Have you noticed? Vegan yogurt is going through a period of revival. Let's call it a dairy-free yogurt renaissance. Right now you can find creative, delicious, dreamy plant-based yogurts using almond, coconut and soy ingredients.
Unlike when I first went vegan, over ten years ago, today's vegan yogurts are versatile, creamy, silky, sweet and satisfying.
Ditching dairy has never been easier. (Even dairy Greek yogurt has some serious competition now!)
I spent the past week taste testing all the brands and flavors I could get my hands on. So take a peek at my vegan yogurt reviews + buying guide. Fall in love with yogurt again..
Pop those tops and lets get tasting.
I have always loved yogurt. In my pre-vegan days I would stack my fridge shelves with rows of dairy yogurts. From thick, gelatinous custard-style strawberry to fat-free 'Boston Cream Pie' and 'Key Lime Pie' flavors to sweet, creamy vanilla and swirled lemon and blueberry.
I would bring yogurt for school snacks, eat it for breakfast with crunchy granola and fruit, swirl it into smoothies and grab it as a late night snack. Yogurt, it turns out, was a pretty solid comfort food for me.
But when I went vegan, I noticed that dairy-free yogurts didn't exactly have their game together. They didn't have the flavor and variety range compared to my dairy yogurt besties, and the texture was a bit, well, off.
Eventually, after years of ditching dairy-free yogurts, I found a few options I liked. A brand called Whole Soy and Co (which recently closed down) nailed the vegan yogurt thing. And Trader Joe's soon had a few ok options in peach and strawberry flavors. But recently, vegan yogurt options have multiplied. And my taste buds couldn't be happier.
This past week as I LOADED my fridge with every vegan yogurt brand and flavor imaginable (and available at my local grocery stores). I nibbled different flavors, did back-to-back taste tests and over all made my gut bacteria very very happy in the process. Yogurt overload! But it turns out, with yogurt, I don't think you can get too much of a good thing. I loved adding one, two or even three yogurts to my day of food!
Probiotics? Check!
And the reviewing began with scribbles of notes and tests and re-tests. Not a bad gig to take on.
My results are in! Get your yogurt spoons ready..
(UPDATE on the Silk yogurt at the bottom of this post.)
Vegan Yogurt Buying + Serving Tips:
- Sweetness. If you do not like yogurts that are overly sweet, or you like adding your own sweeteners and flavors (like maple syrup, cinnamon and more) choose plain or unsweetened varieties.
- Fresh is Best. Always look for the latest "sell by" date. You may need to dig in the back of the row to find one.
- Fruity and Fun. For a sweet treat yogurt, look for fruity and dessert flavors like strawberry, blueberry and even chocolate.
- DIY Yogurt Flavors. It is easy to create your own DIY customized yogurt flavors at home. Just buy a plain or vanilla flavored yogurt and use these ingredients to create your own DIY yogurt flavors: cocoa powder, maple syrup, almond butter, cinnamon, fruit jams, superfoods like hemp and chia, granola and on and on.
- Smoothies + "Frozen Yogurt" Vegan yogurt is a great substitute for non-dairy milk when making vegan smoothies or "banana ice cream." Your smoothie or ice cream will turn out thicker in consistency using yogurt, so add water or non-dairy milk as desired to thin things out.
- Probiotics. Vegan yogurt is a source of probiotics. You may also be getting protein, fiber and healthy fats --depending on what brand you buy.
In General:
- Coconut-based yogurts tend to have a silky and rich texture, and are higher in fat than soy or almond yogurts. Coconut yogurt usually does not contain as much protein, but does often include a nice boost of fiber.
- Almond-based yogurts tend to be lower in calories and have a thin or "light" texture. They are usually not rich in protein or fiber. However, Kite Hill is an exception to this rule, and is rich in healthy fats. I can assume that the reason for how much fat is in an almond-based yogurt (since almonds are rich in healthy fats as we all know) has to do with how "watered down" the almond base is. This can be very true for almond milks as well.
- Soy-based yogurts tend to have creamy, fluffy texture as well as a nice boost of protein from the legume base. Soy yogurts, like soy milk, for me, tend to mimic dairy the most effectively. Soy yogurts usually contain a bit of fat and fiber, but not much.
