by the "Greek-style" labeling, expecting the nutritional benefits and thicker texture of a true strained yogurt. It's a testament to the importance of reading labels and understanding the difference in processing.

How to Choose Your Yogurt

To ensure you're getting the yogurt that best suits your needs, follow these steps:

Read the label: Look for the term "strained" or check the protein and carbohydrate counts. A higher protein-to-carb ratio generally indicates a traditionally strained product.
Check the ingredients: Look for additives like pectin or other thickeners. If they are listed, you are likely holding a Greek-style product.
Consider your goal: Are you seeking a high-protein, low-carb food, or do you prefer a milder, creamier taste? Your answer will guide your purchase.

As the market for yogurt continues to evolve, being an informed consumer is more important than ever. Knowing the difference between Greek Gods and traditionally strained Greek yogurt empowers you to make a choice that aligns with your taste preferences and nutritional goals.

In Conclusion

Is Greek Gods yogurt true Greek yogurt? The answer is no. It is a Greek-style yogurt that achieves its texture through added thickeners rather than the traditional straining method. This difference is fundamental, impacting the yogurt's texture, protein content, and flavor profile. While Greek Gods offers a delicious, creamy product enjoyed by many, consumers seeking the specific nutritional benefits of traditionally strained Greek yogurt should be aware of this key distinction.

For more information on the health benefits of authentic Greek yogurt, you can consult sources like Medical News Today.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference is the thickening method. Greek Gods is a 'Greek-style' yogurt that uses thickeners like pectin, while regular Greek yogurt is traditionally strained to remove whey, which naturally thickens it and increases its protein content.

No. Greek Gods has a different nutritional profile due to its production method. It has less protein and more carbohydrates per serving compared to traditionally strained Greek yogurt.

Greek Gods yogurt achieves its creamy texture and mild taste by using added cream and pectin as a thickener, rather than relying on the straining process that gives true Greek yogurt its characteristic tang.

It depends on the recipe. The added pectin in Greek Gods yogurt may cause it to behave differently in some recipes, especially baked goods, compared to a traditionally strained yogurt. For savory dips and toppings, it can often be a suitable substitute.

No, it is not. A typical serving of Greek Gods yogurt has a lower protein content (around 7-9 grams) compared to traditionally strained Greek yogurt, which can have 15 grams or more per serving.

No, the term can be misleading. Some brands, like Greek Gods, label their products as 'Greek-style' or achieve a thick texture with additives rather than straining, leading to different nutritional values and tastes.

Check the ingredients list for thickeners like pectin. Also, compare the nutrition facts, especially the protein and carbohydrate content. Authentically strained Greek yogurt will have higher protein and lower carbs per serving.