What are the yogurt drinks? A complete guide to cultured beverages

December 11, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Allied Market Research, the global yogurt drink market was worth an estimated $34 billion in 2021, showcasing a strong consumer demand for these convenient and healthy beverages. These cultured milk products offer a world of flavor and health benefits beyond the traditional cup of yogurt.

Quick Summary

Yogurt drinks are fermented milk beverages, rich in probiotics, that come in diverse forms like lassi, kefir, and ayran, each with unique flavors and textures.

Key Points

Yogurt Drinks Explained: These are fermented milk beverages, not just thick yogurt, with a thinner, drinkable consistency.
Regional Varieties: Popular types include Indian Lassi, Middle Eastern Ayran, and probiotic-rich Kefir from the Caucasus.
Probiotic Power: Rich in live and active cultures, yogurt drinks support a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
DIY Convenience: Many simple recipes allow you to create customized, healthy yogurt drinks at home in minutes.
Taste and Texture: Yogurt drinks can range from sweet and fruity to savory and salty, with consistencies varying from thick to watery.
Health Benefits: Regular consumption can assist with bone health, immunity, weight management, and hydration.
Kefir vs. Lassi: Kefir contains both bacteria and yeast for fermentation, giving it a broader probiotic profile and more tang than the bacteria-only fermented lassi.

Yogurt drinks, or drinkable yogurts, are a global phenomenon with a long history rooted in accidental discovery. The process of fermenting milk to create a drinkable, longer-lasting product likely began thousands of years ago in warm climates. While the word 'yogurt' has Turkish origins, the practice of fermenting milk for consumption is ancient and widespread. From the thick, creamy Lassi of India to the tangy, effervescent Kefir, these beverages are cherished for their refreshing qualities and health benefits.

The Diverse World of Yogurt Drinks

The landscape of yogurt drinks is incredibly varied, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the basic formula of fermented milk. What makes these beverages so special is not only their taste but also their rich history and cultural significance.

Lassi: The Classic Indian Refresher

Lassi is a traditional yogurt-based drink from the Indian subcontinent, particularly popular in the Punjab region. Made by blending yogurt with water, it has a consistency similar to a smoothie. Lassi can be either sweet or savory:

Sweet Lassi: Flavored with sugar, honey, rosewater, or fruits like mango, strawberry, or banana. A popular summer treat and dessert. A classic mango lassi is made by blending mango pulp with yogurt and a touch of cardamom.
Savory Lassi: A refreshing beverage made with salt, cumin, black pepper, and sometimes mint. Known as chaas or buttermilk in some parts of India, it is a common digestive aid after a heavy meal.

Kefir: The Probiotic Powerhouse

Originating in the Caucasus Mountains, kefir is a fermented milk drink made with kefir grains—a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts. This unique combination of microorganisms results in a tangy, slightly sour drink with a thin, effervescent quality.

Wide Probiotic Spectrum: Kefir contains a broader range of beneficial bacteria and yeasts than traditional yogurt, making it a highly effective probiotic.
Nutrient-Rich: It is a good source of calcium, protein, and B vitamins.
Versatile: Often enjoyed plain, it can also be sweetened with fruit or honey to make a delicious and healthy smoothie.

Ayran & Doogh: The Salty Savory Sips

Ayran (Turkish) and Doogh (Iranian) are savory yogurt drinks popular across the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. They are made by mixing yogurt, water, and salt, sometimes with the addition of mint. They are known for their cooling properties, especially in hot climates.

Ayran: A simple, salty beverage often served with grilled meats or kebabs in Turkey.
Doogh: A carbonated version of a yogurt drink in Iran, often flavored with mint.

Other Notable Cultured Drinks

Yakult: A well-known sweetened probiotic milk beverage from Japan.
Fura da Nono: A fermented millet and yogurt drink from Nigeria, often blended for a creamy texture.
Drinkable Greek Yogurt: Brands like Chobani offer low-fat Greek yogurt drinks with added protein and fruit flavors.