Vegan Yogurt: Overall Results (detailed reviews follow)
Favorites All Around:
Kite Hill (outstanding quality, richness)
O'Soy (vanilla is lovely, but on the sweet side)
So Delicious - Coconut Milk (obsessed with the fluffy texture - I like Plain flavor the best, still nice and sweet)
Silk Yogurt (lovely texture, creamy and satisfying)
Forager (new fave.. cashew based excellent taste and texture)
Average:
Coconut Grove
Daiya (custard style texture, thick and creamy)
Nancy's
Trader Joe's
Not My Favorites:
Almond Dream Yogurt
So Delicious - Almond
Favorite Greek-Style Vegan Yogurts:
Daiya
Kite Hill - (thick enough to be considered Greek style)
(I have not tried So Delicious Greek Style yet)
Favorite Almond Vegan Yogurt:
Kite Hill
Favorite Culinary/Plain Vegan Yogurt:
Kite Hill Plain
So Delicious Unsweetened
Favorite Coconut Vegan Yogurt:
So Delicious - Coconut Cultured
Most Gourmet + Fancy Schmancy:
Kite Hill
If I Could Only Buy ONE Vegan Yogurt:
Kite Hill any flavor (vanilla is sublime)
Best Probiotics:
BioKPlus Soy or Rice based yogurt shots! I did not include this brand in my formal review because it is more or a probiotic supplement than a yogurt snack - but it is incredibly rich in probiotics and I LOVE adding them to my diet once in a while. You can find them in the Whole Foods Supplements fridge.
--
Vegan Yogurt Reviews + Nutrition Facts -- My Reviews, Photos and Notes. (No glamour shots allowed for the pics! This is how the yogurt scoops out of the container. No stirring or fluffing or cleaning allowed.)
1. Brand: Silk "Dairy Free Yogurt Alternative"
Flavors: Black Cherry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Peach and Mango, Vanilla, Tropical Pineapple
Color: Vibrant beautiful colors.
Texture: Silky smooth, on the thin side.
Taste: No chalky aftertaste, bold and pure fruit flavors. Sweet and enjoyably tart but not too sweet.
Ingredients: (strawberry) Soymilk (Filtered Water, Soybeans), Cane Sugar, Strawberries, Contains 2% or less of: Corn Starch, Natural Flavor, Pectin, Strawberry Juice Concentrate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Lemon Juice Concentrate, Citric Acid, Dipotassium Phosphate, Sea Salt, Beta Carotene (Color), Live and Active Cultures, Vitamin D2, Vitamin C Ester, Natural Mixed Tocopherols. Contains Soy.
Nutrition: 5.3oz, 140 calories, 6g protein, 2g fiber, 3.5g fat
Would I Buy it Again: Yes
Other Notes: I love the packaging, I can add crunchy topping right in the container -- I love the fluffy silky texture, so good! Glad Silk is NON-GMO. I love the serving size at 5.3 oz instead of 6oz which is more standard.
My Wishes: I wish it was organic. I wish they did a plain/unsweetened flavor. UPDATED: I am not too happy with the fact that Silk does not certify that their yogurt is vegan. And after several email exchanges they would not tell me exact details about what that means. The yogury is dairy free and vegetarian, but there is a 'certified vegan' issue with one or some of their suppliers. Again, I do not have details, but you can read some of the email exchange at the bottom of this post.
Bottom Line: Tastes yummy and like a healthy treat.
Vegan Company: Yes -- but the yogurt as of right now (Nov 2015) is not certified "vegan"
website - Silk.com
2. Brand: Kite Hill --- FAVORITE BRAND
Flavors: Plain, Vanilla, Peach, Blueberry, Strawberry
Color: Good and clean colors - love that the vanilla has tiny black vanilla bean specks and the fruit colors look natural.
Texture: Silky yet has body and super creamy and rich - a few large lumps in the plain, but nothing unpleasant. Flavored versions are rich and silky smooth.
Taste: This stuff is the real deal -- tastes like yogurt and not too sweet. I really love that you can actually taste the almond part of the yogurt. No funny aftertaste. Just pure goodness. High quality taste. Love. After finally trying all the flavors I am in love with each one.
Ingredients: (plain) Almond Milk (Water, Almonds), Cane Sugar, Locust Bean Gum, Xanthan Gum, Agar, Live Active Cultures: S.Thermophilus, L.Bulgaricus, L.Acidophilus and Bifidobacteria.
Nutrition: 5.3oz, 160 calories, 13g fat, 6g protein, 0g fiber
Would I Buy it Again: Yes
Other Notes: I adore the richness to this yogurt. This is the only almond based yogurt I would buy again. The plain flavor is the perfect DIY base for making your own yogurt flavors. Not too sweet, which is a common complaint with yogurts.
My Wishes: I wish they would experiment with coconut or soy bases - I know the results would be incredible. I wish they were more widely available since Kite Hill product, right now, are exclusively sold at Whole Foods.
Bottom Line: My favorite vegan yogurt!! This vegan yogurt is not your mother's vegan yogurt. Even Greek dairy yogurt connoisseurs will be impressed. I love the richness! I also love the simple, high quality ingredients I have come to expect from Kite Hill products. Gourmet taste. The plain flavor is perfect for culinary uses like veganized yogurt sauces and dips.
Vegan Company: Yes
website - Kite Hill
3. Brand: Daiya "Greek Style Yogurt"
Flavors: Black Cherry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Peach
Color: Vibrant colors and I like that there are bits of fruit in it - blueberry is rich purple
Texture: Smooth and super thick. Custard-like.
