Not all yogurts are created equal.
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| | So many yogurts, so little time. The chiller cabinet is home to an ever-growing variety of plant-based yogurt options — oat, almond, coconut, cashew — and the packaging wants you to believe they're every bit as good as the dairy original. Maybe even better. But when you start reading the labels, you'll find more fiber here, less protein there, or calcium added back in. For such a simple foodstuff, it gets complicated, quickly.
Below, our experts break down how nondairy yogurts really compare to traditional dairy, what the labels won't tell you upfront, and how to pick the best option for your needs. | | | | | | | Let's put it to the expert,
Tim Snaith
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |  | | Written by Tim Snaith
March 17, 2026 • 3 min read | | | | | |  | | | | Q: | Are nondairy yogurts as nutritious as yogurt made from milk? | | | A: | Nondairy yogurt is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. It may have a different nutrient profile than dairy options, but that does not mean it is any more or less nutritious.
Plant-based yogurts naturally have more fiber and may contain less sugar. However, dairy yogurts tend to provide more protein and calcium.
Some higher protein plant-based yogurts are made from soy or almonds. A study comparing over 600 yogurts (not including soy) found that almond-based varieties scored highest for overall nutrient density because they're lower in sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. That said, they still lag behind dairy yogurts on protein and calcium, so it depends on what you're optimizing for. For example, look for products with added calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
When choosing yogurt, always read the nutrition label to select options with less added sugar and higher protein content. Opting for plain, unsweetened versions helps you avoid added sugars. Finally, top with some fruit for extra flavor and fiber! | | | | | Catherine Donnellan, Registered Dietitian | | | Want to learn more about food, diets, cooking, or some other nutrition subject? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com and we'll look into it for you! (Heads up, we may use your response in an upcoming newsletter.) | | | Sponsored by | |  | | | | | Eat like a pro | | | | |  | | Factor | | Between figuring out how to build a balanced diet and maintaining it, following a healthy lifestyle can keep you busy. Factor can help make meeting your wellness and nutrition goals simpler. Browse its menu of 100+ chef-curated, dietitian-approved, no-mess meals, smoothies, and snacks, and have your pick of those that align with your eating habits, including keto, high protein, fiber filled, and GLP-1 support. Then it's only a matter of waiting for your ready-to-eat meals (just add heat) to arrive at your doorstep. Receive up to $130 off and free breakfast for 1 year with code HEALTHBFAST. | | | | Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Now's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Now are owned by RVO Health. | | | | | | | | | | | | What we're digesting | | 🚽 Can ulcerative colitis cause constipation? It's more common than you'd think. Here's how to manage it. | | 🍴 Eating with tardive dyskinesia. Tips for managing swallowing challenges at mealtime. | | 🌅 Morning life hacks for getting ready with diabetes. How to get a head start on your daily routine. | | 🧺 The 7 best meal delivery services for 2026. Dietitian-tested picks for every budget and diet. | | | |   | | | Until next time, |  | Take care of yourself, and we'll see
you again soon! | | | | |  | | This edition was powered by | | full-fat Greek yogurt, every day. ️ | | | | |
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