What Brand Has Full Fat Greek Yogurt? A Comprehensive Guide

Recent studies suggest that full-fat dairy products, including Greek yogurt, may be linked to a lower risk of certain cardiovascular issues. Knowing what brand has full fat Greek yogurt is key for those seeking a richer, more satiating texture and flavor, and there are many high-quality options available on the market.

Quick Summary

Several prominent brands, including Fage, Chobani, and Stonyfield, offer full-fat Greek yogurt, known for its rich and creamy texture. The best choice depends on personal taste, dietary needs, and brand availability. Options range from traditional to organic and grass-fed varieties.

Key Points

• Fage Total 5%: Fage is a leading brand known for its extremely thick and creamy full-fat Greek yogurt, popular for its rich texture and mild, milky flavor.

• Chobani Whole Milk: Chobani offers a whole milk, full-fat Greek yogurt that is thick, creamy, and made with natural, non-GMO ingredients.

• Stonyfield and Maple Hill: For organic options, Stonyfield provides a Greek Whole Milk yogurt from pasture-raised cows, while Maple Hill features a 100% grass-fed organic variety.

• Store Brands: Chains like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods offer their own high-quality, whole milk Greek yogurt, which can be a great value alternative.

• Benefits of Full Fat: Full-fat Greek yogurt is highly satiating, often contains no added sugars, and provides a richer flavor and texture than low-fat alternatives.

• Choosing Wisely: Look for a short, simple ingredient list—ideally just milk and live active cultures—to ensure you are getting a high-quality product without unnecessary additives.

Top Brands Offering Full Fat Greek Yogurt

For those seeking the rich, creamy taste and satisfying texture of whole milk Greek yogurt, several brands stand out. The popularity and availability of these brands can vary, but here are some of the most widely recognized options that provide a full-fat variety.

Fage Total 5% Greek Yogurt

Fage is one of the most recognizable names in Greek yogurt, and its Total 5% variety is a top contender in the full-fat category. Prized for its exceptional thickness and decadent flavor, it's a favorite for both eating on its own or incorporating into recipes. The texture is often described as fluffy and airy, yet profoundly creamy. Its ingredient list is famously short and natural, featuring only milk, cream, and live active cultures.

Chobani Whole Milk Plain Greek Yogurt

Chobani, another market leader, offers a Whole Milk Plain Greek Yogurt. This option is celebrated for its thick consistency and natural ingredients, with no artificial flavors or preservatives. It provides a generous amount of protein, making it an excellent, filling snack. Chobani's yogurt is made with locally sourced, non-GMO ingredients, appealing to consumers looking for clean-label products. It contains a variety of live and active cultures beneficial for gut health.

Stonyfield Organic Greek Whole Milk Yogurt

Stonyfield offers an organic Greek yogurt option for those who prefer dairy from pasture-raised cows. Their Greek Whole Milk Yogurt is packed with protein and serves as a versatile ingredient for cooking and baking. The texture is smooth, with a mild flavor that can easily be paired with fruit, honey, or granola. Being organic, it avoids the use of harmful pesticides and hormones, which is a key selling point for health-conscious consumers.

Maple Hill 100% Grass-Fed Organic Greek Yogurt

Maple Hill focuses on dairy from 100% grass-fed cows, resulting in a rich, flavorful, and all-natural Greek yogurt. Their full-fat version appeals to those who prioritize organic and sustainable farming practices. The flavor profile is clean and fresh, reflecting the high-quality milk used in its production.

Store Brands: Trader Joe's and Whole Foods 365

Many grocery chains also produce their own versions of full-fat Greek yogurt, which can offer great value. For example:

• Trader Joe's Whole Milk Plain Greek Yogurt: Made with whole milk, this is a "full fat" yogurt that offers great tang and texture. It's a reliable and budget-friendly choice for many shoppers.
• Whole Foods 365 Organic Plain Greek Yogurt: This organic whole milk option is praised for its impressive tang and silky texture, providing a fresh taste that stands out among competitors.

Comparison of Popular Full-Fat Greek Yogurt Brands

To help you decide which brand is right for you, here is a comparison of some of the top full-fat options based on key characteristics.