Taste: Not much tartness, but more of a rich cream + fruit flavor.
Ingredients: (peach) Filtered water, peach fruit preparation (diced peaches, evaporated cane sugar, water, tapioca starch, pectin, turmeric and annatto (color), lemon juice concentrate), coconut cream, pea protein isolate, evaporated cane sugar, creamed coconut, chicory root extract, potato starch, vegan natural flavors, lactic acid (vegan), titanium dioxide, tricalcium phosphate, lemon juice concentrate, locust bean gum, pectin, guar gum, sea salt, L. plantarum, L. casei, vitamin B12.
Nutrition: 5.3oz, 150 calories, 4.5g fat, 8g protein, 3g fiber
Would I Buy it Again: Yes
Other Notes: This yogurt is super thick. I am not used to this texture. If you do not like overly thick yogurts, this may seem too heavy for you, but since it is positioned as a "Greek style" yogurt, it works. I love the packaging and fun flavors. I love the blueberry, but the strawberry has an odd taste to me when compared side by side other strawberry brands. Not as tart and tangy as other yogurts.
My Wishes: I hope they come out with a plain and vanilla flavor. And do a yogurt that is not Greek Yogurt style.
Bottom Line: Successful new vegan yogurt offering that gives dairy Greek yogurt some serious competition.
Vegan Company: Yes
website Daiya.com
4. Brand: So Delicious - Cultured Coconut Milk
Flavors: Chocolate, Passionate Mango, Blueberry, Unsweetened, Unsweetened Vanilla, Plain
Color:Pure whites with the vanilla and plain.
Texture: Fluffy! Silky smooth, shiny, watery yet rich. Pours on the watery side, but still has body.
Taste: Smooth. I love the bright and tart flavor combined with light sweetness. Zero chalkiness, which I appreciate. I am really into the Plain flavor lately, it reminds me of PinkBerry's vegan coconut frozen yogurt! Love the plain and unsweetened vanilla flavors a lot.
Ingredients: (unsweetened plain) ORGANIC COCONUT MILK (WATER, ORGANIC COCONUT CREAM), CHICORY ROOT EXTRACT, PECTIN, ALGIN, MAGNESIUM PHOSPHATE, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, RICE STARCH, LOCUST BEAN GUM, LIVE CULTURES, GUAR GUM, DIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE, GELLAN GUM, XANTHAN GUM, VITAMIN D2, VITAMIN B12.
Nutrition: 5.3z, 110 calories, 5g fat, 0g protein, 2g fiber
Would I Buy it Again: Yes
Other Notes: This yogurt is super smooth and I love the characteristic tart "yogurt" flavor.
My Wishes: I wish there was protein in this yogurt.
Bottom Line: Love this silky smooth, tastes-like-yogurt yogurt. Light and lovely texture. Super fluffy!
Vegan Company: Yes
website - So Delicious
5. Brand: Stonyfield Organic O'Soy
Flavors: Raspberry, Vanilla, Blueberry, Strawberry
Color: Muted colors because of fruit-on-bottom style.
Texture: Smooth, good fruit content. Has a classic thick and creamy yogurt texture.
Taste: Pleasant sweet and tangy flavor. The vanilla is so light and appealing. Flavors taste authentic.
Ingredients: (strawberry) CULTURED PASTEURIZED ORGANIC SOY MILK, ORGANIC SUGAR, ORGANIC STRAWBERRIES, NATURAL FLAVOR, PECTIN, CALCIUM CARBONATE, ORGANIC BEET JUICE CONCENTRATE (FOR COLOR).
Nutrition: vanilla - 6oz, 150 calories, 7g protein, 1g fiber, 3g fat
Would I Buy it Again: Yes
Other Notes: I tried the vanilla and loved the flavor. The strawberry was very food too, but a bit too sweet for me. Overall I was super impressed in this brand that I have not tried in a long time.
My Wishes: I wish this was a vegan company
Bottom Line: Loved it. Great go-to organic soy yogurt.
Vegan Company: No
website - Stonyfield
6. Brand: Nancy's Cultured Soy Yogurt
Flavors: Strawberry, Mango, Blackberry, Vanilla, Blueberry, Raspberry, Plain
Color: Brownish red for the strawberry - not very bold in color
Texture: Slightly lumpy and not very silky at all
Taste: Flavored versions are very mild in taste. The flavors are muddled as opposed to clear and bright. Nancy's yogurt tastes natural though, which is a nice thing. The plain flavor is disappointingly bitter and tart in a way where you really have to add some sweetener, toppings or flavor to it to make it taste good. I really wanted to love Nancy's, but after many attempts and taste tests it is just not my favorite. I do applaud their ingredients though.
Ingredients: Organic soy milk, org. amazake (water, org. brown rice, vegan amylase enzyme), organic strawberries, organic kosher white grape juice concentrate, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, calcium carbonate, Live Probiotic Cultures: L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, L. casei, L. rhamnosus, Live Yogurt Cultures: L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus.
