Is Greek Yogurt Considered Dairy Product? The Definitive Answer

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

According to research from the dairy industry, Greek yogurt is a cultured, strained dairy product made from milk. This means that Greek yogurt is considered a dairy product, despite its thicker consistency and lower lactose content compared to regular yogurt.

Quick Summary

Greek yogurt is a strained dairy product made from milk, containing lactose and milk proteins. Its production process removes some whey, resulting in a thicker texture and lower lactose content than regular yogurt, but it is not dairy-free. Options exist for those with dairy allergies or intolerances.

Key Points

Is a Dairy Product: Greek yogurt is made from milk and is therefore a dairy product.
Not Dairy-Free: Despite a different production process, Greek yogurt is not dairy-free and is not suitable for those with milk allergies.
Lower in Lactose: The straining process used to make Greek yogurt removes much of the liquid whey, which lowers its lactose content compared to regular yogurt.
More Tolerable for Some: Individuals with mild lactose intolerance may find Greek yogurt easier to digest due to its reduced lactose levels and live bacterial cultures.
Higher in Protein: Compared to regular yogurt, Greek yogurt contains significantly more protein because the straining process concentrates the milk solids.
Dairy-Free Alternatives Exist: For those who need to avoid all dairy, there are excellent plant-based options made from soy, coconut, almond, and oat milk.
Check for Added Thickeners: Be aware that products labeled as 'Greek-style' may use thickeners instead of the traditional straining process and may not have the same nutritional benefits.

Understanding Greek Yogurt's Dairy Origins

At its core, Greek yogurt is a dairy product, just like milk, cheese, and butter. The dictionary defines dairy as "containing or made from milk," and Greek yogurt's primary ingredient is, and always has been, milk. The misconception that it might be non-dairy stems from its unique production process and the resulting nutritional profile, particularly its lower lactose content.

The Production Process: Straining for a Thicker Consistency

Unlike regular yogurt, Greek yogurt undergoes an extra step: straining. After the milk is cultured and fermented, it is strained to remove excess liquid whey. This process serves a few key purposes:

Concentrates Nutrients: Removing the liquid whey concentrates the milk solids, resulting in a product with significantly higher protein content.
Thickens the Texture: The straining process is what gives Greek yogurt its signature thick, creamy texture.
Reduces Lactose: Since lactose is primarily found in the liquid whey, straining removes a considerable amount of it, though it does not eliminate it entirely.

Greek-Style vs. Traditional Greek Yogurt

It is important to differentiate between true Greek yogurt and products marketed as "Greek-style" yogurt. Genuine Greek yogurt achieves its thickness through the traditional straining process, whereas Greek-style versions may add thickeners like gelatin, corn starch, or milk protein concentrate to mimic the texture without the same level of nutritional concentration. For those with sensitivities, this distinction is crucial, as the ingredients can vary significantly.

The Greek Yogurt and Lactose Connection

While Greek yogurt is a dairy product, its lower lactose content makes it a more tolerable option for many with lactose intolerance. However, it's not a solution for those with a true milk allergy, which is an immune response to milk proteins, not the sugar lactose.

Key factors affecting lactose tolerance:

Lower Lactose Levels: On average, Greek yogurt contains less lactose than regular yogurt or milk, often around 4 grams per 6-ounce serving, compared to milk's 12 grams.
Beneficial Probiotics: The live and active cultures (probiotics) in Greek yogurt help digest the remaining lactose, further aiding those with mild lactose intolerance.
Individual Tolerance: A person's ability to tolerate Greek yogurt depends on their degree of lactose intolerance. For some, a small portion is fine, while others may still experience symptoms.
Lactose-Free Options: For those with severe intolerance, many brands now offer specifically lactose-free Greek yogurt alternatives.

Comparison: Greek Yogurt vs. Regular Yogurt

To better understand how Greek yogurt's dairy origins manifest, let's compare it directly to regular yogurt.


