Yogurt Products
and

Fermented Drinks


  • SIDE-BY-SIDE GREEK 100 YOGURT (posted June 3, 2015)
  • Müller Quaker Dairy enters the Greek 100 yogurt category.
  • The dual-compartment contains a side of nonfat yogurt and a side of fruit.
  • With only 100 calories, the sugar content is 12 to 13 grams as a result of the fruit being sweetened with sugar and no-calorie sucralose.
  • Each 5.3-ounce serving provides 10 grams of protein, which is achieved through the addition of milk protein concentrate and whey protein concentrate.
  • The four flavors are: Blackberry & Raspberry, Black Cherry & Pomegranate, Peach & Passion Fruit and Strawberry.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • YOGURT DRINK WITH GRANOLA SHOT (posted June 1, 2015)
  • Slingshot Foods patents unique package for drinkable high-protein yogurt.
  • Developed by a former refrigerated smoothie yogurt executive who wanted a macronutrient-dense, simple ingredient portable breakfast, Slingshot is a yogurt protein drink with a crunchy shot wrapped around the bottle neck and intended for the consumer to pour into the yogurt, shake and drink.
  • That shot is a patented plastic stick pouch filled with chia seeds, rolled oats and toasted almond bits. It contributes 3 grams of fiber and 600 milligrams of the omega-3 alpha linolenic acid to the beverage.
  • The beverage is made with low-fat yogurt enhanced with milk protein concentrate and sweetened with agave.
  • A serving contains 295 to 355 calories, 10 to 11 grams of fat and 18 to 20 grams of protein, depending on variety.
  • There are five varieties: Blueberry, Peach, Simply Plain, Strawberry and Vanilla Bean.
  • The product has been available for about a year and a half in the San Francisco Bay area with distribution plans to be national.
  • A 12-ounce single-serving plastic bottle retails for $3.99 to $4.29.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • DESSERT-STYLE SIDE-BY-SIDE GREEK YOGURT (posted May 28, 2015)
  • Chobani introduces new waistline-friendly Greek yogurts designed to satisfy consumers’ sweet tooth.
  • The new offerings come under the brand’s Flip line, which features a side-by-side compartment, one containing yogurt the other containing the sweet mix-ins. 
  • Coffee Break Bliss is coffee low-fat yogurt with biscotti pieces and chocolate. (190 calories, 5 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein)
  • Peanut Butter Dream is vanilla low-fat yogurt with honey-roasted peanuts, peanut butter clusters and milk chocolate. (210 calories, 7 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein)
  • Strawberry Summer Crisp is strawberry low-fat yogurt with graham crackers and white chocolate. (190 calories, 5 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein)
  • The products sport updated packaging that emphasizes health claims, which is part of Chobani’s new “Love This Life” ad campaign.
  • The campaign includes claims such as “Only Natural, Non-GMO Ingredients” and “40% Less Sugar than Regular Fruit Yogurt.”
  • The new creative platform and campaign center on “To love this life is to live it naturally.”
  • The Love This Life campaign, which debuted on May 1, 2015, is fully integrated across all channels, from broadcast to social to shopper marketing.
  • “We’re a brand based on the belief that when you live naturally, you live more fully,” said Peter McGuinness, chief marketing and brand officer. “Today, we’re aligning our marketing even closer to that belief, going beyond our naturally delicious food to also focus on the values that define us as a company and the humble but important role we hope to play in consumers’ lives. It takes us beyond food, and moves us more into the lifestyle space while capturing some of our Mediterranean spirit and soul.”
  • Authentic, real-life moments are the backbone of a series of modern American stories that connect the brand’s values to its fans’ values. The story begins with the campaign’s anthem spot, introducing a mom, dad and their two kids and the relationship they share, all set against the backdrop of their family farm.
  • You can view it HERE.
  • Two more stories follow the same family and the simple moments they share with each other and their natural surroundings.
  • You can view them HERE and HERE.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • DELICIOUSLY FRENCH, AUTHENTICALLY GREEK (posted May 21, 2015)
  • Yoplait introduces Bon Appetit, a new Greek yogurt and fruit snack, in Australia.
  • To view a commercial portraying the product as “deliciously French, authentically Greek,” link HERE.
  • Yoplait said market research it conducted indicated almost 90% of Australians would like to snack healthier, but prefer the taste of unhealthy snacks.
  • The brand, which is part of food and beverage company Lion’s portfolio, said the new snack product was developed with this research in mind.
  • “Australians are increasingly mindful of what they’re eating, but they’re also not willing to give up on taste,” says Emily Spicer-Stuart, marketing manager-Yoplait. “We found that almost 80% of Australians feel guilty after eating an unhealthy afternoon snack, and we don’t want it to be this way. We’ve helped out with the tasty versus healthy battle so Australians can enjoy a delicious snack that’s only 110 calories, without the guilt.”
  • Bon Appetit comes in 140-gram single-serve tubs. A serving contains no fat and 10 grams of protein.
  • There are five varieties: Blueberry, Mango, Passionfruit, Strawberry and Raspberry.

  • YOGURT WITH 25% LESS SUGAR AND MORE PROTEIN AND MILKFAT (posted May 11, 2015)
  • General Mills announces that all 25 varieties in its Yoplait Original yogurt line now have 25% less sugar, which is the result of more than 70 employees working for three years on a variety of product improvements.
  • In order to reduce the sugar, the team included additional milk and changed the natural flavorings.
  • The changes resulted in a Yoplait Original that tastes slightly less sweet, but has a taste the team is confident consumers will love.
  • Yoplait Original still contains no artificial sweeteners or flavors.
  • This is the latest effort by the company to provide consumers with better-for-you products. It follows Yoplait’s removal of high fructose corn syrup and its discontinued use of dairy with rBGH/rBST growth hormone in 2009.
  • Previously a 6-ounce cup had 170 calories, 5 grams of protein and 1.5 grams of fat. Now the same serving size has 150 calories, 6 grams of protein and 2 grams of fat, all from dairy.
  • “Our consumers are our top priority, and when they voiced concerns over the amount of sugar in our products we were determined to find a solution,” says Susan Pitt, marketing manager for Yoplait. “We understand that making good nutritional choices isn’t always easy. With less sugar, fewer calories and more protein per cup, we have no doubt that our renovated line of Yoplait Original yogurts will make it easier than ever for our consumers to feel good about their daily yogurt choice.”
  • Determined to deliver on their brand promise, Yoplait is offering a taste guarantee for Yoplait Original with reduced sugar. Any unsatisfied customer can mail in their Yoplait Original receipt to receive a refund (up to 88 cents).
  • The product will begin rolling out June 1, 2015, and has a suggested retail price of 75 cents.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • YOGURT MADE WITH REAL COFFEE (posted April 14, 2015)
  • Alpina Foods is launching the first-ever line of yogurt infused with real coffee called Alpina Café Selections. 
  • The new line-up includes four varieties: Caramel Macchiato, Coffee, Mocha and Vanilla Latte.
  • The combination of smooth creamy Greek yogurt and the robust bold taste of real coffee makes Alpina Café Selection a perfect addition to anyone’s morning or afternoon routine, according to the company.
  • The yogurts include real Colombian coffee and not coffee flavoring.
  • An excellent source of calcium, Café Selections also includes protein (12 grams) and caffeine (30 to 50 milligrams) and has only 120 calories per 5.3-ounce cup.
  • “Thirty-four percent of Americans drinks coffee, higher than soda consumption. Specialty coffee makes up a large percentage of this growth, which is why we decided to launch Alpina Café Selections,” says Gustavo Badino, general manager. “We are always looking to innovate in the dairy aisle. Once we found a recipe that tasted just like the consumer’s favorite flavor and were able to include actual Colombian coffee, we knew we had a unique product the consumer would want and enjoy.”
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • JUICY OATS + GREEK YOGURT + FRUIT (posted April 8, 2015)
  • Zen Monkey LLC is rolling out a namesake product that combines apple juice-infused rolled oats, diced fruit and Greek yogurt in a pre-mixed, ready-to-eat cup.
  • Nonfat Greek yogurt is the first ingredient.
  • The product uses real diced or whole fruit and comes in five varieties: Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry, Peach, Pineapple Coconut and Strawberry.
  • Each 5.3-ounce cup carries the tagline of “breakfast solved.”
  • A serving contains 180 to 190 calories, 1.5 to 2.5 grams of fat, 12 to 15 grams of sugar and 2 to 3 grams of fiber, depending on variety.  Each serving also provides 9 grams of protein. 
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • STEEL-CUT OATS AND FRUIT (posted March 23, 2015)
  • Yoatz combines Greek yogurt, whole fruit and oats.
  • Introduced at Expo West, organic Yoatz comes in six varieties: Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry Flax, Banana Cinnamon, Original, Peach and Strawberry Chia.
  • Each 5.3-ounce single-serve cup contains no fat, 11 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber and a mere 6 grams of sugar.
  • Described as “sugared responsibly,” the Original variety is slightly sweetened with honey and brown sugar. The fruit varieties rely on honey and stevia.
  • The fiber comes from the steel cut oats and oat fiber, and with some varieties, also the chia or flax.
  • Product claims include heart healthy, kosher, organic, gluten free, low sodium, good source of fiber and no added colors, pectin, preservatives or stabilizers.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • KEFIR GETS A PROTEIN BOOST (posted March 11, 2015)
  • Lifeway Foods Inc., puts the power of protein behind its kefir products with new Lifeway Protein Kefir, a line extension designed to aid in muscle recovery after exercise. 
  • It’s one of a series of new products that were showcased at Lifeway’s booth at Natural Products Expo West. Other new innovations included a no-sugar-added ProBugs probiotic smoothie for kids, a limited-edition Lowfat Watermelon Kefir for summer and a 16-ounce size of nine standard Lifeway kefir and organic kefir flavors.
  • Lifeway Protein Kefir comes in a 16-fluid-ounce bottle, which is two servings.
  • A single serving contains 20 grams of protein. (There are 11 grams naturally occurring in the milk. The 9-gram boost comes from added whey protein.)
  • A serving also contains a mere 160 calories and no fat.
  • The cultured milk smoothie has Lifeway’s trademark tart and tangy taste from the 12 live and active probiotic cultures.
  • It’s a probiotic-plus-protein punch that not only leverages the carbohydrates in the kefir to increase protein absorption, but also provides the immunity-enhancing benefits of probiotics to help keep both casual exercisers and serious athletes in the game, according to the company.
  • Varieties are: Banana, Mixed Berry and Vanilla.
  • The new kefir creations are the latest additions to Lifeway’s menu of “Good for more than just you” products, fitting the theme of the company’s recently launched ad campaign. Made with a focus on sustainability, sourcing local and regional milk free from synthetic growth hormones and antibiotics and using non-genetically modified ingredients, all 14 new Lifeway SKUs complement the company’s mission to make high-quality probiotic products accessible to all.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • REFRIGERATED YOGURT IS A SLAM DUNK (posted March 2, 2015)
  • Alpina Foods introduces Alpina NBA All-Stars Yogurt, which is creamy, low-fat vanilla-flavored yogurt with a cookie or candy topping.  
  • Sold in four packs of 4-ounce cups, a serving contains 120 calories, 4 grams of protein and 10% of an adult’s recommended daily allowance of calcium.
  • The perfectly proportioned toppings add a little “dunking” fun while appealing to basketball fans of all ages.
  • “Alpina Foods is committed to bringing innovation to the dairy aisle,” says Gustavo Badino, general manager. “We saw a need for a product that catered to the American male--youth or adult--in the yogurt section, and we decided to take the challenge and introduce this NBA All-Stars product.”

