Which yogurts contain the most probiotics?

Did you know? A fermented probiotic yogurt can contain up to 1 billion live bacteria per gram! We compared them for you: homemade kefir, plain Greek yogurt, and fortified skyr are the richest choices in lactic acid bacteria , which are beneficial for gut health.

The yogurts richest in probiotics: the immediate comparison

We compared kefir, Greek yogurt, skyr and organic yogurts to help you make the best choice in natural probiotics and support your gut microbiota with active and live bacteria.

Product	Main strains	Estimated CFU (per g)	Indicative price
Homemade milk kefir	Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium longum, specific yeasts	~10⁹ CFU/g	€0.30/100g
Organic natural Greek yogurt	L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus, bifidobacterium bifidum	~10⁸ CFU/g	€0.60/100g
Probiotic-enriched Skyr	Lactobacillus acidophilus, B. lactis	~10⁸ CFU/g	€0.70/100g
Organic natural (fermented) yogurt	L. delbrueckii, S. thermophilus	~10⁷ CFU/g	€0.50/100g

Estimated CFU stands for "colony forming units," which is the number of live bacteria capable of multiplying, indicating the quantity of active microorganisms present in the yogurt. 10⁹ CFU/g means 1 billion live bacteria per gram.

We see that home or artisanal fermentation allows a higher quantity of active lactic bacteria, supporting the balance of the intestinal flora while respecting the digestion of lactose.

Ranking by type of yogurt: from most to least probiotic

1. Homemade milk kefir : often the best choice for a live and varied probiotic yogurt.
2. Organic natural Greek yogurt: contains specific cultures, with a smooth texture and mild taste.
3. Enriched skyr: combines high protein content with active strains such as bifidobacterium bifidum.
4. Organic natural fermented milk yogurts: bring simplicity and living cultures without added sugar.

How can you tell if a yogurt is truly rich in probiotics?

We guide you to identify a plain or fermented yogurt that contains active live bacteria and offers beneficial probiotic properties in a balanced diet.

Check the label

A dairy product displaying "live and active cultures" indicates that it contains lactic ferments such as lactobacillus or bifidobacterium , guaranteeing probiotic properties .

Look at the ingredients

A simple, plain yogurt , without added sugar or excessive flavorings, preserves natural fermentation and its benefits for the intestinal microbiota and the digestive system .

Observe the stump

The presence of lactobacillus acidophilu , bifidobacterium bifidum or casei shows a recognized effect on the intestinal flora and an active role in the balance of the flora .

Check for the CFU mention

The figure indicates the quantity of live bacteria per gram, often between 10⁷ and 10⁹ CFU/g. ( Source )

Opt for traditional recipes : plain yogurt , milk kefir or skyr made with long fermentation and simple ingredients for a healthy food rich in specific strains .

Remember that each probiotic yogurt can contribute to probiotic properties as part of a varied diet , helping to maintain a balanced immune system .

Homemade or industrial yogurt: which one really contains more probiotics?

We compare the differences in fermentation and preservation between artisanal and industrial yogurt to help you choose according to your desires and dietary needs.

Artisanal yogurt, often made with cow's or goat's milk , benefits from slow fermentation , allowing for more varied bacterial activity and a more authentic taste.

The manufacturer uses standardized processes to guarantee consistent quality and food safety , with selected strains, but often in smaller quantities after prolonged storage.

Industrial recipes may contain added stabilizers or sugars, while artisanal recipes prioritize simple and fresh ingredients for a more natural and healthy consumption.

Choosing between artisanal and industrial yogurt depends on our preferences: flavor, price, shelf life and accessibility, while remaining attentive to labels and mentions of "live cultures".

Is it possible to enrich your own yogurt with probiotics?

You can use commercial fermentation powder or lactic ferments to inoculate a plain yogurt , allowing you to add beneficial strains and adapt the recipe.

Fermenting at home with cow's milk or lactose-free alternatives offers control over ingredients and duration, for microbial activity tailored to your tastes and habits.

Preparing your own probiotic yogurt at home helps to limit additives while diversifying your diet, in a healthy and balanced way, close to traditional recipes consumed for centuries.

Is yogurt sufficient to meet probiotic needs?

Yogurt provides active lactic acid bacteria , which are beneficial for maintaining a balanced gut microbiota . Regular consumption can support microbial diversity and digestion.

We know that the amount of bacteria in yogurt varies depending on the recipe and manufacturing method . It may not always be sufficient to provide the optimal intake desired according to dietary goals.

Incorporating other fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha or fermented milk drinks can help diversify the intake of active microbial strains.

Supplementing one's diet with specific probiotics in capsules or powders can be considered to adjust daily intake, as part of a personalized and supervised approach.

FAQ: Your questions about yogurt and probiotics

Which yogurts are lactose-free and contain probiotics?

There are lactose-free fermented milk yogurts that retain active lactic acid bacteria . Some kefirs or plant-based yogurts are also inoculated with probiotic strains to suit all diets.

Can you eat probiotic yogurts every day?

Yes, incorporating probiotic yogurt into a balanced diet can help diversify your intake of active strains . Depending on your preferences, vary the types and check the ingredients to avoid excessive sugar.

Do fruit yogurts contain fewer probiotics?

Fruit or sweetened yogurts often undergo heating processes or the addition of flavorings that can reduce the viability of live bacteria . Opt for plain yogurt and add fresh fruit .

Are plant-based yogurts really probiotic?

Some plant-based yogurts are enriched with specific strains like lactobacillus or bifidobacterium . Check the label for the phrase "live and active cultures" to choose a product that is safe for you. A truly fermented product.

How to store yogurt to preserve its probiotics?

Keep it refrigerated, ideally between 2°C and 6°C. Maintaining the cold chain helps keep the cultures alive until the expiration date. Avoid temperature fluctuations during transport or storage.

Continue reading:

• Probiotics and coffee: can they be taken together?
• Is kombucha a good probiotic for you?
• Are bananas rich in probiotics?
• Does brewer's yeast contain probiotics?

Source: ANSES