Which yogurt has bifidobacterium lactis? A guide to probiotic-rich options

October 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that not all yogurts contain beneficial probiotics? For those seeking specific strains for gut health, a key question is Which yogurt has bifidobacterium lactis? We delve into the brands and products that incorporate this well-researched probiotic strain to help you make an informed choice for your nutritional diet.

Quick Summary

This article explores specific brands and products containing the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis. It provides details on identifying probiotic-rich yogurts by checking labels, comparing various options, and understanding the distinct health benefits of this key bacterium.

Key Points

Activia is a prime example: Dannon's Activia is well-known for its specific Bifidobacterium animalis lactis strain, linked to digestive comfort.
Look for specific strain names: Products with added probiotics, like those containing Bifidobacterium lactis, will list the specific strain on the label, often in the ingredients list.
Stonyfield Organic uses BB-12: Stonyfield Organic yogurts often contain the well-researched probiotic strain Bifidobacterium BB-12.
Not all 'live cultures' are probiotics: While all yogurt is made with live cultures, only those with specific, added strains qualify as probiotic yogurts with targeted health benefits.
Consistency is key: To receive the benefits of Bifidobacterium lactis, consistent, regular consumption as part of a balanced diet is recommended.
Consider kefir for wider diversity: Fermented milk drinks like kefir typically contain a wider variety of probiotic strains than yogurt, offering broader support for your gut microbiome.

What is Bifidobacterium lactis?

Bifidobacterium lactis ($B. lactis$) is a type of probiotic, or "good" bacteria, that lives in the human intestines. It belongs to a larger group of bacteria known as bifidobacteria, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. When consumed in adequate amounts, probiotics like $B. lactis$ provide numerous health benefits to the host, including aiding digestion and supporting immune function. The survival of probiotics through the harsh acidic environment of the stomach is a critical factor for their effectiveness, which is why brands often utilize specific, resilient strains.

Identifying Probiotic Yogurts with B. Lactis

Not all yogurt is created equal when it comes to probiotic content. While all yogurt requires live cultures for fermentation, these are not necessarily the specific strains known as probiotics. To ensure you are getting Bifidobacterium lactis, you must know what to look for on the product label. It is not enough to see a label that says "contains live and active cultures"; true probiotic yogurts will list specific, health-promoting strains.

How to read the label:

Look for specific strain names: Check the ingredients list for mentions of Bifidobacterium lactis, often abbreviated as B. lactis. Some brands use proprietary names, such as Activia's Bifidobacterium animalis lactis DN-173 010.
Check the CFU count: For a probiotic to be effective, it must be present in sufficient quantities, measured in Colony-Forming Units (CFUs). While not always listed, a reputable brand will often provide this information.
Avoid excessive sugar: High sugar content can counteract the benefits of probiotics. Opt for plain, unsweetened varieties whenever possible and add your own fruit or natural sweeteners.

Brands that Contain Bifidobacterium Lactis

Several yogurt and fermented dairy brands offer products featuring this beneficial probiotic strain. Here are some of the most prominent options:

Activia (Danone): Arguably the most well-known brand for probiotic yogurt, Activia specifically highlights its exclusive strain, Bifidobacterium animalis lactis DN-173 010 (also called Bifidus Regularis). It is backed by clinical studies and is marketed for its ability to help reduce minor digestive discomfort when consumed regularly. Activia offers various product lines, including fruit-flavored cups and drinks.
Stonyfield Organic: This brand includes the well-researched strain Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 in some of its products, such as the Stonyfield Organic Whole Milk Probiotic Yogurt. Their products also contain other beneficial cultures, offering a diverse probiotic profile.
Chobani: Certain Chobani products, particularly their probiotic yogurt drinks, include Bifidobacterium lactis among their listed probiotic cultures. As with any product, it's essential to check the specific label of the Chobani item you're purchasing, as not all their products contain this strain.
Siggi's: This Icelandic-style skyr (strained yogurt) brand uses heirloom cultures in its products. Some varieties explicitly list Bifidobacterium lactis on the label, providing a high-protein, low-sugar option.
Yoplait: Some Yoplait yogurt varieties, especially those marketed with probiotic benefits, may contain Bifidobacterium lactis. The exact strain and presence can vary by product and region, so checking the label is crucial.