Nutrition: 6oz, 140cal, 3.5g fat, 3g fiber, 5g protein
Would I Buy it Again: Maybe
Other Notes: It is hard to get past the color and texture. But I love the ingredient profile and the fact that it is fruit juice and rice sweetened.
My Wishes: I wish the fruit flavors were bolder and that the texture was silkier. More fruit color would help too.
Bottom Line: I really love the flavor, I appreciate the natural taste and really enjoy it despite the color and texture issues.
Vegan Company: No
website - Nancy's
7. Brand: Coconut Grove Cultured Yogurt
Flavors: plain, strawberry, vanilla, blueberry - (fruit on the bottom style)
Color: Bland colors, but rich fruit compotes on the bottom
Texture: Silky smooth, no bumps, but a bit too gel-like for me
Taste: Coconut flavor is a bit overpowering in the base (you have to like a coconut flavor accent). Flavor ir ok, but the fruit compote is too sweet for me. A bit of chalkiness.
Ingredients: (strawberry) Organic coconut milk (water, organic coconut cream, guar gum), organic tapioca starch, organic arrowroot starch, organic fruit (organic dried cane syrup, organic strawberries, water, pectin, organic locust bean gum, natural flavor, vegetable juice), organic coconut sugar, and live active cultures – S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, L. acidophilus and bifidobacterium.
Nutrition: 6oz, 210 calories, 11g fat, 1g protein, 0g fiber
Would I Buy it Again: Probably not
Other Notes: I love that the product claims to have "just six ingredients" but that doesn't seem true when one of the ingredients (organic fruit) has a bunch of ingredients on its own. I like that coconut sugar is the sweetener.
My Wishes: A bit less gel-like texture, a bit more body
Bottom Line: Great coconut milk yogurt product with its own unique texture and rich coconut flavor -- happily organic
Vegan Company: Yes
website - Coconut Grove
8. Brand: So Delicious - Almond Yogurt
Flavors: Blueberry, Strawberry, Vanilla, Plain
Color: Muted colors
Texture: Ok, smooth with a few lumps
Taste: A bit chalky, tart
Ingredients: (vanilla) ALMOND MILK (WATER, ALMONDS), ORGANIC DRIED CANE SYRUP, CAROB BEAN GUM, PECTIN, TAPIOCA DEXTROSE, CALCIUM PHOSPHATE, CITRIC ACID, NATURAL FLAVORS, LIVE CULTURES, VITAMIN D2, VITAMIN B12.
Nutrition: 6oz, 120 calories, 5g fat, 2g protein, 4g fiber
Would I Buy it Again: No
Other Notes: I will choose the coconut milk yogurts by So Delicious over the almond milk varieties
My Wishes: Lacking in richness and flavor
Bottom Line: Not into these too much, but not bad
Vegan Company: Yes
website - So Delicious Almond
9. Brand: Almond Dream Yogurt
Flavors: Strawberry, Vanilla, Mixed Berry, Coconut, Vanilla, Plain
Color: Ok, I did not see the berry flavors though
Texture: Lumpy upon opening, gel-like too, not very rich
Taste: Chalky and bland
Ingredients: (vanilla) ALMOND BASE (WATER, ALMONDS), STABILIZER BLEND (TAPIOCA MALTODEXTRIN, CORN STARCH, CAROB BEAN GUM, PECTIN), EVAPORATED CANE SYRUP, VANILLA MIX (EVAPORATED CANE SYRUP, VANILLA FLAVOR WITH OTHER NATURAL FLAVORS, VANILLA BEANS, LEMON JUICE CONCENTRATE, CARAMEL AND ANNATTO COLORS), TAPIOCA FIBER, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, NATURAL VANILLA EXTRACT, CULTURES*. *CULTURES: L. ACIDOPHILUS, P. LACTIS, S. THERMOPHILUS, BIFIDOBACTERIUM LACTIS, L. ACIDOPHILUS, L. CASEI, L. RHAMNOSUS, L. DELBRUECKII LACTIS & BULGARICUS
Nutrition: 6oz, 160 calories, 3g fat, 3g fiber, 1g protein
Would I Buy it Again: No
Other Notes: I wasn't impressed with this at all. I love Soy Dream soy milk so much, but this was unimpressive.
My Wishes: I hope they try a soy yogurt. And maybe rethink the consistency of this almond yogurt.
Bottom Line: Not my fave.
Vegan Company: Yes
website - Almond Dream
Review Details: These yogurts were all purchased by me, from Whole Foods Market. None of these reviews are sponsored. I did not taste every single flavor in these product lines, so my reviews may vary based on flavors.
If you have a yogurt I missed and would like me to review, please let me know in the comments.
Please also feel free to post your own reviews and comments on these brands - if they agree or disagree with my opinions.
Not Included -- Trader Joe's and Amande. (Though I have tried these brands before.)
