Core Dairy and Fruit Ingredients
At the heart of any yogurt are its core components, which provide the base for the product. In the case of Light and Fit peach yogurt, these include nonfat milk and real fruit.
- Cultured Nonfat Milk: This is the primary ingredient, providing the creamy base and protein. The culturing process, which involves adding active yogurt cultures, turns milk into yogurt by fermenting lactose into lactic acid.
- Water: Water is added to adjust the yogurt's consistency and moisture level.
- Peaches: These provide the fruit flavor and small fruit pieces found in the yogurt.
Sweeteners and Flavoring Agents
To achieve its signature taste without high sugar content, Light and Fit relies on a combination of sweeteners and flavor enhancers.
- Cane Sugar / Fructose: Depending on the specific variety (Original vs. Greek), either cane sugar or fructose is used in small amounts for a touch of sweetness.
- Sucralose and Acesulfame Potassium: These are artificial, non-caloric sweeteners that contribute the bulk of the product's sweetness profile. Sucralose is derived from sugar, while acesulfame potassium is a common sweetener blend component.
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: These are added to enhance and standardize the peach flavor, ensuring consistency across every cup.
Thickeners and Stabilizers
To achieve the desired texture and prevent separation, the yogurt includes several thickeners and stabilizers.
- Modified Food Starch: This ingredient helps to thicken the yogurt and create a smoother, more consistent texture.
- Kosher Gelatin: This is used to add body and stability to the yogurt, preventing the liquid whey from separating from the milk solids. Some Greek varieties may not include gelatin.
- Pectin: Found in the Zero Sugar version, pectin is another natural thickener derived from fruits.
- Guar Gum: A natural gum used as a thickener and stabilizer in the Zero Sugar version.
Acidity Regulators and Preservatives
To maintain its fresh taste and prolong shelf life, Light and Fit contains several acid-based ingredients and preservatives.
- Malic Acid: A natural fruit acid used to enhance the tart flavor profile and act as a preservative.
- Sodium Citrate: This is added as a preservative and pH buffer to maintain the yogurt's acidity level.
- Potassium Sorbate: Used in some varieties, this is a common food preservative that helps inhibit the growth of mold and yeast.
Coloring Agents
- Annatto Extract: This natural food coloring, derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, is responsible for the pale yellow-orange color of the yogurt.
Active Cultures
- Yogurt Cultures L. Bulgaricus & S. Thermophilus: These are the live and active cultures essential for fermenting the milk into yogurt and are present in all varieties.
Ingredient Comparison: Light and Fit Peach Yogurt vs. Light and Fit Zero Sugar Peach
| Feature | Light and Fit Peach (Original/Greek) | Light and Fit Zero Sugar Peach |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Cane Sugar or Fructose, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium | Stevia Leaf (Reb M), Sucralose, Lactase |
| Thickener | Modified Food Starch, Kosher Gelatin | Pectin, Guar Gum |
| Dairy Base | Cultured Grade A Non Fat Milk, Water | Cultured Grade A Ultra-Filtered Non Fat Milk, Skim Milk, Water |
| Flavoring | Natural and Artificial Flavors | Natural Flavors |
| Coloring | Annatto Extract | Fruit & Vegetable Juice (from concentrate) |
| Calories (per 5.3 oz) | 70-80 | 50 |
Conclusion
Examining what are the ingredients in Light and Fit peach yogurt reveals a combination of core dairy and fruit components, carefully selected sweeteners, and several additives for texture, flavor, and shelf-life. The use of nonfat milk, peaches, and active cultures is standard for yogurt production. The inclusion of low-calorie sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium allows the product to maintain its low-calorie profile, while thickeners such as modified food starch and stabilizers like gelatin ensure a consistent texture. The specific ingredients can vary slightly depending on whether it is the original, Greek, or Zero Sugar version, so checking the nutritional label for the specific product is always the most accurate method. Overall, it is a low-fat, low-calorie, and high-protein snack, though it is considered moderately processed due to the additives. https://www.danoneawayfromhome.com/food-service-products/dannon-light-fit-peach-5-3-oz/