Comparison of Yogurt Options with Bifidobacterium Lactis

To help you compare, here's a table of common yogurt types and brands containing B. lactis:


Feature	Activia	Stonyfield Organic	Chobani Probiotic Drinks	Siggi's Skyr
B. lactis Strain	Bifidobacterium animalis lactis DN-173 010	Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12	May contain Bifidobacterium lactis	May contain Bifidobacterium lactis
Typical Protein	Varies by product line	High, especially in whole milk products	Varies, usually higher in drinks	Very high, due to straining
Consistency	Creamy	Creamy to thick, depending on product	Drinkable	Extra thick and rich
Typical Sugar	Varies; offers options with no added sugar	Varies; offers plain, low-sugar options	Offers zero sugar options	Generally low in sugar
Primary Benefit	Digestive comfort	General gut and immune support	Quick, on-the-go probiotic dose	High-protein probiotic snack

The Bigger Picture: Beyond Just One Probiotic

While seeking out specific strains like Bifidobacterium lactis is valuable, it is important to remember that a balanced approach is key to gut health.

A holistic approach to gut health includes:

Dietary diversity: A wide variety of probiotic strains is more beneficial than just focusing on one. Other probiotic-rich foods like kefir often contain a broader spectrum of beneficial bacteria and yeasts.
Prebiotics: These are the dietary fibers that feed the good bacteria in your gut. A diet rich in prebiotic fibers from sources like bananas, oats, and onions is crucial for a thriving microbiome.
Consistency: The benefits of probiotics from yogurt and other fermented foods cease 2–3 weeks after discontinuation of regular consumption, emphasizing the importance of daily intake.
Lifestyle factors: Stress reduction, exercise, and adequate sleep also play significant roles in maintaining a healthy gut.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Yogurt for Your Needs

Ultimately, selecting a yogurt that has Bifidobacterium lactis requires careful label reading and consideration of your individual dietary goals. Brands like Activia, Stonyfield Organic, Chobani, and Siggi's offer reliable options containing this probiotic. Activia stands out for its well-researched strain and digestive health focus, while Stonyfield provides an organic option, and Chobani offers convenient probiotic drinks. Remember to seek out products with low added sugar for the greatest health benefit. Incorporating a variety of fermented foods, along with a high-fiber diet, provides the best support for your gut microbiome. For more in-depth information, you can review research on this strain from authoritative sources like the National Institutes of Health.

Sources:

WebMD. Bifidobacterium Animalis Subsp. Lactis - Uses, Side Effects....
National Cancer Institute. Bifidobacterium lactis/Lactobacillus acidophilus/inulin....
Danone Activia. For Health Care Professionals - Activia Probiotic Yoghurt..

Frequently Asked Questions

Bifidobacterium lactis is a probiotic known for supporting digestive health by modulating the composition of gut flora. It can also help reduce minor digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas, and may support immune function.

You can tell if a yogurt has Bifidobacterium lactis by carefully reading the ingredients list and looking for specific strains. In addition to the general 'live and active cultures' statement, the label will explicitly list the strain, often as Bifidobacterium lactis, or a specific patented version like Bifidobacterium animalis lactis DN-173 010.

No, Activia is not the only brand. While it is the most famous for its proprietary Bifidobacterium lactis strain, other brands like Stonyfield Organic, Chobani (probiotic drinks), and some Siggi's skyr varieties also contain Bifidobacterium lactis.

Regular yogurt cultures (Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus) are necessary to ferment milk into yogurt but are not specific probiotic strains with proven health benefits. Probiotic bacteria like B. lactis are added separately and have been scientifically shown to provide health benefits when consumed in sufficient quantities.

Fermented foods like yogurt offer additional nutrients, such as calcium, protein, and potassium, which supplements lack. Yogurt also helps buffer stomach acids, increasing the survival rate of probiotics. Both can be effective, but food-based sources offer a broader nutritional profile.

Greek yogurt can contain Bifidobacterium lactis, but its presence depends on the brand and product line. The straining process for Greek yogurt does not necessarily remove probiotics. Always check the label for specific strain information, as brands like Chobani and Siggi's offer Greek or skyr products with added probiotics.

Yes, many plant-based and non-dairy yogurts are fortified with probiotics. It is still essential to check the label for confirmation, as manufacturers often add beneficial strains to alternative milk bases like cashew, almond, or coconut milk.