Another look at Daiya..
Like my reviews? Check out more!..
Matcha Reviews
Vegan Cheese Reviews
Vegan Protein Powder Reviews
--
UPDATE: I just posted this last night and already I have some news. As you will see below, Silk is one of my faves from the taste tests. However, this morning a reader informed me of a section on Silk's website that says this: "We are currently unable to label our Dairy-Free Yogurt Alternative products as vegan due to the complex journey that some of our ingredients take on their way from the farm to the store shelf."
..I have written Silk and hope to get a response soon. I find it strange that Silk was sampling their yogurt to well known vegans at Expo West last spring (where I first tasted it) yet their website says this. I hope the have a good explanation. I am very anxious to know which ingredient is questionable. And if all vegan yogurts have this problem or just Silk? Stay tuned!
Response from Silk regarding my email:
"Hi Kathy,
Thank you for your recent email to Silk®.
It’s wonderful to hear how you tried and enjoyed our new Dairy Free Yogurt Alternative! We worked so hard on this new product so it’s great to hear you really liked it!
I am very sorry for the confusion and we appreciate your question. Due to the complex journey that some of our ingredients take on their way from the farm to the store shelf, we are currently unable to label our Silk Dairy Free Yogurt Alternative products as vegan. The product is considered vegetarian-friendly. (Vegetarian-friendly meaning no meat including beef).
What the above statement means is....
We source some ingredients for the Dairy-Free Yogurt from a network of suppliers and we are unable confirm that these ingredients have been processed as vegan.
Thanks again for contacting the Consumer Connections Department. I hope you have a great day!
Sincerely,
Consumer Connections Representative"
..so there you have it. I am still trying to get more details. I will update you if I do.
And the next email from Silk said this..
"Hi Kathy,
Thank you for your recent email to Silk®.
We appreciate you following up with us. The media used to grow the live and active cultures is vegan - meaning no animal product was used.
Unfortunately, there is no additional information that we are able to share beyond what you've already provided.
Thanks again for contacting the Consumer Connections Department. I hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Sincerely,
B___"
---
UPDATES
11/7/2015 -- I updated my reviews for Kite Hill, Nancy's and Silk. I finally tried all the Kite Hill flavors and love them all SO much. And I finally tried the Nancy's plain flavor and did not like it so much. But it is good when I flavor it myself. As for Silk, after several email exchanges I was very disappointed that they would not tell me exactly what the "non-vegan" item in question is in the yogurt ingredients. I did verify that it does not have to do with the live and active cultures, however. So without more transparency, I had to downgrade them from my favorite brand to just in the top flavors. Plus, Kite Hill flavored versions far exceeded my expectations. I really hope Silk can change the yogurt status to certified vegan so this issue can be put to rest. That all said, they produce a delicious product that I believe non-vegans (and vegans) will adore. More updates if I get any!
Marja Tax says
Hi Kathy,
Looks like you are getting the run-around from the Silk people. In trying to research what the source of the tricalcium phosphate in their yogurt comes from, I found out that the most common source is ground up animal bones! There are other sources that do not come from animals and I have a very strong suspicion that is why the Silk people will not give you a direct answer. Their BS about not being able to verify their outside sources as vegan is just a corporate coverup. Thank you for your post on the different vegan yogurts and, for sure, my next purchase will be the Hill brand.
Debbie says
I know this is a really old post, but after reading it I checked the carton of Silk yogurt in my fridge and it does say Vegan Certified, so I assume they made some changes in the several years since you updated. Thanks, by the way for this in-depth review.
Elizabeth Donald says
I happen to agree with your test but I didn't go through all that testing. I simply chose the one with the least sugar, the most protein and the least fat. Kate Hill passed the test. I mix it with low sugar granola and fresh fruit.
Kungi says
No mention about the sugar content which more important.
Kathy Patalsky says
General rule is basically that anything “flavored” will have more sugar. The plain and unsweetened flavors will be what you want to avoid high sugar content.
gwen Kerksiek says
P.S. I just read your update and thank you for updating about the silk yogurt. So many people things it is vegan when it is vegetarian! Thank you again!
JoshandCharity says
Thanks for going to the extra effort to try all of these, and share the information with us. Now, I just need to head to Whole Foods to try the kite hill brand. It sounds divine!
hanne says
Dear Kathy, what I nice overview, and you're blessed with such a wide selection, in most countries we can only dream of it! Just one remark, in your buying guide you mention to always aim for the latest 'sell by' date. this is something that actually add to food waiste, since the ultimate selling date is already very precautious ... i would rather suggest to buy the yoghurt when you need it and not consume it too long after! nice website you have by the way 🙂
Julia Ralston says
Thank you Kathy, for your review. This was very helpful. Sadly we don't have a place where I live that sells Kite Hill, I so wanted to try that, but I did find a store that carry's the daiya yogurt and it is amazing. You are right, the texture is very much the same like a custard, but I like my yogurts thick, so I'm loving this. The first one I tried was Black Cherry, very yummie. Thank you for taking the extra step and reviewing the alternatives.
first last (is it dead yet?) says
Just tried the Tempt Hemp Raspberry. It's labelled as "Greek Style" which would imply thick. This yogurt is not thick, more like regular yogurt. But the taste is good, no aftertaste, raspberry jam at the bottom to mix. Only wish the nutrition label showed how much Omega 3/6s were in a container (label just claims "a good source of ...."). I use yogurt to mask the bitterness of my glucosine pills in the morning. This yogurt is perfert for it. Just sweet enough to mask the pill taste, not sweet enough to make you say "yech".