  • NEW AUSSIE-STYLE YOGURT BRAND ENTERS U.S. MARKETPLACE (posted February 23, 2015)
  • WhiteWave Foods just started rolling out yulu Aussie Style Yogurt.
  • Australian-style yogurt is known for its velvety texture and creaminess as well as inclusion of large, identifiable pieces of fruit.
  • Similar to Greek yogurt, it has a high protein content and is typically hand crafted in small batches and sweetened with honey.
  • The yulu line comes in 5.3-ounce containers and in five varieties: Blueberry, Honey, Raspberry, Strawberry and Vanilla Bean.
  • Each serving, depending on variety, delivers 9 to 10 grams of protein, as well as 170 to 190 calories, 14 to 17 grams of sugar and 7 grams of fat.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • ICE CREAM-INSPIRED REFRIGERATED YOGURT (posted February 17, 2015)
  • Müller introduces decadent yogurt line to U.S. consumers.
  • The newest flavors, described as “thick and cream,” are inspired by dairy treats found in the retail freezer and scoop shop.
  • They are: Mint Chocolate Chip, Raspberry Chocolate Chip, Strawberries & Cream and Vanilla Bean.
  • Each 5.3-ounce cup contains 170 to 210 calories, 8 to 9 grams fat, 16 to 22 grams sugar and 7 grams protein.
  • Milk protein concentrate and whey protein concentrate provide the boost of protein.
  • The company is marketing the decadent yogurts as “a good source of protein and calcium for 210 calories or less for that ‘me moment’ you deserve.”
  • As one of Europe’s most popular yogurt brands, Müller has been perfecting indulgence for the world’s most notorious pleasure seekers for more than a century, according to the company. It’s now time for U.S. consumers to experience its specialties.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • A NEW PLAYER IN THE GREEK YOGURT AND SMOOTHIE CATEGORY (posted February 11, 2015)
  • Borden Dairy introduces LALA Low-Fat Greek Smoothies and Yogurts.
  • The smoothies come in three varieties: Mango, Peach and Strawberry.
  • The yogurts come in five varieties: Coconut, Mixed Berry, Peach, Pineapple and Strawberry.
  • Both product lines use bilingual (English and Hispanic) verbiage, to appeal to the brand's longtime Hispanic consumer base.
  • “LALA is the longtime U.S. leader in drinkable yogurt, capturing more than double the share of the second most popular brand,” said Kristen Williams, brand manager. “Greek yogurt is one of America’s favorite protein-packed snacks and our smoothies are the first drinkable Greek dairy product available nationwide. One in five Americans regularly eats on the run, but people don’t want to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. That’s why we created LALA Greek Smoothies--to be the Greek that goes with you.”
  • Both the smoothies and yogurts are gluten free and made with real fruit and natural sweeteners. They contain no high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors or artificial flavors.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • CHOBANI LAUNCHES NEW PRODUCT PLATFORMS AND MARKETING INITIATIVES (posted February 2, 2015)
  • America’s number-one Greek yogurt brand has a major portfolio expansion along with new marketing initiatives to continue its category leadership and deliver on its mission to provide better food for more people.
  • Its new platform designed specifically for kids and tots--Chobani Kids and Chobani Tots Greek Yogurt Pouches--prominently feature iconic Disney and Marvel characters, such as Winnie the Pooh and Spider-Man on packaging.  Additional characters including Doc McStuffins will launch in summer 2015.
  • Chobani Kids offers 8 grams of protein and 25% less sugar than the leading kids’ yogurt in kid-approved flavors, empowering kids to choose naturally delicious snacks, according to the company. Flavors are Banana, Chocolate Dust, Grape, Strawberry and Watermelon.
  • Chobani Tots Greek Yogurt Pouches are creamy whole milk Greek yogurt blended with real fruits and vegetables, 12 milligrams of omega-3 DHA, and live and active cultures. Varieties are Banana & Pumpkin and Mango & Spinach.
  • Chobani is also introducing Chobani Greek Yogurt Oats-Ancient Grain Blend, an extension of the brand’s recent take on oatmeal that offers a hearty breakfast using only natural ingredients in each cup with 10 grams of whole grains, 10 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber.
  • The new Ancient Grain Blend is packed with steel-cut oats, quinoa, chia, buckwheat and amaranth, creamy Greek yogurt and real, ripe fruit blended into two new flavors: Mixed Berry 5-Grain and Apricot 5-Grain.
  • The company also rolls out new products under its successful Chobani Flip Creations. The flavors are Chocolate Haze Craze (with hazelnuts) and Salted Caramel Crunch.
  • On the heels of the popular Limited Batch Pumpkin Spice and Apple Spice this fall, the newest Limited Batch Chobani Greek Yogurt flavors are now on shelves, while supplies last. They are Grape and Green Tea. The former proves grape isn’t a flavor just for kids.
  • The new Chobani Indulgent Greek Yogurt flavors are Dulce de Leche Caramel & Dark Chocolate and Double Chocolate Chunk.
  • “Flavor innovation is a big part of the specialness of our brand. We were the first Greek yogurt company to launch flavors like Pomegranate, Passion Fruit, Watermelon and Grapefruit, so it’s natural for us to be first with flavors like Green Tea that excite the shelf, the category and, importantly, our consumers,” says Peter McGuinness, chief marketing and brand officer.
  • “People are hungry for better food options throughout the day and we’ll continue to fuel our growth with products that fill gaps in the market and meet consumer needs,” he adds. “Our newest platform for kids and tots is one our most important, offering delicious, healthy food that has been designed especially for young ones. At the same time, platforms like Chobani Flip, Chobani Oats and Chobani Indulgent are bringing new people and excitement into the category. We see significant room for growth and, as the leader, we feel it’s our right, role and responsibility to curate the category with the best possible options out there. Our marketing in the coming year will focus especially on driving trial and raising awareness, including national campaigns, event marketing and sampling programs that introduce even more people to our products and the category.”

  • PRIVATE-LABEL INDULGENT YOGURT WITH TOPPINGS (posted January 28, 2015)
  • Publix introduces Premium, a dual-compartment indulgent yogurt line.
  • It is yogurt disguised as dessert, according to the website.
  • The 4.7-ounce containers come in 10 varieties, all with whole milk yogurt and a side of indulgent mix--ins.
  • Such “full-fat goodness” is the #1 cultured dairy products trends of 2015. To read more, link HERE.
  • The 10 varieties are:
  • Apple Cobbler with Crumble Crust
  • Cherries Jubilee with Choco Oatmeal Clusters
  • Coconut with Coconut Almond Granola Pieces
  • French Vanilla with Honey Almond Granola
  • Key Lime Pie with Graham Cookie Pieces
  • Mint with Peppermint Cups
  • Pineapple Mojito with Sea Salt Toasted-Coconut Granola
  • Santa's White Christmas with Mocha Chips
  • Strawberry Shortcake with Cookie Bits
  • White Chocolate Raspberry with Raspberry Chocolate Cups
  • A single-serve container contain 230 to 240 calories, depending on variety, and 9 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • DEBUTED AT THE FANCY FOOD: ORGANIC TRI-LAYERED YOGURT (posted January 19, 2015)
  • Stonyfield introduces Oh My Yog!
  • The top layer is cream, the middle layer is honey-sweetened whole milk yogurt and the bottom is flavorful fruit, or in the case of the Madagascar Vanilla Bean variety, vanilla-infused yogurt.
  • The fruit varieties are: Apple Cinnamon, Gingered Pear, Orange Cranberry, Pacific Coast Strawberry and Wild Quebec Blueberry.
  • Each 6-ounce cup contains 190 calories, 5 grams of fat and 7 grams of protein.
  • This product is right on target with Cultured Dairy Product Trends 2015, which can be viewed HERE.
  • The company filed to trademark “Oh My Yog!” on June 23, 2014, and it was issued on Dec. 16, 2014.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • A TRIFECTA IN YOGURT (posted January 12, 2015)
  • To answer many consumers’ desire for a protein snack with a stronger nutritional profile, Dannon has created Oikos Triple Zero. 
  • Oikos Triple Zero packs in 15 grams of protein in each 5.3-ounce single-serve cup.
  • The “triple zero” refers to the fact that the yogurt has zero added sugar, zero artificial sweeteners and zero fat.
  • To sweeten the yogurt without adding sugar, the formulation relies on a variety of technologies, including stevia; chicory root fiber, which contributes sweetness while also delivering 6 grams of fiber per serving; and the lactase enzyme.
  • The product’s formulation, along with its marketing platform (the brand is the official yogurt of the National Football League), showcase Dannon’s continued efforts to engage a wider audience and expand its once predominantly female consumer base to include men.
  • The company is teaming-up with Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton to promote the product and the power of dairy proteins.
  • In a new advertising campaign unveiled today, Dannon and Newton encourage consumers to look beyond traditional staples for protein. Recruiting shoppers from the protein snack aisle into the yogurt aisle, the Panthers star puts his own personal flair in helping to change people’s snacking habits.
  • “As an athlete, I pay close attention to what I eat, whether it’s between meals or after working out,” says two-time NFL Pro Bowler Newton. “It’s funny because I really do find myself searching the grocery store for new protein snack options. Oikos Triple Zero was quite honestly right up my alley, not only because of its nutritional benefits, but because it tastes good too.”
  • “There aren’t many great choices for protein snacks that also have other important nutrients,” says Art D’Elia, vice president of marketing for Dannon. “As America’s largest yogurt maker, we have a commitment and an opportunity to help Americans live healthier lives through the food choices they make. Oikos Triple Zero does exactly that.”
  • Dannon is supporting the launch of the product with a multi-million dollar media investment.
  • With the goal of expanding its once predominantly female consumer, the brand will be exploring integrated partnerships with television networks with a high male viewership. The brand will also be a presenting sponsor of various NFL Network shows and plans to active full NFL.com takeovers. 
  • Oikos Triple Zero comes in six flavors: Banana Crème, Coconut Crème, Mixed Berry, Peach, Strawberry and Vanilla.

