A Closer Look at the Milbona Greek Style Light Strawberry 4-Pack
The most commonly referenced 'Milbona Greek yogurt 4 pack' from Lidl is the 'Greek Style Light Strawberry Yoghurt'. Its ingredient list is more extensive than authentic Greek yogurt.
The Difference Between 'Authentic' and 'Greek Style'
Authentic Greek yogurt is made by straining regular yogurt to remove whey, resulting in a dense, high-protein product with milk and cultures as primary ingredients. 'Greek Style' yogurts, like the Milbona 4-pack, achieve a similar thickness using added thickeners and stabilizers instead of straining. This explains the longer ingredient list in 'Greek Style' varieties.
Why Additives and Thickeners Are Used
Additives such as modified maize starch and pectins provide the desired texture at a potentially lower cost and fat content. Sweeteners like Aspartame are used in 'light' versions to reduce sugar and calories.
Comparison Table: Milbona Varieties
| Feature | Milbona Greek Style Light Strawberry 4-Pack | Milbona Authentic Greek Yogurt (Tub) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Yogurt (Milk), Water, 8% Strawberries, Modified Maize Starch, Pectins, Lemon Juice, Aspartame, Black Carrot Concentrate, Flavouring | Pasteurized skimmed milk, Cream, Milk proteins, Live yogurt cultures |
| Production Method | Thickened with starches and stabilizers | Naturally strained to remove whey |
| Protein Content | Moderate | High |
| Sweetener | Contains Aspartame | Unsweetened |
| Added Fruit | Includes strawberry preparation | Plain |
What About Other Milbona 4-Packs?
Ingredient profiles will vary for other Milbona 4-pack flavours or types, such as high-protein versions. However, 'Greek Style' varieties are likely to use thickeners rather than straining. Always verify ingredients on the specific product packaging.
Conclusion
The ingredients in the Lidl Milbona Greek yogurt 4 pack, particularly the 'Greek Style Light Strawberry' variety, include dairy, fruit, modified starch, pectins, and aspartame. This differs from authentic Greek yogurt, which is naturally thickened through straining and has a shorter ingredient list. Understanding these distinctions helps consumers make informed choices. The ingredients in the Milbona Greek Style Light Strawberry 4-pack include yogurt (milk), water, 8% strawberries, modified maize starch, stabiliser, lemon juice, sweetener (Aspartame), black carrot concentrate, and flavouring. {Link: Open Food Facts https://uk-gd.openfoodfacts.org/product/4056489756590/greek-style-light-strawberry-yoghurt-milbona}