Brand	Key Characteristics	Texture	Flavor Profile	Considerations
Fage Total 5%	All-natural, high protein, no added sugar	Extremely thick, creamy, and decadent	Mild, milky, with a subtle tang	Widely available, considered a classic
Chobani Whole Milk	Natural, non-GMO, contains active cultures	Thick and creamy, triple-strained	Mild and versatile, less tangy than some	Excellent for cooking and everyday use
Stonyfield Organic	Organic, pasture-raised milk, high protein	Smooth and velvety, good for mixing	Mild, fresh, with a hint of floral notes	Excellent base for recipes, organic certification
Maple Hill 100% Grass-Fed	Certified 100% grass-fed and organic	Rich and thick, reflecting high-quality milk	Clean and fresh, with a rich flavor	Often a more premium-priced option
Trader Joe's Whole Milk	Store brand value, made with whole milk	Great tang and satisfyingly thick	Bright and tangy, a good staple	Budget-friendly option, good value

The Benefits of Choosing Full Fat Greek Yogurt

Choosing full-fat Greek yogurt over its low-fat or fat-free counterparts offers several advantages, from taste to nutritional value.

Richer Flavor and Texture

Full-fat Greek yogurt is made with whole milk, which results in a naturally rich, creamy, and satisfying texture. The higher fat content contributes to a more decadent mouthfeel and a less watery consistency compared to reduced-fat versions.

Increased Satiety

The fat and protein in full-fat Greek yogurt work together to help you feel fuller for longer. This can help with portion control and prevent overeating later in the day, making it a satiating snack or meal component.

No Added Sugars

Unlike many low-fat varieties, which often have added sugars to compensate for the flavor and texture lost by removing fat, plain full-fat Greek yogurt is often free of these unnecessary additives. It is crucial to check the ingredient label, but many top-tier brands keep it simple with milk and cultures only.

Potential Health Benefits

While long-standing dietary advice has favored low-fat dairy, modern research is challenging this perspective. Some studies suggest that consuming full-fat dairy, in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, may not increase the risk of heart disease and could even be linked to lower cardiovascular risks. Full-fat yogurt also contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) that are essential for the body.

How to Choose the Best Full Fat Greek Yogurt for Your Needs

• Read the Label: The best full-fat Greek yogurt will have a short and simple ingredient list: milk and live active cultures. Avoid brands with added sugars, artificial flavors, or unnecessary thickeners.
• Consider Organic: If avoiding pesticides and supporting sustainable farming is a priority, opt for organic varieties like Stonyfield or Maple Hill.
• Evaluate Texture and Flavor: Fage offers an exceptionally thick and creamy experience, while Chobani is often praised for its smooth texture. Taste-testing different brands can help you find the one that best suits your preferences.
• Purpose of Use: Consider whether you will be using the yogurt for snacking or cooking. A milder, creamier yogurt like Stonyfield may be ideal for a plain snack, while a tangier option might work better for savory dips or dressings.

Conclusion

Finding what brand has full fat Greek yogurt is a straightforward process, with several high-quality brands available to meet a variety of needs. Whether you prefer the classic creaminess of Fage, the organic purity of Stonyfield, or the budget-friendly tang of a store brand like Trader Joe's, there is a full-fat option for everyone. By prioritizing a short ingredient list and considering your flavor and texture preferences, you can find the perfect full-fat Greek yogurt to enjoy on its own or as a versatile ingredient in your kitchen. This delicious and satisfying dairy product provides a rich flavor, increased satiety, and a host of potential health benefits without the need for added sugars often found in low-fat alternatives.

Visit a resource for health-conscious consumers to learn more about the benefits of full-fat dairy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Greek yogurt has the highest fat content?

While fat content varies by brand, Fage Total 5% is a widely available option with a notable full-fat profile. The Greek Gods brand also offers a full-fat, Greek-style yogurt.

Is full fat Greek yogurt healthier than non-fat?

The 'healthier' option depends on your dietary goals. Full-fat yogurt offers a richer flavor and increased satiety, and may not increase cardiovascular risk in moderation. However, non-fat options are lower in calories.

Why is full-fat Greek yogurt so creamy?

The creaminess of full-fat Greek yogurt comes from using whole milk, which contains a higher percentage of milkfat. This, combined with the straining process that removes whey, results in a rich, thick, and velvety texture.

Can I cook with full fat Greek yogurt?

Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt is an excellent ingredient for cooking and baking. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it ideal for dips, marinades, dressings, and baked goods, offering a tangy alternative to sour cream.

Does full fat Greek yogurt have a lot of sugar?

Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt typically has no added sugars. The sugar content listed on the nutrition label is lactose, the natural milk sugar. Be sure to check labels, as flavored varieties will contain added sweeteners.

Are organic full fat Greek yogurts better?

Organic full-fat Greek yogurts, such as those from Stonyfield and Maple Hill, use milk from cows raised without pesticides or antibiotics. For some consumers, this higher standard of sourcing and the associated flavor profile is worth the premium price.

Where can I find full fat Greek yogurt?

Full-fat Greek yogurt is available at most major supermarkets. Brands like Fage and Chobani are widely distributed, while organic options like Stonyfield or Maple Hill can often be found at grocery stores like Whole Foods or natural food markets.