  • YOGURT AND JUICE LOWER-SUGAR BEVERAGE (posted January 5, 2015)
  • Yoplait introduces Yogurt & Juice Nonfat Beverage with natural, alternative sweeteners.
  • Sold in half-gallon, gable-top cartons, the yogurt and juice drinks are sweetened with sugar and fructose, as well as monkfruit juice concentrate and rebiana (stevia). The latter two help keep calories and added sugars low. 
  • An 8-ounce serving contains 110 to 120 calories and 19 to 22 grams of carbohydrates
  • Thanks to the addition of milk protein concentrate, a serving also provides 6 grams of protein.
  • The beverages are made with cultured nonfat milk and blends of fruit juices from concentrate.
  • They come in four varieties: Berry Pomegranate, Pineapple Mango, Strawberry, and Strawberry Banana.
  • For more information, link HERE.

  • PRIVATE-LABEL POUCH YOGURT (posted December 31, 2014)
  • Target now offers its own pouch yogurt, one of the hottest package forms for 2015.
  • The low-fat yogurt comes in 3.5-ounce pouches, with a four-pack box retailing for $3.99.
  • The five flavors--Banana Strawberry, Cotton Candy, Mixed Berry, Orange Vanilla and Strawberry—are designed to appeal to adults and children.
  • Naturally flavored with no artificial colors, the refrigerated yogurts tout the fact that they contain live and active cultures and are a good source of calcium.
  • A single-serving pouch contains 90 calories, 1.5 grams of fat and 5 grams of protein.
  • According to the plant code listed on the package, these pouches are being co-packed for Target Corp., by Commonwealth Dairy LLC, Brattleboro, Vt.

  • GREEK YOGURT GETS WHIPPED (posted December 22, 2014)
  • General Mills announced this past week that it will be adding more than 50 new items in the U.S. and globally in the second half of the company’s fiscal year 2015.
  • The products are designed to meet consumer demand for better-for-you snacks, simple ingredients, high protein, gluten-free and bold flavors.
  • The new product lineup includes Yoplait Greek 100 Whips.
  • Aeration provides the yogurt with a lighter texture and mouthfeel as compared to Yoplait Greek 100.
  • It also helps keep calories down, as air is calorie free.
  • The nonnutritive sweeteners acesulfame potassium and sucralose also help keep calories down, as well as added sugars.
  • Yoplait Greek 100 Whips come in the same 5.3-ounce container as Yoplait Greek 100, but the aeration yields a lighter product, weighing in at 4 ounces.  
  • Varieties are: Black Cherry, Blueberry, Lemon Meringue, Raspberry, Strawberry, Strawberry Cheesecake, Tropical and Vanilla Cupcake
  • The Yoplait Greek 100 line is also growing with the addition of Banana Caramel, Coconut, Honey and Orange Crème.
  • Yoplait Original adds two flavors: Caramel and Cookies and Cream.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com.

  • ALOE + YOGURT + FRUIT SHELF-STABLE BEVERAGES (posted December 3, 2014)
  • OKF introduces its second-generation drinkable aloe yogurt.
  • OKF Corp., a Korean beverage company, introduced Aloe Yogur King in 2012, with the majority of distribution in the U.S. and Europe.
  • The company recently introduced its second-generation concept--Aloe Yogos King—replacing the original concept.
  • This smooth yogurt drink has a unique texture because of the inclusion of aloe vera gel.
  • It comes in seven varieties: Banana, Blueberry, Mango, Original, Peach, Pineapple and Strawberry.
  • The new beverage contains fewer calories and less added sugars through the use of a sugar, fructose, honey and sucralose blend.
  • For comparison, a 12-ounce serving of the original concept (Aloe Yogur King) contained 150 calories, 0 grams fat, 35 grams of added sugar and 0 grams protein. The new version (Aloe Yogos King) contains 120 calories, 0 grams fat, 25 grams of added sugar and 1 gram protein.
  • Aloe Yogos King has a 2-year ambient shelf life, which means it does not contain live and active yogurt cultures. 
  • It comes in a variety of sizes in both cans and plastic bottles. The most common size being exported is the 500-milliliter (16.9-ounces) plastic bottle.
  • For more information, visit www.okf.kr.

  • YOGURT MADE WITH OLIVE OIL (posted November 25, 2014)
  • The Barcelona-based specialty food company Casa Ametller, or simply Ametller, has developed a low-fat yogurt called Yoligur, which uses olive oil to replace the saturated fats of milk.
  • The company says this makes for a healthier product, with packages carrying a “0% animal fat” claim. 
  • The product was selected from more than 1,700 entries to receive the SIAL Innovation 2014 in October at the SIAL expo in Paris. This prize recognizes the most innovative food products in the global marketplace. 
  • There are five varieties: Apple, Pear and Cinnamon; Figs and Thyme; Original; Persimmon and Peach; and Pomegranate and Orange.
  • For more information, visit www.yoligur.com.

  • THREE HAPPY COWS NOW MAKES DRINKABLE YOGURT (posted November 19, 2014)
  • Drinkable yogurt joins the new company’s Greek yogurt cup line.
  • Three Happy Cows, a Dallas-based yogurt company, was founded in 2011 with the goal of providing high-quality, great-tasting Greek and drinkable yogurts free of artificial hormones, artificial flavors and preservatives.
  • After a fire destroyed the Three Happy Cows plant, the brand was forced to halt production for several months while searching for a new production facility.
  • The cup yogurts made their happy return during spring 2014.
  • The drinkable yogurts recently started rolling out. 
  • Available in five flavors—Blueberry, Caramel, Mango, Pina Colada and Strawberry—the drinkable yogurts come in single-serve 7-ounce plastic bottles.
  • Each bottle contains 7 grams of protein, as well as 130 to 140 calories and 2 to 2.5 grams of fat, depending on variety.
  • “We could not be more excited to return to Texas retailers,” says Three Happy Cows Director of Marketing Brian Twomey. “After the fire, we had to take time to identify new production. It was difficult for us to be temporarily unavailable to consumers that truly loved our product. We are ecstatic to be back and better than ever.”
  • For more information, visit www.threehappycows.com.

  • DRINKABLE OATS AND YOGURT (posted November 10, 2014)
  • FrieslandCampina UK-owned milk drink Yazoo is rolling out the first new dairy product from the brand in more than 20 years.
  • New Yazoo Yogurt Smoothie is merchandised in the chilled smoothie drinks aisle and comes in two flavors: Mango & Pineapple and Strawberry & Raspberry.
  • According to ingredient legends, the smoothies contain 55% very low fat yogurt, 6% fruit juice from concentrate and 1% gluten-free oats. For added nutrition, the mixture is enhanced with whey permeate.
  • What distinguishes this smoothie from like products in the market is that it contains no lumps, no bumps and definitely no bits, according to the company. 
  • It also has no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners.
  • A 200-milliliter serving contains 110 calories, 0.5 grams of fat, 1 gram of fiber and 4.5 grams of protein.
  • The product launch is supported by the “Unbelievably Smooth” campaign, which includes TV, radio, social, PR and in-store shopper activation. The campaign aims to highlight the new product’s nutritional profile.
  • As a new kind of smoothie, it has been reported that FrieslandCampina expects Yazoo Yogurt Smoothie to support incremental category growth of approximately 15% over the next three years.
  • For more information, visit www.yazoo.co.uk.

  • YOGURT SHAKES WITH PROTEIN AND FIBER (posted November 3, 2014)
  • Dannon Light & Fit introduces a new drinkable cultured dairy concept.
  • The new Protein Shake comes in four flavors: Banana, Mixed Berry, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • Sold in four packs of 10-fluid-ounce bottles, the nonfat yogurt drinks are enhanced with milk protein concentrate and polydextrose to provide 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, respectively, per bottle.
  • Each bottle only contains 14 grams of sugar, including lactose, milk’s inherent sugar.
  • Added sugars are kept low through the use of two high-intensity sweeteners: sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
  • Added lactase also assists with keeping added sugars low, as the lactase enzyme breaks down lactose into its constituent monosaccharides, glucose and galactose, which are sweeter than lactose.
  • The lactase should also ensure that shakes are lactose free; however, package labels do not make the claim.
  • For more information, visit www.lightnfit.com.

  • ORGANIC GREEK YOGURT GETS A DOSE OF OMEGA-3s (posted October 27, 2014)
  • Stonyfield rolls out “Greek and Chia.”
  • This is more than Green yogurt with chia…this product tells a story.
  • There are three varieties: Blood Orange, Blueberry and (mixed berry) Strawberry, Raspberry and Cranberry.
  • The blueberry variety is described as “made with wild Quebec blueberries.”
  • The chia is described in multiple ways: Plump, soft and hydrated
  • Why added chia? Well, it’s a source of alpha linoleic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid.
  • Each 5.3-ounce cup delivers 500 milligrams of ALA.
  • Each single-serve cup also provides 130 to 140 calories, depending on variety, and 1 gram of fat and 12 grams of protein.
  • The chia contributes 1 gram of fiber per serving.
  • For more information, visit www.stonyfield.com.

  • GREEK YOGURT MELDS WITH WHOLE GRAIN OATS (posted October 15, 2014)
  • Chobani introduces Greek Yogurt Oats.
  • Chobani Oats bridges the breakfast gap between yogurt and oats, offering Chobani’s take on oatmeal.
  • This new breakfast-focused product is a blend of creamy Greek yogurt, with 10 grams of protein, 8 grams of whole grain and 3 grams of fiber from gluten-free steel-cut oats and real fruit.
  • A 5.3-ounce cup contains 160 calories and is loaded with all-natural, flavorful ingredients including real fruit and maple syrup.
  • It comes in four varieties: Apple Cinnamon, Banana Maple, Blueberry and Cranberry.
  • “From the beginning, we’ve been on a mission to make better food for more people, and with our Chobani Greek Yogurt Oats we’re doubling down on a better breakfast,” says Peter McGuinness, chief marketing and brand officer at Chobani.
  • For more information, visit www.chobani.com.

  • NEW YOGURT PLANT, NEW YOGURT PRODUCTS (Posted October 7, 2014)
  • Byrne Dairy celebrates its new yogurt plant—Byrne Hollow Farm—during a Grand Opening celebration tomorrow, Wednesday, October 8, 2014.
  • Located in Cortland, N.Y., the $30 million, 75,000-square-foot plant is currently dedicated to producing only yogurt, a new business for the 81-year-old company.
  • The company started co-packing yogurt at the end of June 2014 and will now start making both conventional and strained Greek varieties under its own label, Byrne Hollow.
  • According to SYR.com, the manufacturing plant houses new filling technology that enables the yogurt to stay fresh twice as long as it normally would.
  • Windows above the plant floor were included in the facility’s design to give public access, tours and viewing, as a growing number of consumers want to see how their food is being made.
  • The overall plan is to add cheese making and even an amphitheater one day, making it a dairy campus, not just a factory, according to SYR.com (June 30, 2014).
  • For more information, visit www.byrnedairy.com.