Feature	Greek Yogurt	Regular Yogurt
Production	Strained to remove liquid whey	Fermented but not strained
Texture	Thick, creamy, and dense	Thinner, looser, and sometimes watery
Protein Content	Significantly higher (nearly double)	Lower than Greek yogurt
Lactose Content	Lower due to straining	Higher than Greek yogurt
Calcium Content	Slightly lower due to straining	Higher than Greek yogurt
Carbohydrate Content	Lower than regular yogurt	Higher than Greek yogurt
Flavor	Tangier and more acidic	Milder and sweeter

Greek Yogurt in Modern Diets and Recipes

Because it is a versatile dairy product, Greek yogurt is widely used in both sweet and savory dishes. Its thick consistency makes it an excellent, lower-fat substitute for sour cream, mayonnaise, or heavy cream in sauces, dips, and baked goods.

Delicious Ways to Use Greek Yogurt

Savory Sauces: A perfect base for a healthier version of tzatziki or raita.
Creamy Dips: Create a protein-packed dip for vegetables by mixing with herbs and spices.
Breakfast Bowls: Top with berries, granola, and a drizzle of honey for a satisfying start to your day.
Smoothies: Add a scoop to any smoothie for a protein boost and creamy texture.
Baking: Substitute for buttermilk in recipes for pancakes, muffins, or cakes for extra moisture.

Conclusion

To put it plainly, the answer to the question "is Greek yogurt considered dairy product?" is an unequivocal yes. It is made from milk, which firmly places it in the dairy category. However, its specialized straining process gives it unique characteristics that distinguish it from other dairy products like regular yogurt, including higher protein content and lower lactose levels. For those with dairy allergies, Greek yogurt is still off-limits, but individuals with mild lactose intolerance may find it more digestible due to its reduced lactose and the presence of live cultures. With a growing market of lactose-free Greek yogurt and plant-based alternatives, there are options available for almost everyone to enjoy this versatile food. The key is understanding its origins and how its production affects its composition to make the best dietary choices for your needs.

Dairy-Free Greek Yogurt Alternatives

For those who must avoid dairy, a variety of plant-based products effectively mimic Greek yogurt's thick texture and tangy flavor.

Soy Yogurt: Often has a protein content closest to traditional Greek yogurt.
Coconut Yogurt: Known for its rich creaminess, though it can be higher in fat.
Almond Yogurt: Offers a milder, nutty flavor and a smooth texture.
Cashew Yogurt: Creates a very creamy and rich consistency, perfect for dips.
Oat Yogurt: Another popular option, providing a satisfying texture for many uses.

Always check labels to ensure these alternatives are fortified with nutrients like calcium and to watch for added sugars.

Choosing the Right Yogurt for Your Lifestyle

Ultimately, deciding on the right yogurt comes down to your personal health goals, dietary restrictions, and taste preferences. If you seek a high-protein, filling snack and can tolerate some lactose, traditional Greek yogurt is an excellent choice. If lactose is a concern, but dairy is not a strict no-go, a low-lactose or lactose-free variety might be the answer. For those following a vegan diet or managing a dairy allergy, the plant-based alternatives provide a delicious solution to enjoy the benefits of yogurt without any dairy at all. Both dairy and non-dairy options offer valuable nutrients and can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Greek yogurt is not suitable for people with a milk allergy because it is made from milk and contains milk proteins, which are what trigger allergic reactions.

Yes, Greek yogurt contains lactose. However, the amount is significantly lower than in regular yogurt or milk because the straining process removes most of the liquid whey, which contains much of the lactose.

Many people with mild lactose intolerance can tolerate Greek yogurt due to its lower lactose content and the live cultures that help break down the remaining lactose. It is best to start with a small portion to test individual tolerance.

Authentic Greek yogurt is strained to naturally thicken it and increase its protein content. Greek-style yogurt, on the other hand, may be thickened with additives like starch or gelatin instead of the traditional straining process.

Yes, many companies now produce plant-based alternatives to Greek yogurt made from ingredients like soy, coconut, almond, and oat milk. These are suitable for those who avoid dairy completely.

Greek yogurt is higher in protein and lower in sugar and carbohydrates than regular yogurt, which can be beneficial for satiety and blood sugar control. However, regular yogurt tends to have more calcium. The healthiest option depends on individual dietary needs.

No, the fat content does not change whether Greek yogurt is dairy. Whether it's made with whole milk, low-fat milk, or skim milk, the base ingredient is still milk, making it a dairy product.