What Kind of Yogurt Is Plant-Based?

January 13, 2026 •

2 min read

According to a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, plant-based yogurts contain significantly less sugar and more fiber on average than their dairy counterparts. Understanding what kind of yogurt is plant-based involves exploring the rich diversity of nuts, grains, and legumes used to create creamy, satisfying alternatives to traditional dairy.

Quick Summary

This article explores the wide range of plant-based yogurts made from bases like soy, coconut, almond, and oat, detailing their unique textures and nutritional profiles for consumers seeking dairy-free options.

Key Points

Diverse Bases: Plant-based yogurt is made from various non-dairy sources.
Varying Nutrition: Nutritional content differs greatly by base.
Probiotics Included: The fermentation process uses live, active cultures.
Potential Nutrient Gaps: Plant-based varieties can be naturally lower in protein, calcium, and vitamin B12.
Consider Additives: Many commercial versions use thickeners.
High Fiber, Less Sugar: Many plant-based yogurts contain more fiber and less total sugar than dairy yogurts.
Homemade Option: Making yogurt at home is a simple way to control ingredients.

Popular Bases for Plant-Based Yogurt

Plant-based yogurt has evolved significantly, now offering a diverse range of options made from various non-dairy sources. Like traditional yogurt, these alternatives are often made using live, active cultures for fermentation, contributing to a tangy flavor and potential gut health benefits.

Soy Yogurt

Soy was an early and continues to be a popular base, valued for its high protein content which can be comparable to dairy yogurt. It typically has a smooth texture and provides a complete protein source.

Coconut Yogurt

Often made from coconut milk or cream, coconut yogurt is known for its creamy, rich texture and high fat content. It is naturally lower in sugar and carbohydrates, but checking ingredient labels for added thickeners is advisable.

Almond Yogurt

Almond yogurt offers a mild, nutty flavor and is often low in saturated fat and sugar. Some research indicates that almond-based yogurts can be quite nutrient-dense. It generally has less protein compared to soy or dairy options.

Oat Yogurt

Oat yogurt is gaining popularity due to its mild taste and creamy texture. It contains soluble fiber called beta-glucans, which are associated with heart health. This base is naturally low in saturated fat and suitable for those with soy or nut allergies.

Cashew Yogurt

Cashew yogurts are appreciated for their creamy texture and naturally sweet profile.

Comparison of Plant-Based Yogurt Types

A quick look at the characteristics of popular plant-based yogurts is available on {Link: Frontiers in Nutrition https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1195045/full}.

Factors to Consider When Buying

When selecting plant-based yogurt, keep the following in mind:

Fortification: Many plant-based yogurts are fortified with calcium and Vitamin D. Check the label.
Live Cultures: Ensure the product contains live, active cultures for probiotic benefits.
Added Sugar: Opt for plain, unsweetened varieties.
Ingredients: Be aware that thickeners may be used.

Homemade Plant-Based Yogurt

Making plant-based yogurt at home is an accessible process. It typically involves a plant-based milk and a probiotic starter. The steps include heating and cooling the milk, adding the starter, and allowing the mixture to ferment and then chill.

Conclusion

The variety of plant-based yogurts available offers appealing dairy-free options. These yogurts provide a range of textures, flavors, and nutritional profiles. When choosing a plant-based yogurt, consider factors like fortification, the presence of live cultures, and added sugar content. For a detailed nutritional comparison, refer to the study published in {Link: Frontiers in Nutrition https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1195045/full}.

Frequently Asked Questions

Plant-based yogurt is made by fermenting various non-dairy milks, such as those derived from soy, almonds, coconuts, cashews, and oats, using live and active cultures.

Nutritional profiles vary significantly. Many plant-based yogurts have less sugar and sodium and more fiber, but often contain less protein, calcium, and potassium than dairy unless fortified.

Soy yogurt generally offers the highest protein content among plant-based options.

Yes, most plant-based yogurts contain live and active cultures (probiotics) from non-dairy sources.

Consider your nutritional priorities and taste preferences. Look for plain or unsweetened varieties and check for fortification.

No, homemade plant-based yogurt can be made with as few as two ingredients: a plant-based milk and a probiotic starter. The process involves heating, cooling, mixing, and fermenting.

For best results, use thicker plant-based milks like soy, cashew, or coconut. Grain-based milks like oat are also possible but may require thickeners.