  • GRASS-FED MILK ORGANIC GREEK YOGURT (posted October 1, 2014)
  • Maple Hill Creamery is the first national U.S. dairy brand to receive Pennsylvania Certified Organic’s new 100% Grass-Fed Organic certification.
  • At Expo East, the company introduced a line of new whole milk Greek yogurt made with this certified milk.
  • Milk from grass-fed cows is said to have a more favorable fatty acid profile than milk from conventionally fed cows, according to the company.
  • Since the term grass-fed is not regulated by FDA, grass-based dairy farmers initiated the development of this third-party verification program to ensure the authenticity of products claiming to be grass-fed. This is important as many products claim grass-fed when the cow’s diet contains only a minimal amount of grass, which does not contain the beneficial properties of 100% grass-fed for the milk, the animal, the consumer and the environment.
  • “We are thrilled that Maple Hill Creamery has become the first national dairy brand to be third-party certified as 100% Grass-Fed,” says Tim Joseph, founding farmer and president. “In serving growing demand for grass-fed dairy, we believe the certification seal will enable consumers to feel confident in the choices they make for themselves and their families. It is our hope that grocery industry leaders will rely upon 100% Grass-Fed just as they rely upon third-party certification for terms like organic and non-GMO.”
  • The yogurt comes in six varieties: Blueberry, Peach, Plain, Raspberry, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • The authentically strained yogurt contains no added colors, artificial flavors or thickeners.
  • It also contains less added sugar than most Greek yogurt.
  • Each 5.3-ounce cup contains 130 to 150 calories, 5 to 14 grams of sugar and 11 to 12 grams of protein, depending on variety. Made from whole milk, they all contain 6 grams of fat.
  • The suggested retail price is $2.99 SRP.
  • For more information, visit www.maplehillcreamery.com.

  • IBEX ADDS FLAVORS AND GOES ORGANIC (posted September 24, 2014)
  • Skyland Foods showcases product updates at Expo East.
  • Skyland Foods was founded on two powerful ideas: eating nutritious food should be a delightful experience; and dairy products can do much more to address consumers’ health and wellness priorities.
  • With those principles, the company developed Ibex Drinkable Yogurt, which made its initial debut two years ago at Natural Products Expo East 2012 and was reported on HERE.
  • At this year’s Expo East, Ibex Drinkable Yogurt revealed its updated formula. The product is now certified organic and available in two new flavors. All varieties are made with a new functional formula packed with probiotics and prebiotics.
  • The new Ibex, which still features its signature black bottle and less-sugar approach, will begin rolling out in October 2014.
  • Made with milk from small family farms, each bottle contains 8 grams of protein and a mere 5 grams of added sugar.
  • The two new flavors are Coconut and Raspberry, which join Banana and Ginger. The new flavors replace Mint-Melon and Plain, which were part of the original line up.
  • The name Ibex refers to a mountain-going animal known for its dramatic appearance and physical gifts. Ancient mythology held that it possessed mystical, even curative, properties.
  • “The Ibex brand is all about helping people expect more from their food and get more from themselves,” says Skyland Foods Founder and CEO Brandon Partridge. “While yogurt has been a growing category in recent years, drinkable products have lagged, and we believe a fresh approach to these products can ignite additional growth in an already successful part of grocery store.”
  • For more information, visit www.skylandfoods.com.

  • NO-SUGAR-ADDED SKYR SMOOTHIE LINE GROWS WITH NEW FLAVOR (posted September 22, 2014)
  • B’more Organic, the first organic strained yogurt smoothie in the U.S., adds Strawberry Banana to its organic skyr line.
  • Viking settlers are believed to have brought the knowledge of how to make skyr with them from Norway to Iceland, according to the company.
  • Skyr is still a very popular product in Iceland, a country with the world’s second longest life expectancy.
  • Skyr looks and tastes like Greek yogurt. It’s made with skim milk, so it’s naturally very low in sugar and fat free. It’s also an excellent source of protein and calcium.
  • B’more Organic wants Americans to enjoy and reap the health benefits of this fermented dairy beverage.
  • No excuses for the lactose sensitive, as much of the lactose is consumed by the special bacteria cultures that give skyr its unique taste and pack it full of good-for-you probiotics.
  • B’more Organic’s foundation is based on local, family-owned and operated sustainable farming.
  • At Expo East, the company debuted Strawberry Banana Organic Skyr Smoothie, which joins the four original flavors: Banana, Caffe Latte, Mango Banana and Vanilla.
  • The cultured beverages come in 16-ounce plastic bottles, with an 8-ounce serving containing 118 to 130 calories, 6 to 14 grams of sugar and 15 to 23 grams of protein, depending on variety.
  • Organic stevia keeps calories and sugar content low.
  • For more information, visit www.bmoreorganic.com.

  • POUCHED YOGURT FOR ACTIVE ADULTS
  • Arla Foods’ Melkunie Breaker brand goes high protein.
  • Melkunie Breaker High Protein is now available in The Netherlands.
  • The product comes in convenient, recloseable on-the-go pouches.
  • It is promoted as having extra protein (thanks to the addition of milk protein concentrate) to support muscle growth, the maintenance of normal bones and muscle recovery after exercise and sports.
  • The 200-gram pouches come in Mango Passionfruit and Vanilla varieties.
  • Each pouch contains 168 calories, 1.8 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein.
  • The protein version joins Breaker original, which debuted in 2001, when the company was “breaking” the dairy category norm by putting yogurt in a pouch.
  • The original line comes in varieties such as low-fat Banana, Cherries with Sunflower Seeds, Peaches with Sunflower Seeds, Raspberry and Strawberry.
  • A 200-gram Breaker original contains 200 to 230 calories, 4 to 8 grams of fat and 6 to 7 grams of protein, depending on variety.
  • There’s also a 0% fat Breaker in Strawberry.
  • For more information, visit www.breaker.nl.

  • NEW YOGURT STYLE HITS AUSTRALIAN MARKETPLACE (posted September 8, 2014)
  • MOO Premium Foods introduces Dahi Indian-Style Yoghurt.
  • Based in Adelaide, South Australia, MOO Premium Products makes Dahi readily available in supermarkets with this rollout.
  • This no-sugar-added yogurt is a mild alternative to Greek yogurt.
  • The product is made with three simple ingredients: full cream milk concentrate, skim milk concentrate and lactic acid cultures.
  • It is traditionally pot-set for a silky, smooth texture.
  • It is designed to be served plain, or as an ingredient with authentic savory or sweet Indian foods, as it has a cooling texture and light flavor that complements everything from curry to tandoori to rogan josh.
  • Being 98% fat free, a 500-gram cup contains 281 calories, 2 grams of fat, 7.1 grams of sugar (inherent milk sugars) and 4.6 grams of protein.
  • For more information, visit www.moopremiumfoods.com.au.

  • PRIVATE-LABEL PURPLE COW CREAMERY ENTERS REFRIGERATED YOGURT CATEGORY (posted September 2, 2014)
  • Supercenter retail giant Meijer debuts private-label refrigerated yogurt under the company’s infamous Purple Cow insignia.
  • First came Purple Cow ice cream, the happy legacy of Fred Meijer. For two generations, each of his stores boasted a Purple Cow ice cream shop.
  • In the fall of 2013, Purple Cow Creamery packaged retail pints and half gallons entered the market. Read about them HERE.
  • Now the creamery is producing refrigerated yogurt.
  • There are 32-ounce multi-serve tubs of Plain (whole milk, low fat and nonfat), Strawberry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla (light and low fat).
  • There are also 6-ounce single-serve cups that come in four packs.
  • The single-serve cups come in an array of varieties, including Blended, Fruit on Bottom and Light.
  • Flavors include Black Cherry, Blackberry, Blueberry, Boston Cream Pie, Mixed Berry, Orange Cream, Peach, Raspberry, Strawberry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla.
  • For more information, visit www.thepurplecow.com.

  • CHOBANI OFFERS NEW YOGURT OPTIONS (posted August 27, 2014)
  • The Greek yogurt leader introduces seasonal flavors, as well as a cooking companion.
  • Chobani offers two Limited Batch seasonal flavors in its blended Greek yogurt line.
  • Watermelon is made with watermelon blended with other natural flavors and contains 140 calories.
  • Pink Grapefruit is made with pink grapefruit pulp and grapefruit juice concentrate and contains 150 calories.
  • Both are made with 2% milk, with each 5.3-ounce cup containing 3 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein.
  • The company has also added a Plain Whole Milk Greek yogurt (4% fat) to its lineup.
  • Intended to be a cooking companion, the plain variety comes in 5.3- and 32-ounce cups.
  • The new whole milk Greek yogurt is richer, creamier and more indulgent than ever before, according to the company.
  • This protein-packed yogurt makes a great substitute for mayonnaise or sour cream in sandwiches, sauces and dips, and can easily replace oil or butter in most baking.
  • Other new flavors include Key Lime and Pineapple Coconut in the Simply 100 line and Flip now comes in a Clover Honey variant.
  • For more information, visit www.chobani.com.

  • POWERFUL YOGURT DEBUTS IN DRINKABLE FORMAT (posted August 18, 2014)
  • New shelf-stable drink is all about delivering dairy proteins.
  • The Powerful Yogurt Drink will begin shopping late this fall.
  • It comes in three flavors: Chocolate, Blueberry Açai and Vanilla Maple.
  • The base of the drink is the company’s premium Powerful Yogurt Greek yogurt, which gives the drink a high-protein, creamy starting point.
  • The Powerful Yogurt Drink has 20 grams of protein per 12-ounce serving and uses 100% all natural ingredients.
  • The shelf-stable drink is designed for on-the-go nutrition, whether it’s a busy day at the office or pre-/post-workout.
  • Because it is shelf stable, the drink does not contain live and active cultures like the refrigerated cup products. This drink is all about the protein.  
  • The drink is the fourth concept under the Powerful Yogurt brand. It follows the original Powerful Yogurt, Powerful Yogurt Plus and Powerful Yogurt Bars. (Link on product names for more information.)
  • When launched in the U.S. in March 2013, Powerful Yogurt was the country’s first Greek yogurt targeted specifically to men.
  • The product is differentiated from existing Greek yogurts by its 20 to 25 grams of natural protein per serving, which is a “man-sized” 8-ounce container that is at least 33% larger than most individual-serving Greek yogurts.
  • For more information, visit www.powerful.yt.      

