Core Dairy and Protein Base
At the heart of Ratio's cultured dairy snacks are the milk-based ingredients that form their creamy foundation. Unlike traditional yogurt, which uses standard milk, Ratio products leverage advanced filtration techniques to concentrate protein and reduce sugar.
- Cultured Pasteurized Ultra-Filtered Nonfat Milk: This is a key ingredient in many Ratio products, including the high-protein varieties. The ultra-filtration process removes much of the lactose (milk sugar) and water, resulting in a dairy base with a significantly higher protein concentration.
- Cultured Pasteurized Milk: In addition to the ultra-filtered variety, standard cultured pasteurized milk is also used to achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
- Whey Protein Concentrate: To further boost the protein content, whey protein concentrate is added, contributing to the impressive 25g of protein found in some versions.
- Milk Fat: Depending on the specific Ratio product, milk fat may be included to enhance texture and richness.
Live and Active Cultures
All Ratio products contain live and active yogurt cultures, the beneficial bacteria responsible for fermenting the milk. These cultures are essential for producing a cultured dairy snack and are often associated with gut health benefits. The specific cultures used typically include L. bulgaricus and S. thermophilus.
Fats and Stabilizers
Ratio adds specific fats and stabilizers to its products to achieve a creamy texture and maintain product consistency. These ingredients also help with the keto-friendly macro profile of some versions.
- Sunflower Oil and/or Avocado Oil: For their low-carb, keto-friendly versions, Ratio incorporates oils like high oleic sunflower oil or avocado oil. These healthy fats contribute to a smooth texture and align with low-carb dietary needs.
- Carrageenan: A common food additive derived from red seaweed, carrageenan is used as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps prevent ingredient separation and maintains the product's uniform, creamy consistency.
- Guar Gum and Gellan Gum: Similar to carrageenan, these gums serve as stabilizers and thickening agents, contributing to the overall mouthfeel of the yogurt.
Sweeteners and Flavors
To deliver a great taste without high levels of sugar, Ratio utilizes a combination of natural flavors and low-calorie sweeteners.
- Natural Flavor: The specific flavor profile of each Ratio product is achieved through natural flavors, such as vanilla, strawberry, or key lime. This broad term can include a range of compounds extracted from natural sources.
- Sucralose: A popular artificial sweetener, sucralose is a primary ingredient in many Ratio products. It provides sweetness without adding carbohydrates or calories. The Environmental Working Group has noted that this product contains sucralose.
- Erythritol and Stevia Sweetener: Some varieties may use alternative sweeteners like erythritol or stevia to reduce sugar content, offering a more naturally derived sweetness.
- Beet Juice Concentrate and Other Colors: For colored varieties like strawberry, beet juice concentrate and other vegetable concentrates may be used to provide natural coloring.
A Comparison of Ratio and Traditional Yogurt Ingredients
| Ingredient Category | Ratio Yogurt/Dairy Snack | Traditional Yogurt (e.g., Plain) |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy Base | Ultra-filtered nonfat milk, whey protein concentrate, milk fat | Pasteurized milk, milkfat |
| Protein Content | Significantly higher (e.g., 25g per serving) | Typically lower (e.g., 6g per serving) |
| Sugar/Carbs | Much lower (e.g., 3g sugar) | Higher, with naturally occurring lactose |
| Sweeteners | Primarily Sucralose, Erythritol, Stevia | Sugar, fruit purees, sweeteners |
| Additives | Carrageenan, gums, added oils, natural flavors | Often minimal, sometimes fruit, flavorings |
| Texture | Creamier and thicker due to added protein and thickeners | Varies from thin to thick (like Greek yogurt) |
A Complete List of Ingredients by Flavor
For specific information on each Ratio product, it is best to check the product label, as formulations can vary. The following list gives a general overview of the core components for popular flavors based on information from the brand and retailers:
- Vanilla High Protein: Cultured Pasteurized Ultra-Filtered Nonfat Milk, Cultured Pasteurized Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate, Nonfat Milk, Sunflower Oil, Sucralose, Natural Flavor, Carrageenan.
- Strawberry High Protein: Cultured Pasteurized Ultra-Filtered Nonfat Milk, Cultured Pasteurized Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate, Nonfat Milk, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavor, Beet Juice Concentrate (for color), Sucralose, Carrageenan.
- Blueberry High Protein: Cultured Pasteurized Ultra-Filtered Nonfat Milk, Cultured Pasteurized Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate, Nonfat Milk, Sunflower Oil, Black Carrot Juice and Blueberry Juice Concentrate (for color), Sucralose, Carrageenan, Natural Flavor.
- Key Lime High Protein: Cultured Pasteurized Ultra-Filtered Nonfat Milk, Cultured Pasteurized Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate, Nonfat Milk, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavor, Carrageenan, Sucralose, Spirulina Extract and Turmeric (for color).
Conclusion: Mindfully Selected Components
Ratio yogurt's unique ingredient list reflects its specific nutritional goals: high protein, low sugar, and compatibility with low-carb and keto-friendly diets. By using ultra-filtered milk, whey protein, healthy fats, and low-calorie sweeteners, the brand distinguishes itself from traditional yogurt offerings. Understanding what are the ingredients in Ratio yogurt empowers consumers to make informed decisions that align with their dietary needs, whether they are tracking macros or simply looking for a high-protein snack. While some ingredients like sucralose may raise questions for some consumers, the brand's commitment to delivering specific nutritional ratios is evident in its carefully selected components.
For more detailed information, consumers can also visit the official Ratio Food website at https://ratiofood.com/.
The Function of Ratio's Ingredients
- Ultra-Filtered Milk: Concentrates protein and removes lactose, reducing sugar content.
- Whey Protein Concentrate: Increases the protein content for macro-conscious diets.
- Live Cultures: Ferments the milk, providing beneficial bacteria.
- Low-Calorie Sweeteners: Provides sweetness without added sugar or excess carbs.
- Natural Flavors and Colors: Creates the specific taste and appearance of different varieties.
- Stabilizers (Carrageenan, Gums): Ensures a smooth, creamy, and consistent texture.
- Healthy Fats: Adds richness and fat content for keto-friendly options.