Vegan Richa says
Currently kite hill vanilla and so delicious coconut plain are my faves. i have to try many from the list to see how i like them. I made a ton fo yogurt every other day when Mom was visiting and home made is much lighter, fresher and feel better on the tummy.
Megan Manson says
Thanks for the comprehensive evaluation. I occasionally make my own soy yogurt in my Instant Pot and I just tried the Kite Hill plain almond. Plant-based yogurt is tricky for me because I'm allergic to carob and it appears as a thickener often.
Kathy Patalsky says
It's such a shame if any of this is true because silk had always been a favorite of mine! And the yogurt is solid.
first last (is it dead yet?) says
Just saw a new product in the UNFI catalog: Harmless Harvest coconut yogurt. Has anyone heard/tried this? Attributes are vegan, 95% organic and fair-trade. Can't find any online reviews, so it must be a relatively new product.
Kathy Patalsky says
Ooo I love their coconut water so... Must find!
Erin says
LOVE Kite Hill! Another favorite is the greek-style So Delicious, and special treat is Anita's Coconut Creamline yogurt 🙂 This was super helpful, I've been wondering if I should try O'Soy next.
Denise says
I also believe one of the other problems with the Silk brand is that they use gmo soybean. Not a good thing
first last (is it dead yet?) says
Noticed that with the soymilk, they've moved away from organic labelling. Which means GMO. And then there's the fact that their "organic" dairy is right next to the non-organic factory farm. Can you say "cross-contamination"? Haven't bought any SILK product in over 5 years due to this.
Jennifer says
Have you tried the brand "Tempt" hemp yogurt? I love the Kite Hill and Daiya yogurts as well, but I find myself eating those mainly as dessert. The tempt yogurt has pretty good ingredients (to me), is low in fat and lower in sugar and has lots of protein! It is a little thinner in texture than the custard-y type yogurts but I really like its tart not-too-sweet flavor!
Kathy Patalsky says
I have not seen it! Only their hemp milk. Will look for though to try.
Erin Oldham says
Is it supposed to be really grainy in texture? I just got some and am trying to figure out if it's normal or not... I'm not used to hemp products so I'm not sure how to tell.
Abby Heugel says
I've had the Tempt...do NOT attempt! Even though it was labeled as Greek-style, it was so watery you could have drank it with a straw. Plus, it was really bitter and grainy. I was really, really, disappointed. I also found the Daiya strawberry to be very artificial tasting, but then again, I prefer the vegan So Delicious Plain Greek-style the best, so there's that. Anyway, NO to Tempt. Not worth it.
Michelle Robinson says
Thanks for this! Unfortunately, where I'm located there aren't many vegan yogurt options (not impressed by the few I've tried), but at least I'll know the ones that are worth purchasing when they pop up.
vegyogini says
I am a bit less impressed with the Kite Hill yogurt than everyone else has been, unfortunately. Its texture is decent, as are the flavors (I tried blueberry, peach, strawberry, and plain...WF didn't have vanilla when I went last)). My only real disappointment is the fat content, but I understand not everyone is concerned about that. I loved the Daiya yogurt when it debuted at ExpoWest and haven't found it here yet. If you did, I'll look again! My favorites are the vanilla coconut milk yogurt at Trader Joe's, which I assumed is re-branded So Delicious, and the So Delicious unsweetened plain and unsweetened vanilla varieties. More than anything, I'm grateful for all this variety! We've come a looooooooooong way since I began my vegan adventure 17 years ago!
Kathy Patalsky says
You are right about fat content! KH usually had like 11g vs 2-5g with other brands. But if you look at total calories per container it isn't too bad. KH has around 180 calories. Silk has s super modest 130 calories, others can have up to 170 calories or so, and be higher in sugar. I do not mind having more fat come from almonds as opposed to more calories from sugar. Good point though! I forgot to elaborate on that in the post
Bonnie L says
You need to try Yoconut Dairy Free yogurt! coconut based and only 110 calorie per cup. Plus high in fiber and calcium and only 6g of good fats. Plus, there are no added sugar in any flavors original, vanilla bean, lemon cream, chocolate, and pineapple. Pure healthy deliciousness in every cup!