  • PRODUCE AISLE BECOMES A SNACK DESTINATION (posted August 13, 2014)
  • Bolthouse Farms launches a line of fruit and veggie snacks for kids.
  • As one of the largest producers of baby carrots and premium juice beverages in North America, Bolthouse Farms is launching Bolthouse Farms Kids just in time for back to school.
  • The new line of kids’ snacks is based around real fruits and vegetables with no added preservatives and is designed for maximum kid craveability.
  • The new line features seven unique products across three categories: Fruit Tubes, Smoothies and Veggie Snackers.
  • The Fruit Tubes options are Mango Meets Banana & Pineapple, Strawberry Meets Banana and Blueberry Meets Raspberry with Greek Yogurt. The Fruit Tubes can be eaten out of the refrigerator for a creamy fruit experience or out of the freezer as a delicious frozen treat.
  • The Smoothies are 100% juice while Veggie Snackers are baby carrots with seasonings.
  • The products are designed to appeal to parents of children ages 4 to 11 years old. In consumer tests, kids and moms reported the products tasted fresh, were fun to eat and were great options for everyday snacking.
  • In line with the company’s mission to make the healthy choice the easy choice, Bolthouse Farms is helping retailers create a new snack destination for kids in the produce section, offering added convenience for parents looking to make smart choices for their children.
  • “The launch of Bolthouse Farms Kids underscores our commitment to continually inspire healthy eating in children through products and flavors that make fruits and vegetables fun,” says Jeff Dunn, president and CEO. “Junk food is winning the war on grabbing the attention of Americans, particularly our kids. Our hope is that by introducing a line of products that kids want to eat and moms can feel good about, we can drive a lasting love of these foods and a healthier future for the next generation.”
  • For more information, visit www.bolthouse.com.

  • YOGURT GOES UPSCALE BY USING WELSH MILK AND PREMIUM FRUIT COMPOTE (posted August 6, 2014)
  • U.K.’s Daffodil Foods shows yogurt can be a perfect 10.
  • The company’s new Luscious Layered Yogurts with the new Welsh slate design on the sleeve and vivid fruit photography comes in six mouth-watering flavors.
  • These dessert-style yogurts are made with Welsh milk yogurt layered over fruity compote.
  • Varieties are: Alphonso Mango & Passion Fruit, Fruity Raspberry, Senga Strawberry, Succulent Summer Berries, Timperley Rhubarb and Zesty Lemon.
  • The yogurts are made and packed in Wales, using locally sourced Welsh milk and Welsh cream, which is cultured with bifidobacteria.
  • The yogurts do not contain any colorings, modified starches, glucose syrups, artificial sweeteners or artificial flavorings, so they are perfect as a healthier dessert option, according to the company.
  • With a crystal clear unprinted pot, they look great on the dining room table.
  • The pot allows consumers to see exactly what they are buying and eating.
  • For more information, visit www.daffodilfoods.co.uk.

  • GOAT MILK YOGURT AND FRUIT POUCHES DEBUT (posted July 28, 2014)
  • Kabrita Goat Milk Yogurt and Fruit in easy to squeeze pouches is a new choice when it comes to feeding little ones.
  • Goat milk is known for its gentle, naturally easy-to-digest properties, making it an especially great solution for kids who experience the common problem of cow milk intolerance, which causes symptoms such as digestive upset, rashes and congestion.
  • “Cow milk intolerance occurs when components of cow milk--either the fat, lactose, protein or a combination of components--are digested poorly,” says Kate Morrison, board-certified naturopathic doctor, mom and co-founder of Kabrita North America. “If your little one suffers from this, they will likely tolerate goat milk very well.”
  • Kabrita Goat Milk Yogurt and Fruit comes in three toddler-approved flavors: Mixed Berry, Mango Peach, and Banana and Natural Vanilla Bean.
  • All three flavors are fortified with vitamins D, C and E to meet the nutritional needs of active toddlers.
  • The non-GMO yogurt uses milk from an AGA Grassfed Certified family farm, where no hormones or pesticides are used and the goats are handled with care.
  • The yogurt is now available for sale online with retail locations across the U.S. to follow soon. For a limited time, Kabrita is offering free shipping on all yogurt purchases.
  • Retail price is $2.89 per 4-ounce pouch, or $15.99 for a case of six.
  • For more information, visit www.kabritausa.com.

  • UNIQUE FLAVOR COMBOS FOR A TRIPLE DIP OF GREEK YOGURT FUN (posted July 22, 2014)
  • In the U.S., Ehrmann’s Mixim brand introduces two new varieties to its line of non-fat Greek yogurt, adding to the original six flavors launched in February 2014.
  • This new way to consume Greek yogurt provides a triple-dip of flavorful fun. The heart-shaped container has a serving of creamy, smooth plain Greek yogurt that is paired with two topping combinations to let consumers create their own taste sensations.
  • The new entries are: Maple Syrup with Waffle Pieces and Blueberry with Chocolate Chip Cookie Pieces.
  • “Mixim is a fresh and exciting way of enjoying Greek yogurt...your way,” says Chris Solly, CEO of Ehrmann USA. “Our heart-shaped container with its three separate chambers is the first difference you’ll notice. Then you peel back the lid and see that our creamy Greek fat-free yogurt comes with two perfectly paired toppings that can be added a little at a time or all at once. Our Mixim yogurt delivers all the nutritional benefits of a traditional Greek yogurt, but is a lot more fun, and can be enjoyed in numerous ways.”
  • The original six varieties are: Blackberry Pomegranate with Granola & Dried Fruits; Cherry and Chocolate Curls; Honey with Coconut & Almonds; Mango Pineapple with Coconut & Almonds; Raspberry with Dark and White Chocolate Curls; and Strawberries with Granola.
  • Each 5.3-ounce container is approximately 150 calories and delivers at least 10 grams of protein.
  • For more information, visit www.ehrmann-usa.com.

  • ALPINA FOODS REINVENTS YOGURT SMOOTHIE LINE (posted July 9, 2014)
  • The company enhances the formulation and packaging, as well as adds flavors.
  • The new formulation is described as being thicker with a creamier texture.
  • The 7-ounce smoothie is currently available in four flavors: Mango, Strawberry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla. The company plans to add more indulgent flavors to satisfy people’s sweet tooth, such as Cherry, Dulce de Leche and Tropical Coconut later this year.
  • Each single-serve bottle contains 120 to 130 calories, depending on flavor, as well as 7 grams of protein and a mere 2 grams of fat.
  • The yogurt smoothies also come in multi-serve, family-style half-gallon jugs.
  • “Alpina Yogurt Smoothies are the perfect on-the-go snack and are even a healthy dessert alternative,” says Gustavo Badino, general manger. “We’re excited to offer consumers a great-tasting dairy option that not only offers convenience but is also so indulgent, you’ll forget how good it is for you.”  
  • For more information, visit www.alpinaus.com.

  • A SIDE OF CANDY WITH YOGURT (posted June 3, 2014)
  • Iconic candies come in crunchy form atop a cup of yogurt.
  • YoCrunch, part of leading U.S. yogurt company Danone and known for its “topper” yogurt offerings, has        expanded its licensing agreement with Mars Inc., to now include crushed Twix or Snickers candies in the dome topper compartment.
  • The company provided a sneak peak at these two new offerings at the International Dairy Deli Bakery       Association (IDDBA) meeting in Denver.
  • Product will start appearing in U.S. retail dairy cases on July 1.
  • Each 6-ounce cup contains 180 calories, 4 grams of fat, and depending on variety, 5 to 6 grams of protein and       25 to 26 grams of sugars.
  • Front panels state that a serving is a “good source of protein and calcium.”
  • Like many other topper products from YoCrunch, these two new candy varieties carry the tagline: Great yogurt,    real fun.
  • For more information, visit www.yocrunch.com

  • WARM-WEATHER YOGURT FLAVORS (posted May 26, 2014)
  • Yoplait introduces limited-edition refreshing yogurt flavors.
  • Yoplait’s consumers have enjoyed seasonal flavors since the first limited-edition yogurts were introduced in the fall of 2012 with pumpkin pie and apple crisp. The demand continues to bring trending flavors they desire to the yogurt aisle.
  • The two flavors are: Margarita and Peach Sweet Tea.
  • “Consumers are continually looking for new and different ways to enjoy the goodness of yogurt,” says Blake  Holman, associate marketing manager. “The popularity of cocktail-inspired, sweet and refreshing flavored drinks rises when the weather gets warm. So in response to consumer’s desires, Yoplait took favorite flavors to sip and turned them into yogurt that can now be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether it’s a margarita with friends or     sweet tea on the porch, consumers love the variety and flavors but without actually consuming the real thing.”
  • Both flavors are a high in calcium and are a good source of vitamin D.
  • Yoplait Original Peach Sweet Tea-flavored yogurt contains 5 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving with 170 calories.
  • Yoplait Light Margarita-flavored yogurt contains 5 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving with 90 calories.
  • Yoplait Light features the Weight Watchers shield showing a PointsPlus value of 2 per serving.
  • In addition to coming in 6-ounce cups, the individual flavors come in four packs of 4-ounce cups.
  • There are also eight-count fridge packs of the 6-ounce cups containing four Yoplait Light Margarita and four Harvest Peach; and four Yoplait Original Peach Sweet Tea and four Strawberry.
  • The suggested retail price is 75 cents per 6-ounce cup, $2.79 per 4-ounce four-pack and $5.75 per 6-ounce eight-count fridge packs.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com.

  • CEREAL BOWL LINE FOR THE YOGURT CASE (posted May 19, 2014)
  • Powerhouse breakfast brands combine for new convenient breakfast solution.
  • YoCrunch, now part of leading U.S. yogurt company Danone and known for its “topper” yogurt offerings, is  partnering with Kellogg Company, a global leader in cereal and snack solutions, to introduce the most innovative topper yet, YoCrunch Cereal Bowl.  
  • The YoCrunch Cereal Bowl combines favorite Kellogg’s cereals, such as Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops and      Special K, in a new dome-shaped top with YoCrunch yogurt.
  • Consumers combine the yogurt and cereal and shake to achieve a perfectly blended flavor combination.
  • “Nearly two-thirds of yogurt consumers are already adding toppings to their yogurt, with cereal and grains        second in popularity only to fruit,” says Elliot Shifrin, senior brand manager, YoCrunch. “We are excited to partner with Kellogg’s to bring its strong brands and great-tasting cereals into the YoCrunch family, and expect that our consumers will be delighted with the ‘shake and eat’ container that delivers delicious flavor, convenience and the nutritious dose of fun they have come to expect from YoCrunch.”
  • “It is increasingly common for our consumers to enjoy their favorite Kellogg’s cereal with yogurt,” says Noel Geoffroy, senior vice president, marketing and innovation for Kellogg Company’s U.S. morning foods business.   “Our collaboration on the YoCrunch Cereal Bowls is the perfect marriage between two breakfast favorites, in an easy, convenient package that makes it simple and fun for people to enjoy the protein and other nutrition          benefits of yogurt and cereal for breakfast and snack occasions.”
  • “We are especially proud of this new partnership with Kellogg’s and this breakthrough offering for the yogurt aisle. By creating an all-in-one food, we can drive usage occasions for both yogurt and cereal,” says Steve Platt, chief marketing officer for YoCrunch. “This powerful brand partnership and unique new design will drive further growth    for our customers by expanding both categories.”
  • The 4.7-ounce YoCrunch Cereal Bowl line is rolling out right now and has a suggested retail price of $1.69.
  • The initial rollout includes five varieties. They are:
  • Greek Vanilla Nonfat Yogurt with Special K
  • Greek Strawberry Nonfat Yogurt with Special K
  • Vanilla Low-fat Yogurt with Frosted Flakes
  • Vanilla Low-fat Yogurt with Froot Loops
  • Vanilla Low-fat Yogurt with Krave

