Tag: Dahi vs yogurt

Despite looking and tasting similar, curd and yogurt are distinctly different dairy products, with their main distinction lying in the bacterial cultures used for fermentation. While many use the terms interchangeably, particularly in the Indian subcontinent where curd is known as 'dahi', understanding the true differences is key to appreciating their unique culinary and health properties.

Yes, dahi is indeed a fermented food, a traditional and popular staple across the Indian subcontinent. Originating from the Sanskrit word 'dadhi', meaning 'sour milk', dahi's production relies on the natural process of bacterial fermentation.

According to the USDA, a 100g serving of plain curd (dahi) contains approximately 70 calories. This fermented dairy product is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in India, prized for its impressive nutritional value and numerous health benefits.

According to a 2025 study published by Metropolis India, commercially prepared yogurt provides a more consistent and higher count of standardized probiotic strains compared to homemade dahi. This makes the question of whether is dahi healthier than yogurt more complex than a simple yes or no, as the answer depends on preparation, specific nutritional profiles, and individual health goals.