Kathy Patalsky says
It is sold exclusively at Whole Foods Market, sadly. Hope you live near one!
Kathy Patalsky says
Oh super! Enjoy your vegan yogurt adventures..
RAslam RD says
Thank you for posting this! I have been in mourning for Whole Soy yogurt ever since I learned they were going out of business. I used to buy the large plain containers and use for everything! I have experimented with making my own yogurt since but haven't hit on the right recipe yet. Until I tried Kite Hill nothing else was really cutting it for me although I have used the plain So Delicious or the vanilla O'Soy in a pinch. I really tried to like Nancy's but I just can't, and any almond yogurt I have had aside from Kite Hill was just awful to me. If only Kite Hill were not so expensive I'm sure I would buy it more. I hope they come out with a large container for the plain as well. For those asking where to find it, Kite Hill products are exclusive to Whole Foods. I have also tried their almond based cream cheese and ricotta and both are absolutely amazing, just like the yogurt!
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you for your comment! I really try to love Nancy's too. I even bought a giant tub of the plain flavor last night, but eaten as is it is very bitter and just not very good. I have to add lots of my own flavors then it is delicious. But I like yogurts for their grab and eat qualities too. Yes Kite Hill is amazing!! I finally found and tried the vanilla flavor last night and LOVED it.
Emily says
Thanks to your review, I learned that Kite Hill -- whose lovely almond milk cheeses I've been enjoying a lot in the past year -- has a yogurt. I have disliked every vegan yogurt I tried, so I stopped trying. So I was at the store last night and went looking for it, and got a cup of the plain to try for breakfast. SO GOOD. The most like the real deal. Thanks again for the review! And FYI to the curious, Kite Hill is only sold at Whole Foods, and I paid $1.99 for a 5.3oz cup. They sold it in plain, vanilla, strawberry, and peach flavors. If you've found other vegan yogurts offputtingly sweet, definitely try the plain. My boyfriend is a longtime fan of the Nancy's soy in plain, but it never did it for me.
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you for that!! Yes, Kite Hill is a dream. I am so glad they actually found a way to make a delicious almond based vegan yogurt!
first last (is it dead yet?) says
Whole Soy was my favorite brand until they went out of business. Then I switched to So Delicious, until they sold out. I avoid Silk like the plague, simply because they are so wishy-washy in terms of labelling and lack of ingredient transparancy. I'm currently using Nancy's plain and adding my own flavorings.
Kathy Patalsky says
I need to try Nancy's plain!! I have only every seen the flavors. And I agree I wish silk would be more transparent.
barb says
Great review! I can see how Nancy's is a love it or hate type of yogurt. I didn't like it at first, but it has grown on me. The Kite Hill yogurt is my current favorite.
Kathy Patalsky says
I agree, Nancy's has its own unique flavor that to me tastes very bitter and mild. I think I like more crisp flavor profiles and I do love tart and sweet in my yogurt. Glad you like KH too!
Heather McClees says
Yep, the custard is what intrigues me, so thank you for sharing such quality photos! I agree... it's so great that you do these posts and I know they take a lot of time. I think these reviews are important for readers to learn about the alternatives out there. I used to stack my yogurt in rows too ... ahh! I've learned that while I don't have to have vegan yogurt in my fridge, it is nice to have options so thank you for sharing!
Sprouts&Chocolate Ⓥ says
Such a great guide! My partner loves yoghurt, but it makes his stomach does flip-flops afterwards. I will have him read through this and hope that the one he picks is available in Canada. Awesome read!!
Kathy Patalsky says
thank you! Happy to do it.
disqus_4qM8xidxRV says
So sad to see such a bad review for Nancy's!
Nancy's is so low in sweetness and has such a good tangy yogurt flavor compared to the other brands that it is really the best yogurt. Also, if you make your own yogurt, the color and flavor and very similar to Nancy's, so I feel much better about eating it compared to the ones that have a million ingredients.
Silk, and Stoneyfield especially are just way too much sugar
Kathy Patalsky says
No ill will to Nancy's. I love their product, but everyone has different tastes! These are my personal preferences and I like really bold fruit flavors when a yogurt is "flavored" and so for me, Nancy's just didn't do that. I have bought Nancy's a lot in the past and do enjoy it. But it is not my go-to yogurt. As for low sugar, I am really excited about the unsweetened varieties on the market. Kite Hill and So Delicious have met that demand, and I hope Silk and more follow. People want less sugar for sure!
Gabrielle - Manicured Moose says
This is the email I received: Hi Gabrielle. Thanks so much for reaching out. While we cannot label our
Dairy-Free Yogurt Alternative vegan at this time, we are currently in
the process of exploring our options for vegan certification. We will
keep you posted on any updates!
-Aubrey at Silk
Hopefully you get a similar answer and not the ridiculous one about a complex journey.