  • YOGURT AND YOGURT SMOOTHIES IN PORTABLE POUCHES (posted April 28, 2014)
  • St. Paul, MN-based Kemps LLC is the latest U.S. dairy to enter the growing cultured dairy pouch business.
  • The company made its first shipment this past week and product will start appearing in dairy cases today!
  • The company offers two concepts: a 2X the protein yogurt and a “slurpable” yogurt smoothie.
  • The 113-milliliter Yogurt To Go pouches, which carry the tagline of “Never slow down to snack,” come in three flavors: Mixed Up Berry, Smashing Strawberry and Strawberry Banana.
  • The ingredient legend reads: Low Fat Milk, Ultrafiltered Skim Milk, Sugar, Milk Protein Concentrate, Contains 2% Or Less Of Natural Flavor, Vegetable Juice (color), Rebiana And Monk Fruit Juice Concentrate (sweeteners), Corn Syrup, Food Starch-modified (corn & Tapioca), Salt, Pectin, Carrageenan, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3, Live And Active Cultures.
  • Each pouch contains 110 calories, 1 gram of fat, 8 grams of protein and 16 grams of sugar.
  • The 118-milliliter Yogurt Smoothie To Go pouches, which carry the tagline of “Slurp it down,” come in two flavors: PomBerry and Strawberry Splash.
  • The ingredient legend reads: Low Fat Milk, Sugar, Contains 2% Or Less Of Natural Flavors, Fruit And Vegetable Juice Concentrate (color), Food Starch-modified (corn And Tapioca), Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate (preservative), Live And Active Cultures.
  • Each pouch contains 100 calories, 1 gram of fat, 4 grams of protein and 16 grams of sugar.
  • Both product lines sport a gluten-free claim.
  • They are sold in four-pack combo cartons.
  • For more information, visit www.kemps.com.

  • MEN’S YOGURT NOW AVAILABLE IN BULGARIA (posted April 21, 2014)
  • Danone develops a yogurt with men’s taste, texture and packaging preferences in mind.
  • The global yogurt powerhouse launched its own yogurt product line for men in Bulgaria in summer 2013.
  • The successful concept is currently being expanded to other markets.
  • In a number of studies, Danone Bulgaria found that Bulgarian men prefer yogurt products with a thick consistency and a high-fat content. Natural ingredients were also preferred.
  • The company also learned about package and design preferences, which influenced the company to feature a deep black color, a symbol of strength and dominance. Straightforward, minimalist graphics also appeal to the male aesthetic sense. The masculine need for clear structures is reflected in a unique cup shape.
  • The shape of the sleeved cup presented a technical challenge, especially with respect to the filling process, according to the package designer.
  • The line includes two cups sizes: 190 and 370 grams.
  • The yogurt contains 5% milkfat and comes in two extra-thick varieties: Peach Slices and Walnut Pieces.
  • The cup products are so thick they can be consumed with a fork.
  • There is also a drinkable plain version.
  • For more information, www.danone.bg.

  • PROBIOTIC YOGURT DRINKS WITH BENEFITS (posted April 14, 2014)
  • Origin Food Group introduces Vida, a line of probiotic drinkable yogurts enhanced with functional ingredients.
  • There are three formulations, all of which are a good source of fiber and high in calcium.
  • A serving also contains 200 million live and active cultures.
  • Awaken is positioned as a breakfast drink. It contains real bananas and strawberries and is fortified with essential vitamins.
  • Invigor contains plant-based, heart-healthy phytosterols. It is flavored with mango and guanabana.
  • Rejuvenate is made with acai, blueberries and pomegranate. It is enhanced with CoQ10 and vitamin E, both of which are associated with producing energy for cell growth.
  • Vida comes in multi-serve 32-ounce plastic bottles.
  • The company also makes Früsh, a line of premium fruit and yogurt smoothies. The product was launched in 2012. You can read more about it HERE.
  • For more information, visit www.originfoodgroup.com.

  • PRIVATE-LABEL YOGURT POUCHES FOR KIDS (posted April 10, 2014)
  • Discount private-label retailer Aldi jumps on the yogurt pouch bandwagon.
  • The new Yogurt Squeezies product line is part of the retailer’s growing SimplyNature brand.
  • The product comes in one combo box of four 3.5-ounce pouches. There are two of each Mixed Berry and Strawberry-Banana.
  • Each low-fat yogurt pouch contains 90 calories.
  • Front panels tout that the product is made with all-natural ingredients; is a good source of calcium and vitamins A and D; and contains live and active cultures.
  • The four-pack debuted with a special promotional price of $1.99.


  • Read about this product in the Powerful Proteins Come from Milk blog posted April 3, 2104. Link HERE.

  • PREMIUM PROBIOTIC YOGURT WITH ANTIOXIDANT-RICH DARK CHOCOLATE CHIPS (posted March 31, 2014)
  • Johanna Companies, under its flagship La Yogurt brand, has created an entirely new way to enjoy yogurt with new La Chocolãt.
  • This indulgent low-fat yogurt serves as a snack or dessert, providing a healthful way to satisfy chocolate cravings.
  • La Chocolãt gives every chocolate lover “permission to indulge” and the package design instantly conveys that message.
  • Made with real dark chocolate chips (naturally rich in antioxidants) plus added immunity and digestive benefits of probiotic low-fat yogurt, the La Chocolãt package design communicates the brand’s unique position with packaging that instantly tells the indulgent chocolate story. Messaging strongly conveys flavor and rich dark chocolate.
  • The full 6-ounce shrink-sleeve cups employ a range of warm, chocolaty tones contrasting the La Chocolãt branding, elegantly rendered in metallic gold inks.  
  • Each flavor is flanked by a mouth-watering illustration of dark chocolate chip-infused yogurt combinations such as Banana, Cherry, Mint, Mocha, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • Even the lids, printed with pantone gold metallic inks on foil, add to the premium chocolate cue--reminiscent of unwrapping the foil from your favorite piece of chocolate--in which you just can’t wait to taste.
  • Fortified with vitamins A and D, and labeled as gluten-free, each serving contains 190 to 200 calories, depending on variety, as well as 2.5 grams of fat and 7 grams of protein.
  • The five-variety line debuted in the Northeast and select Southeast markets, where distribution is growing. The brand will expand into the Mid-Atlantic region this summer.
  • The suggested retail price is 99 cents to $1.19.
  • For more information, visit www.layogurt.com/lachocolatfb.

  • NEWMAN’S OWN GETS INTO THE YOGURT BUSINESS (posted March 27, 2014)
  • Newman’s Own introduces Newman’s Own Greek Nonfat Yogurt to its lineup of great-tasting, philanthropy-driven products.
  • The “All Profits to Charity” business model hopes to attract Greek yogurt consumers.
  • The company’s business model has led to $400 million in charitable donations.
  • The five-variety line is being introduced in Boston, where Newman’s Own first launched all of its products since the company started in 1982. Very soon, distribution will expand to other major markets in the Northeast.
  • The difference in the Newman’s Own Greek Nonfat Yogurt is the fruit--big pieces of delicious fruit on the bottom--plus a thicker, creamier yogurt texture, according to the company.
  • The five varieties are: Black Cherry, Blueberry, Peach, Pineapple and Strawberry.
  • Each 5.3-ounce container provides 12 grams of protein, five live and active cultures and zero grams of fat. It is all natural, with no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
  • The suggested retail price is $1.49.
  • For more information, visit www.newmansown.com.


  • NOT ONE, NOT TWO, BUT THREE HAPPY COWS ARE MAKING YOGURT (posted March 19, 2014)
  • Rich, creamy and ridiculously thick is how this company describes its refrigerated, authentically strained Greek Yogurt.
  • Three Happy Cows, a Dallas-based yogurt company, was founded in 2011 with the goal of providing high-quality, great-tasting Greek and drinkable yogurt free of artificial hormones, artificial flavors and preservatives.
  • After a fire destroyed the Three Happy Cows plant, the brand was forced to halt production for several months while searching for a new production facility.
  • Cup yogurts made their happy return during Natural Products Expo West.
  • “We could not be more excited to return to Texas retailers,” says Three Happy Cows Director of Marketing Brian Twomey. “After the fire, we had to take time to identify new production. It was difficult for us to be temporarily unavailable to consumers that truly loved our product. However, the time enabled us to develop a new flavor, Vanilla Bean, and update our packaging. We are ecstatic to be back and better than ever.”
  • Varieties are: Blueberry, Caramel, Strawberry and Vanilla Bean.
  •  Each 5.3-ounce cup contains 160 calories, 3 grams of fat and 15 grams of protein and is loaded with live and active yogurt and probiotic cultures.
  • “Retailers have welcomed Three Happy Cows products onto shelves,” Twomey said. “The ridiculously thick, fork-worthy texture and non-tart taste profile are unique qualities that set us apart from consumers’ many yogurt choices. We are excited for the opportunity to continue to grow and share Three Happy Cows with new communities throughout the U.S.” Regional expansion includes Colorado, Oklahoma and the Midwest by the end of 2014. The next phase will focus on West Coast distribution.
  • The suggested retail price is $1.79.
  • For more information, visit www.threehappycows.com.

  • VEGETABLES MEET DAIRY IN NEW DRINKABLE KEFIR (Posted March 10, 2014)
  • Squeezing more veggies as well as more probiotics into one’s diet just got easier with new Veggie Kefir from Lifeway Foods Inc.
  • The first veggie/kefir combo on the market, this savory smoothie comes in three varieties--Beet, Cucumber and Tomato—for a great change of pace from fruity probiotic fare.
  • The drinks not only provide a powerhouse of flavor without the added sugar, but also delivers a double dose of “healthy” by packing one full serving of vegetables as well as 12 probiotic cultures into every 8-ounce bottle.
  • Lifeway’s segue into a new food group introduces an extra boost of antioxidants and beneficial nutrients from vegetables, on top of the immunity- and digestion-enhancing effects of kefir’s probiotics.
  • All three varieties are light and refreshing, 99% lactose-free, naturally gluten-free and brimming with 11 grams of protein per serving with just 2 grams of fat.
  • Lifeway Veggie Kefir will be available in 8-ounce individual bottles and four-packs this spring.
  • “Roughly half of our daily diet should consist of fruits and vegetables, according to the latest dietary guidelines, but most consumers fall short on the veggie side because vegetables aren’t as easy to consume as a banana or an apple,” says Julie Smolyansky, president and CEO.
  • “Our new Veggie Kefir is a simple way to increase your veggie consumption, drink your probiotics at the same time and cut down on sugar without sacrificing taste.”
  • For more information, visit www.kefir.com.

