Live yoghurt has become a staple in many households, prized not only for its creamy texture and tangy flavour but also for its rich content of gut-friendly bacteria. This fermented dairy product is a cornerstone of a balanced diet, offering a natural source of probiotics that support digestive health. For families, it serves as a versatile ingredient, from breakfast accompaniments to evening snacks, without the added sugars found in flavoured varieties.
What Makes Live Yoghurt Special?
Live yoghurt is distinguished by its active bacterial cultures, which include strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus thermophilus. These microorganisms are responsible for fermenting milk, resulting in the characteristic tang, smooth texture, and enhanced digestibility of the yoghurt. The presence of these beneficial bacteria is a key factor linking live yoghurt to improved gut health, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural wellness benefits.
However, transparency in sourcing can be a concern. While many supermarket brands use British milk, details about farming practices and animal welfare are often lacking. Opting for organic options can provide greater assurance of quality and ethical standards, offering consumers a clearer narrative about the product's origins.
Top Picks from Supermarket Shelves
In a detailed taste test, several supermarket live yoghurts stood out for their quality, flavour, and value. Here are the highlights:
Best Overall: Yeo Valley Organic Whole Milk Natural Yoghurt
Priced at £2 for 450g at Morrisons and Sainsbury's, this yoghurt earns a four-star rating. It boasts a creamy yet pourable texture, with a sweet-forward taste balanced by subtle acidity. Made from organic British milk and live cultures, it offers a silky mouthfeel and represents excellent value for an organic product.
Best Bargain: Morrisons Natural Yoghurt
At just £1.10 for 500g, this option provides great value with a three-star rating. It features a thick, creamy consistency, a well-balanced sweet flavour, and gentle acidity. Sourced from British milk and containing live cultures, it's a reliable choice for everyday use.
Other Notable Options
- Duchy Organic Natural Greek-Style Yoghurt: Available at Waitrose for £2 per 450g, this four-star yoghurt is rich, thick, and indulgent, with a fresh acidity and sweet notes.
- Onken Set Natural Yoghurt: Priced at £1.50 for 450g at Waitrose, it earns four stars for its thick, clean-tasting profile and versatility, fortified with vitamin D.
- St Helen's Farm Goat's Milk Natural Yoghurt: Sold at Sainsbury's and Waitrose, this four-star option offers a thick, creamy texture with a sour twang, ideal for those who find goat's milk easier to digest.
- Pakeeza Live Set Natural Yoghurt: Available at Iceland and Sainsbury's, this three-star yoghurt is thick and clean, with complex sour notes balanced by sweetness.
- Asda Natural Yoghurt: At £1.08 for 500g, this two-star option is light and clean, with a classic sour edge and good value.
- Tesco Natural Yoghurt: Priced at £1.15 for 500g, it offers a smooth, mild flavour and looser consistency, earning two stars.
Incorporating live yoghurt into your diet can be a simple yet effective way to support gut health while enjoying a delicious and natural food product. Whether you prefer organic options or budget-friendly picks, there's a supermarket yoghurt to suit every taste and need.