Heather McClees says
What a great list! I have been wanting to try the daiya yogurts, and I'm a huge fan of the unsweetened products by So Delicious. I just wish these didn't have so much sugar! It's hard finding a good vegan yogurt without tons of additives, gums, stabilizers and sugar. I know they've come a long way and I'm sure someone down the line will nail these aspects for those of us that want fewer ingredients in our yogurt. I know they will! I like how clean the Silk label is and hope to see some lower glycemic options soon from them because I love their almond and cashew milks that are unsweetened. Great list, Kathy!
Kathy Patalsky says
Thanks Heather! The Daiya yogurts are interesting for sure. Custard like. I think some people will love them and others not so much. I think it is clear that everyone wants more unsweetened and plain options, so I hope the brands take note! 🙂
Gabrielle - Manicured Moose says
Silk is vegan. They just haven't obtained the certification they need to be able to claim a fully vegan yogurt. Last I heard they were working on the process of getting all the necessary certifications.
Kathy Patalsky says
Thanks for that input. I have been chatting with them via email and I am hoping you are right. I wish they would just say it like you said it on their website. 🙂
Shirley says
Doesn't it bother you that some of these products have a laundry list of ingredients? If all of these are needed to make a palatable product, why bother? Who wants to eat a container of gums and additives? This frustrates me when i look for alternate products. I applaud and support those with the fewest ingredients overall and the most natural.
Kathy Patalsky says
I totally agree, less is more when it comes to ingredients. But the product has to taste good too. So it is certainly a delicate balance of taste, texture and striving to be as natural as possible.
Suz says
Love Nancy's b/c unsweentened plain and very yogurty, but Kite Hill is insanely good, so rich it's crazy.
Karen Arndt says
Thanks for the detailed reviews. I really like Nancy's flavor and I most especially like that it has a short ingredient list (if you don't count the cultures). I'm not put off by color of foods if the flavor is there. Manufacturers put too much stuff in our food just to make it appeal to our eye.
Kathy Patalsky says
I do agree with you on that. I like that Nancy's in a way doesn't care about its less than perfect coloring. I just wish the fruit flavors were a bit less flat in flavor.
innerspacegirl says
Thanks for the suggestions!
Kathy Patalsky says
I think that tangy brands are silk peach and mango or strawberry, and so delicious coconut unsweetened plain. BiokPlus soy, a probiotic supplement yogurt, is also very tangy. I think Stonyfield has a nice sweet tangy flavor too.
vegangretchen says
Thanks for such a detailed review. My son absolutely loves the Silk yogurt too. I think they have really nailed the texture. He finds most of the other yogurts (including Kite Hill unfortunately) "too chunky" 😄
I loved yogurt before I went vegan as well. I started making my own plain soy yogurt following Miyoko's recipe earlier this year. That is my favorite since there are no additives etc. It is nice and tangy and I can add sweetner, fruit etc to my liking.
Kathy Patalsky says
That is awesome that you make your own yogurt from Miyoko's cookbook. And I agree with your son that Kite Hill is very chunky! I always add something too it like kamut puffs and that seems to work well. Another trick for any "chunky/thick/lumpy" vegan yogurt is to actually blend it in a blender, with a splash of non-dairy milk to thin it it and make it silky smooth. (But that is an extra step of course!)
vegangretchen says
Good idea to add something to it or blend the chunkier yogurts. I'll give that a try.
innerspacegirl says
What I'm looking for in yogurt is tanginess, not sweetness. I prefer to add fresh fruit for the sweet part. Haven't noticed Kite Hill brand. Are they in NY?
innerspacegirl says
Dairy yogurt was one of the only things I missed when I went vegan. So far the ONLY vegan yogurt I've liked is So Delicious Unsweetened Coconut. If only it had some protein! That would be perfection.
Kathy Patalsky says
I wish silk would do an unsweetened flavor! They have to. Have you tried Kite Hill's plain flavor? The vanilla stony field is pretty good too as a base flavor, but yes sweet.
Rebecca P. says
Fantastic! I love So Delicious's unsweetened coconut yogurt best! I'm allergic to soy, but I wish I could try Silks!
Kathy Patalsky says
So delicious coconut is great!!! I love that it comes in big tubs too so you can buy a lot at once.
DawnCooks says
Thanks for taking on this very, very tough challenge. LOL! I'd pretty much given up the whole vegan yogurt thing but maybe I'll give it another chance!
Kathy Patalsky says
Haha my pleasure 😉
Jenn F says
I have to agree Silk is my absolute fave! Love the peach & mango and would love to see them come out with some more flavors. I always loved key lime when I ate dairy. The So Delicious Coconut Greek Style is probably my second. It is thick but also creamy (once you stir it a bit) with great flavor.
Kathy Patalsky says
I need to find the Greek So Delicious! And yes that peach and mango by silk is just perfect!
Dolly says
you're so lucky to have so much choice. Most UK supermarkets stock one brand of non-dairy yogurt that's really sweet and tastes of chemicals