  • FIBER-ENRICHED, GREEK-STYLE DRINKABLE YOGURTS (posted March 5, 2014)
  • GlenOaks Farms adds Greek-style drinkable yogurts to its product lineup.
  • The new low-fat beverage, which comes in 24-fluid-ounce (multi-serving) plastic bottles, comes in three flavors: Peach, Raspberry and Strawberry.
  • This Greek-style product is lactose-free, gluten-free and is made from milk from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones.
  • Each bottle contains four servings, with a single 6-ounce serving containing 160 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 2 grams of fiber and 9 grams of protein.
  • The product gets its protein boost from the addition of milk protein concentrate.
  • The fiber, which is inulin derived from chicory root, is delivered via the fruit base.
  • For more information, visit www.glenoaksyogurt.com.

  • YOGURT SMOOTHIES FOR KIDS GET MAXED (posted February 26, 2014)
  • Danimals drinkable yogurt smoothies now come in a larger size.
  • Bigger kids require larger portions, bigger bottles and more dynamic flavors.
  • That’s what you get with new Danimals Smoothie Max, which comes in four packs of 7-fluid-ounce bottles.
  • Varieties are: Orange Cream Extreme, Rainbow Sherbet Burst, Strawberry Blitz and Ultimate Strawberry Banana.
  • A single bottle contains 120 calories, 1.5 grams of fat and 5 grams of protein.
  • Like other Danimals Smoothies, the new Max line contains no high-fructose corn syrup nor any artificial colors or flavors.
  • For more information, visit www.danimals.com.


  • DUAL-COMPARTMENT DECADENT YOGURT (posted February 19, 2014)
  • Muller yogurt, a beloved brand in Europe and now available throughout the U.S., is expanding its reach in the States with the launch of Muller Dark Chocolate with cherry, raspberry and pecan granola.
  • Each variety blends delectable dark chocolate shavings into silky low-fat yogurt and then pairs it with classic combinations of fruit or crunchy clusters.
  • New Muller Corner Dark Chocolate Cherry, Raspberry and Pecan Granola join other fan-favorite flavors like Muller Greek Corner Caramelized Almonds, Muller Corner Choco Balls and Muller FrutUp Luscious Lemon.
  • “We are dedicated to providing irresistible combinations that satisfy consumer’s desire for great-tasting food that they can still feel good about eating,” says Barbara Yehling, chief marketing officer at Muller Quaker Dairy.
  • All Muller yogurt varieties are made with reduced-fat, Grade A milk and are a good source of calcium and protein.
  • The two new fruit varieties contain 170 calories, 3 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein. The pecan granola variety has 210 calories, 6 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein.  
  • The 5.3-ounce dual-compartment yogurts have a suggested retail price of $1.29.
  • For more information, visit www.mullerquaker.com.

  • SINGLE-SERVE KEFIR FOR LITTLE HANDS (posted February 5, 2014)
  • Lifeway Foods introduces Probugs Blast.
  • The company extends its popular squeezable pouch kids’ kefir brand into a bottle.
  • There are four fun flavors for bigger kids.
  • Varieties are: Cherry Lime Supernova, Grape Galaxy, Peach Mango Moon and Strawberry Kiwi Comet.
  • These low-organic kefir drinks come in 3.5-ounce bottles and are sold in packs of four.
  • Each drink contains 12 live and active probiotic cultures and is 99% lactose and gluten free.
  • A single bottle contains 60 calories, 1 gram of fat, 9 grams of sugar and 5 grams of protein.
  • For more information, visit www.lifeway.net.

  • YOGURT GETS IN THE ZONE (posted January 30, 2014)
  • YoCrunch offers Zone Perfect co-branded protein-enhanced yogurts.
  • Like other YoCrunch yogurts, the Zone Perfect products come in a container with a dome top that holds flavorful mix-ins.
  • Zone Perfect comes in 6-ounce containers in packs of two.
  • The yogurt in the two varieties is the same: protein-rich vanilla yogurt. The toppings are what is different.
  • The one with Chocolate Peanut Butter Pieces contains 200 calories and 3.5 grams of fat.
  • The one with Double Dark Chocolate Pieces contains 190 calories and 2.5 grams of fat.
  • They both provide 16 grams of protein and 15 vitamins and minerals.
  • The protein enrichment comes from the addition of milk protein isolate and whey protein concentrate.
  • Paris-based Danone purchased YoCrunch in August 2013, a company founded in 1985 that had net sales of $110 million and double-digit growth in recent years.
  • For more information, visit www.yocrunch.com.

  • REFRIGERATED YOGURT POUCHES FOR BABIES, TODDLERS AND KIDS (posted January 20, 2014)
  • Stonyfield introduces a range of yogurt pouches to meet the nutritional needs of its youngest consumers.
  • Unlike pouch yogurt products in the market that are sold at ambient temperature, these pouches require refrigeration to keep the probiotic cultures alive and thriving.
  • As a first food, YoBaby is whole milk yogurt enhanced with fish-oil sourced DHA and EPA, omega-3 fatty acids associated with brain development.
  • YoToddler is a similar formulation, while YoKids is low-fat yogurt without omega-3 fatty acids.
  • All of the yogurts are fortified with vitamin D.
  • YoBaby comes in 3.4-ounce pouches in four varieties: Blueberry, Mango, Sweet Potato and Vanilla. Each pouch contains 100 calories and 3 grams of fat.
  • YoToddler comes in 3.7-ounce pouches in two varieties: Pear Spinach Mango and Strawberry Beet Raspberry. Each pouch contains 110 to 120 calories, depending on variety and 3.5 grams of fat.
  • YoKids comes in 3.7-ounce pouches in three varieties: Blueberry, Strawberry and Strawberry Banana. Each pouch contains 110 calories and 2 grams of fat.
  • The pouches are sold individually as well as in four packs. The suggested retail price is $1.49 and $4.99, respectively.
  • For more information, visit www.stonyfield.com.

  • FARMSTYLE DEBUTS AS A NEW GREEK YOGURT VARIANT (posted January 8, 2014)
  • Tillamook, a farmer-owned cooperative, introduces authentically strained Farmstyle Greek Yogurt in innovative and classic flavors.
  • The line is made with no artificial flavors or colors, nor any artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup.
  • Tillamook Farmstyle Greek is a thick, creamy and less tart yogurt made with buttermilk cultures, while providing 14 grams of protein per serving.
  • To make this Greek yogurt distinctively “Farmstyle,” Tillamook slow churns farm-fresh milk with seven active yogurt and buttermilk cultures.
  • “This is a product unlike any other Greek yogurt available,” says Jay Allison, vice president of sales and marketing. “Our Farmstyle Greek Yogurt is made the right way and we’re confident that our fans will love this product. It took a while, but we got it right.”
  • Seven varieties are available in 5.3-ounce cups. They are: Cinnamon Hazelnut, Coffeehouse Blend, Honey Peach, Old Fashioned Vanilla, Oregon Blueberry, Oregon Strawberry and Washington Raspberry. The suggested retail price is $1.25.
  • There are also three varieties available in 32-ounce multi-serving tubs. They are Plain & Simple 0%, Plain & Simple 2% and Old Fashioned Vanilla. The suggested retail price is $5.99 to $6.99.
  • Most ingredients for the new Tillamook Farmstyle Greek line are locally sourced from the Pacific Northwest.
  • For more information, visit www.tillamook.com.

  • YOGURT SMOOTHIES IN UNIQUE FLAVOR COMBINATIONS (posted January 2, 2014)
  • Cacique reinvents its Yonique drinkable low-fat yogurts into a namesake yogurt smoothie line.
  • There are eight varieties. Five fruit-only varieties and three that are blended with cereal.
  • They are:  
  • Guava
  • Mango
  • Pecan with Cereal
  • Pina Colada
  • Prune with Cereal
  • Strawberry
  • Strawberry-Banana
  • Strawberry-Banana with Cereal
  • The cereal is wheat bran.
  • The pecan variety contains real dry-roasted pecans.
  • Each single-serve 7-ounce bottle contains 8 grams of protein and 120 to 150 calories, depending on variety.
  • Calories are kept low through the use of a blend of sugar and sucralose.
  • A serving is an excellent source (25%) of calcium.
  • Product labels tout the fact that they are made with “real fruit” and “real California milk.”
  • Labels also claim the inclusion of live and active cultures that help support digestive health. A logo states: Probiotics at work.
  • The suggested retail price is 79 cents.
  • For more information, visit www.caciqueinc.com.

  • CONSUMERS CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH NEW YOPLAIT LIMITED EDITION FLAVORS (posted December 25, 2013)
  • Fan-selected flavors are Mocha Mint and Peppermint Bark.
  • Yoplait fans voted for the winter seasonal flavors featured this holiday and Yoplait listened.
  • Yogurt lovers can enjoy the cool and minty winter flavors--Yoplait Light Mocha Mint and Yoplait Original Peppermint Bark--but only for a limited time.
  • “Yoplait’s consumers have enjoyed the spring and fall seasonal flavors and the demand continues to bring limited-time seasonal yogurts with trending flavors they desire,” says Blake Holman, associate marketing manager-Yoplait. “During the holidays, peppermint is a huge hit with consumers and our fans selected peppermint bark and mocha mint as the winter seasonal flavors they wanted Yoplait to make.”
  • Yoplait’s seasonal flavors not only satisfy by providing the immediate pleasure of an indulgent yet nutritious dessert, consumers can also use the new flavors to make some fun and trendy recipes for the holidays.
  • Recipes on the brand’s website include: Candy Cane Dip, Frozen Mocha Mint Cups, Mocha Mint Cordial Cups and Peppermint Bark Brownie Shots.
  • Both flavors are a good source of calcium and vitamin D.
  • Yoplait Light Mocha Mint contains 5 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving with 90 calories and Yoplait Original Peppermint Bark contains 5 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving with 170 calories.
  • Yoplait Light features the Weight Watchers shield showing a PointsPlus value of 2 per serving.
  • The suggested retail price per four-pack is $2.00.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com.


