Is Sheep Milk Yogurt Better Than Greek Yogurt?

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

Sheep's milk typically contains higher levels of fat, protein, and essential minerals than cow's milk. But does this translate to a definitive victory when comparing sheep milk yogurt versus the popular, high-protein Greek yogurt?

Quick Summary

This article provides a detailed comparison of sheep milk yogurt and Greek yogurt, evaluating their nutritional content, flavor profiles, and benefits for digestion to help you choose the right option.

Key Points

Nutrient Density: Sheep milk yogurt is naturally higher in total fat, protein, and essential minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium compared to cow's milk Greek yogurt.
Improved Digestibility: For those sensitive to cow's dairy, sheep milk yogurt may be easier to digest due to containing the A2 beta-casein protein and having smaller fat globules.
Rich vs. Tangy Flavor: Sheep milk yogurt offers a rich, creamy, and mildly sweet flavor, while Greek yogurt is known for its thick, dense, and tangy taste.
Straining Process: Greek yogurt is strained to achieve its thick texture and high protein content, but this process can remove some minerals like calcium.
Cost and Accessibility: Sheep milk yogurt is typically more expensive and less readily available than Greek yogurt, which can be found in most grocery stores.
Choose Plain Over Flavored: Regardless of the type, choosing plain yogurt is best to avoid the high levels of added sugar often found in flavored versions.

For many, yogurt is a daily dietary staple, but the vast array of options can be overwhelming. The rivalry between sheep milk yogurt and Greek yogurt (often made from cow's milk) is a common one, as both offer unique health benefits and flavor profiles. While Greek yogurt has dominated the market, sheep milk yogurt is gaining recognition for its digestibility and richer nutritional content. This comprehensive guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide which one is better for your individual needs.

Nutritional Showdown: Protein, Fat, and More

When we compare the nutritional facts, it's clear that the two yogurts start with different foundations. Greek yogurt's signature thickness is achieved by straining off the liquid whey, which concentrates the protein. A typical 6-ounce serving of plain, non-fat Greek yogurt contains approximately 16 grams of protein, a significant amount for muscle repair and satiety. However, this straining process removes some of the natural calcium and other minerals.

Sheep milk yogurt, conversely, begins with a milk base that is naturally richer in fat and protein than cow's milk. While the final protein content can vary by processing, a key difference lies in the nature of the nutrients. Sheep milk yogurt is notably richer in essential minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium. It also contains higher levels of certain healthy fats, including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has potential health benefits. The higher fat content, composed of smaller globules, may contribute to its easier digestibility for some people.

The Digestibility Dilemma: A2 vs. A1 Protein

For those with sensitivities to cow's dairy, digestibility is a major factor. The issue often lies with the A1 beta-casein protein found in most commercial cow's milk. When digested, this protein can release an inflammatory peptide that causes discomfort. Sheep milk, like human milk, contains only the A2 beta-casein protein, which many find much easier to digest.

Greek yogurt, despite having less lactose than regular yogurt due to straining, is not lactose-free unless specifically processed to be. While the live and active cultures help break down the remaining lactose, some individuals with severe intolerance may still experience symptoms. The smaller fat globules in sheep milk also aid in smoother digestion, putting less strain on the digestive system.

Taste and Texture: A Creamy Comparison

Beyond nutrition, the sensory experience is a deciding factor. Greek yogurt is renowned for its thick, dense, and characteristically tangy flavor. This tartness makes it an excellent base for savory dishes or a contrast to sweet toppings. Some may find its texture a bit too stiff or reminiscent of sour cream.

Sheep milk yogurt, by contrast, is known for a rich, creamy, and velvety-smooth texture. It often has a milder, slightly sweeter flavor than Greek yogurt, without the strong, gamey taste some associate with goat's milk. This natural sweetness and luscious mouthfeel make it a delightful treat, whether eaten plain or with minimal additions.

Potential Downsides to Consider

While sheep milk yogurt offers many benefits, it does have some potential downsides. It is often more expensive and can be more difficult to find than Greek yogurt, which is widely available in most grocery stores. For those monitoring their calorie and saturated fat intake, full-fat sheep milk yogurt is denser and higher in both.

Greek yogurt's primary pitfalls come with flavored varieties, which are often loaded with added sugars that counteract its otherwise healthy profile. It's also important for those with dairy sensitivities to remember that it is not lactose-free and still contains the A1 protein found in cow's milk. The large-scale production of Greek yogurt also produces a significant amount of acid whey, which poses an environmental disposal challenge.

Who Should Choose Which Yogurt?

Choose Sheep Milk Yogurt If: You have a sensitivity to cow's milk protein or lactose. Its naturally A2 protein and smaller fat globules make it easier to digest for many. You prefer a richer, creamier texture and a milder, sweeter taste. You're looking for a higher concentration of minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium.
Choose Greek Yogurt If: Your priority is a very high protein content in a single serving and you don't have cow's milk sensitivities. You enjoy a tangier, tarter flavor profile. You need a widely available, often more budget-friendly option.

Conclusion: The Best Yogurt is a Personal Choice

Ultimately, the question of whether is sheep milk yogurt better than Greek yogurt has no single answer; it depends on your health needs, digestive comfort, budget, and personal taste. While Greek yogurt remains a powerhouse for protein, sheep milk yogurt offers a compelling alternative, particularly for those with digestive sensitivities, due to its unique protein and fat composition. For the best of both worlds, read labels carefully and prioritize plain, unsweetened varieties to control your sugar intake and truly enjoy the natural benefits each yogurt has to offer. For more information on dairy and nutrition, consult resources like the U.S. Dairy industry website.


Feature	Sheep Milk Yogurt	Greek Yogurt (Cow's Milk)
Primary Milk	Sheep	Cow
Protein Content	Naturally higher in milk base, but concentration varies by process	Concentrated via straining, typically very high per serving
Fat Content	Higher fat percentage, with smaller globules and MCTs	Varies by fat level (full, low, non-fat); typically less fat than full-fat sheep milk yogurt
Digestibility	Easier to digest for many due to A2 protein and smaller fat globules	Lower in lactose due to straining, but contains A1 protein; tolerance varies
Mineral Density	Higher levels of calcium, zinc, and magnesium	Less calcium than regular yogurt due to straining
Taste Profile	Rich, creamy, mildly sweet	Thick, dense, and tangy
Cost	Generally more expensive	More affordable and widespread
Availability	Can be limited to specialty stores	Widely available in most supermarkets

Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. While sheep's milk has a higher native protein content than cow's milk, the straining process used to make Greek yogurt concentrates its protein, often resulting in a higher protein content per serving compared to many sheep milk yogurts.

No, sheep milk yogurt is not lactose-free. It does contain lactose, similar to cow's milk, but many people find it easier to digest due to its A2 protein structure and smaller fat globules.

Sheep milk yogurt is often a better option for people with sensitivities to cow's milk. It contains A2 beta-casein protein, which is less likely to cause digestive inflammation than the A1 protein found in most cow's milk.

No, sheep milk yogurt does not have the strong, gamey flavor that some associate with goat's milk. It is typically described as having a pleasant, clean, mildly sweet flavor profile.

Greek yogurt's signature thickness is the result of a straining process that removes a large portion of the liquid whey, concentrating the protein and creating a denser, creamier product.

Yes, full-fat sheep milk yogurt generally has a higher fat content than most cow's milk Greek yogurts. However, the fat globules in sheep milk are smaller and contain more medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are often easier to digest.

Some sources suggest that sheep farming has a lower environmental impact, requiring less land, water, and feed than cow farming. The large-scale production of Greek yogurt also produces a challenging waste byproduct called acid whey.