Health Benefits of Drinking Yogurt

Beyond their great taste, yogurt drinks are celebrated for a number of health-promoting properties, particularly when they contain active, live cultures. The benefits vary depending on the specific type and any added ingredients, but generally include:

Digestive Health and Probiotics: The live bacteria in many yogurt drinks help balance the gut microbiome, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, and reduce issues like bloating and constipation.
Improved Bone Health: Many yogurt drinks are a good source of calcium, a mineral essential for strengthening bones and teeth.
Immunity Boost: Probiotics can help stimulate the immune system, and some drinks are fortified with additional vitamins and minerals like zinc and selenium to further support immunity.
Weight Management and Satiety: The protein content in yogurt drinks helps you feel full for longer, which can help suppress appetite and assist in weight management.
Hydration: Plain or savory yogurt drinks are excellent for hydration, especially in hot weather, offering electrolytes along with liquid.

Comparison: Lassi vs. Kefir


Feature	Lassi	Kefir
Origin	Indian Subcontinent (Punjab)	Caucasus Mountains
Fermentation	Bacteria only	Bacteria and yeast
Texture	Thicker and creamier	Thinner, sometimes slightly effervescent
Flavor Profile	Can be very sweet or salty/savory	Tangy and sour
Probiotic Diversity	Contains several bacterial strains	Contains more microbial strains (up to 36)
Best For...	A rich, dessert-like treat or cooling digestive	A wide-spectrum probiotic boost

Easy Homemade Yogurt Drink Recipes

Creating your own yogurt drinks is simple, cost-effective, and allows for complete control over ingredients, especially added sugars. Here are a couple of basic recipes to get you started.

How to Make a Basic Yogurt Smoothie

Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 cup frozen or fresh fruit (e.g., mango, berries), 1/2 cup milk or water, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional).
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a blender. Start on a low speed and increase gradually until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Make a Classic Savory Lassi

Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 cup cold water, a pinch of salt, 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder.
Instructions: Blend the yogurt and water until smooth. Add salt and cumin powder and blend for a few more seconds. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprig of mint if desired.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Beverage

Whether you’re seeking a boost of probiotics for better gut health, a cooling and hydrating refreshment, or a delicious and protein-packed snack on the go, the world of yogurt drinks offers something for everyone. Their versatility, from ancient savory blends to modern fruity concoctions, demonstrates their enduring appeal. With the ability to easily make your own tailored versions at home, you can enjoy these cultured beverages as a flavorful and functional addition to your daily diet. Their continued growth in popularity reflects a broader trend towards healthier, convenient, and functional food choices.

For further reading on the history of these versatile foods, explore Wikipedia's extensive list of yogurt-based dishes and beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many yogurt drinks are probiotic, but it is important to check the product label for 'live and active cultures.' Some heat-treated varieties may not contain the beneficial bacteria.

A yogurt drink is typically a cultured, fermented milk product that is thinner and drinkable, while a smoothie is a thicker, blended beverage that combines fruits, vegetables, and liquids, which may or may not include yogurt.

Some yogurt drinks, particularly kefir, have lower lactose levels due to the fermentation process, which breaks down lactose. However, individual tolerance varies, and checking with a doctor or opting for non-dairy alternatives is advisable.

Plain, unsweetened yogurt drinks can be beneficial for weight management because their protein content promotes satiety and reduces overall calorie intake. However, highly sweetened versions can be high in sugar and calories.

A classic savory yogurt drink, like ayran or salty lassi, is made by simply blending plain yogurt with water and adding salt. Spices like cumin or fresh herbs like mint can be added for extra flavor.

Yes, many non-dairy alternatives like almond, coconut, oat, or soy milk can be used to make yogurt drinks, often with specific non-dairy cultures. Many brands now produce plant-based drinkable yogurts.

Both are healthy, but Kefir often contains a wider variety of probiotic strains and yeasts, while Lassi is typically thicker and creamier. The 'healthier' option depends on personal dietary goals and preferences.

Since yogurt drinks are made from milk, they inherit a high calcium content. Calcium is a crucial mineral for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.