  • ALL-NATURAL 100-CALORIE STRAINED GREEK YOGURT (posted December 16, 2013)
  • Chobani introduces Simply 100 Greek Yogurt, a 100-calorie authentic strained Greek Yogurt made with only natural ingredients.
  • The product comes in six flavors: Black Cherry, Blueberry, Peach, Pineapple, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • To keep calories at 100, the yogurt is sweetened with a proprietary blend of three natural sweeteners: monk fruit, stevia leaf extract and evaporated cane juice.
  • “Our food philosophy is essential to our brand and evident in everything we make, say and do. Anything with the Chobani name has to be delicious, nutritious, made with only natural ingredients and accessible to everyone,” says Hamdi Ulukaya, founder and CEO of Chobani. “Until now, consumers looking for a 100-calorie Greek yogurt with natural ingredients haven’t had an option. For us, it’s about being best to market—and we think the time we’ve spent perfecting Chobani Simply 100 has resulted in a product worth the wait.”
  • Each 5.3-ounce single-serve cup of this nonfat yogurt contains 100 calories, 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber.
  • The fiber comes from the addition of chicory root fiber.
  • The suggested retail price is $1.29 per container.
  • For more information, visit www.chobani.com.

  • SWEET POTATO YOGURT JOINS OTHER VEGGIE FLAVORS (posted December 9, 2013)
  • Blue Hill grows its vegetable-flavored yogurt line.
  • Blue Hill has dairy in its roots. Blue Hill Farm—a family farm in the Berkshires, NY, and the original inspiration for the company’s Blue Hill restaurant in New York City and Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Pocantico Hills, NY—was a working dairy from the 1860s through the 1960s. Three decades later, the owners refurbished the farm and brought the dairy back to life.
  • The result is Blue Hill Yogurt, a line of whole milk yogurts made from grass-fed milk and locally grown vegetables.
  • The packaged retail cups first launched in September 2013, in three varieties: Beet, Carrot and Tomato. A few weeks later, Butternut Squash joined the line-up. And just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, Sweet Potato debuted.
  • Here’s what these innovative yogurts are made with:
  • Beet: Pasteurized Whole Milk, Roasted Beets, Honey, Raspberry Vinegar, Beet Juice Concentrate, Sea Salt, Live Active Cultures
  • Butternut Squash: Pasteurized Whole Milk, Roasted Butternut Squash, Fresh Sage, Sea Salt, Maple Sugar, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Clove, Live Active Cultures
  • Carrot: Pasteurized Whole Milk, Carrots, Water, Carrot Juice Concentrate, Sea Salt, Live Active Cultures
  • Sweet Potato: Grade A Pasteurized Whole Milk, Tomatoes, Red Onion, Honey, Maple Syrup, Sea Salt, Ginger Puree, Lemongrass, Maple Sugar, Vanilla Extract, White Pepper, Live Active Cultures
  • Tomato: Grade A Pasteurized Whole Milk, Tomatoes, Red Onion, Honey, Maple Syrup, Sea Salt, Ginger Puree, Lemongrass, Maple Sugar, Vanilla Extract, White Pepper, Live Active Cultures
  • Blue Hill Yogurt is currently available in select Whole Foods in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York.
  • A 6-ounce cup contains 100 to 120 calories, 4.5 to 6 grams of fat and 4 to 5 grams of protein, depending on variety.
  • A single container has a suggested retail price of $2.99.
  • For more information, visit www.bluehillyogurt.com.

  • FROSTED CINNAMON ROLL-FLAVORED DRINKABLE YOGURT (posted December 4, 2013)
  • Dannon’s most recent limited-edition seasonal kids’ yogurt drink is on trend with one of the hottest flavors for 2014: cinnamon.
  • New Frosted Cinnamon Roll Danimals Smoothies come in six-packs of 93-milliliter kid-sized bottles.
  • Like other Danimals Smoothies, this new flavor contains no high-fructose corn syrup, nor any artificial colors or flavors.
  • They also do not contain any fruit juice, and labels state this fact.
  • A single bottle contains 60 calories, 0.5 grams of fat, 10 grams of sugar and 2 grams of protein.
  • For more information, visit www.danimals.com.

  • REFRIGERATED YOGURT POUCHES DEBUT IN STATES (posted November 25, 2013)
  • YoYummy is the most recent addition to Green Mountain Creamery Made in Vermont yogurt, which is produced by Commonwealth Dairy LLC., a joint venture between Ehrmann USA, the U.S. subsidiary of Germany’s Ehrmann AG, and Commonwealth Yogurt.
  • Developed for children, YoYummy is a natural low-fat yogurt packaged in convenient squeezable pouches.
  • Unlike most other pouched yogurt products in the market that are shelf stable, which means they do not contain live and active cultures, YoYummy requires refrigeration. This ensures that the consumer gets a healthy dose of beneficial bacteria.
  • YoYummy comes in four flavors: Cotton Candy, Mixed Berry, Strawberry and Strawberry-Banana.
  • The 3.5-ounce pouches are sold in four packs in two different combinations: Cotton Candy and Strawberry-Banana, and Mixed Berry and Strawberry.
  • The suggested retail price is $4.99.
  • Like other products by the company, YoYummy does not contain any high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
  • Made with low-fat milk from Vermont cows not treated with any artificial growth hormones, each pouch contains 90 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, 14 grams of sugar and 5 grams of protein.
  • For more information, visit www.yoyummykids.com.

  • WINTER-SEASON YOGURTS DEBUT IN GERMANY (posted November 20, 2013)
  • Molkerei Söbbeke GmbH introduces four limited-edition flavors of premium yogurt.
  • The flavors are: Apple Raisin with Cinnamon, Pink Guava Mango, Plum Walnut, and Vanilla Almond with Cinnamon.
  • The limited-edition flavors are available from December to the end of February.
  • The premium 3.8% milkfat yogurts come in 500-gram multi-serving glass containers.
  • For more information, visit www.soebbeke.de.

  • DRINKABLE YOGURT MADE WITH GRASS-FED MILK (posted October 28, 2013)
  • Maple Hill Creamery uses organic whole milk from 100% grass-fed cows that graze on a handful of local farms in upstate New York.
  • These farms are located 75 miles or closer to Maple Hill’s processing facility in Stuyvesant, NY.
  • The new 12-ounce drinkable yogurt line comes in the same flavors as the company’s cup yogurts. Varieties are: Lemon, Maple, Orange Cream, Plain, Vanilla and Wild Blueberry.
  • A 6-ounce serving of the flavored drinkables contains 150 calories and 7 grams of both fat and protein.
  • They are sweetened with just a bit of organic sugar, keeping total sugars to 16 grams per 6-ounce serving, which is considerably less than most drinkable yogurts, according to the company.
  • The company uses a gentle, slow-culturing process, which yields a naturally thick product without any addition of thickeners or stabilizers.
  • Maple Hill Creamery was founded in 2009 with the simple desire to make the healthiest yogurt the founders could for their kids using certified organic milk from their own 100% grass-fed family cows. During the past few years, the company has grown from a completely family-run operation to a thriving small manufacturer of whole milk, European-style yogurt products.
  • For more information, visit www.maplehillcreamery.com.

  • TRIO-COMPARTMENT QUARK AND YOGURT PRODUCTS (posted October 8, 2013)
  • Ehrmann, with global headquarters in Germany and a recent expansion into the U.S., extends its unique Heart’s Desire trio-compartment container to now include quark and two complementary mix-ins.
  • The 150-gram package ranges in a quark content of 110 to 120 grams, along with 25 to 30 grams of fruit and the remainder being the crunchy mix-ins.
  • This product is a recipient of Anuga’s “taste 13” competition, which recognizes the best new products at the show. Congratulations!
  • The quark is whipped to make it light and fluffy.
  • Varieties are:
  • Apple-Pear & Chocolate Muesli
  • Apricot-Banana & Crunchy Muesli
  • Harvest Fruit & Chocolate Muesli
  • Strawberry & Crunchy Muesli
  • The company has also added two new decadent yogurt varieties: Country Raspberries & Chocolate Curls and Mandarin Cheesecake & Wafers
  • For Halloween, the company extends its Monster Backe brand to the trio-compartment container. Yogurt is the main component. The sweet, fruity component is strawberry, lemon or woodruff. The latter is a popular flavoring herb in Germany. The other compartment contains sour, fizzy candies.
  • For more information, visit www.ehrmann.de.

  • ASIAN-STYLE YOGURT (posted September 30, 2013)
  • Tarté Asian Yogurt has a lightly sweet flavor and is loaded with protein.
  • Though new to American consumers, Asian yogurt has deep roots in the French-influenced Indochina colonial period.
  • Tarté’s take on Asian yogurt originated in the Santa Monica, CA-based kitchen of brothers and company founders, Winston and Harry Lee. Their product was further developed in the Dairy Products Technology Center at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA.
  • Made with California-sourced milk, foil lids show the Real California Milk seal and tell the brothers’ story of the product’s conception.
  • The yogurt gets its lightly sweet flavor from the natural milk sugars that are caramelized during a slow-cooking process.
  • Extra sweetness comes from the use of a stevia-based sweetener, which keeps calories low (115 to 120 per serving).
  • With 13 to 14 grams of protein per 6-ounce cup, the product also packs in a billion probiotic cultures into each serving.
  • Tarté Asian Yogurt comes in five flavors: Original, Green Tea & Honey, Mango & Coconut, Blueberry & Acai, and Strawberry & Guanabana.
  • The suggested retail price is $1.79 per cup.
  • For more information, visit www.tarteyogurt.com.

  • NO SPOON REQUIRED--REAL GREEK YOGURT GETS POUCHED (posted September 23, 2013)
  • Chobani Greek Yogurt is now available in portable pouches.
  • This convenient form of authentic, strained yogurt is rolling out to the Australian marketplace.
  • The refrigerated yogurt is the same product available in cups, just now in recloseable 140-gram pouches.
  • Chobani’s unique authentic straining process requires three liters of milk to make one liter of yogurt, which gives it its thick texture, creamy taste and high-protein content.
  • “Our new Chobani Pouches provide an exciting and convenient way for Australians to experience authentic strained Greek yogurt that tastes delicious and is a good source of protein. Packed with 10 essential nutrients, including high-quality dairy protein and carbohydrate, it’s the ideal post-workout snack for people who are constantly on the go,” says Emily Houlahan, communications manager for Chobani Australia.
  • The fat-free, blended pouches of yogurt come in three flavors: Blueberry, Honey and Strawberry.
  • Chobani Greek Yogurt is free of preservatives, artificial colors and artificial flavors.
  • Each pouch contains 11 to 13 grams of protein, depending on variety.
  • “Australia is Chobani’s first market to introduce pouches so we’re very excited to be pioneering this format for the company in Australia,” says Peter Meek, managing director, Chobani Australia. “Feedback from our customers was that they would love to enjoy Chobani while they’re out and about, so we’ve developed Chobani Pouches to meet that need – no spoon required!”
  • The suggested retail price per pouch is AUD$1.99.
  • For more information, visit www.chobani.com.au.

  • GREEK YOGURT GETS DRINKABLE IN CANADA (posted September 11, 2013)
  • Astro introduces a drinkable version of its Greek yogurt, including a unique flavor.
  • Parmalat Canada’s Astro brand now offers a line of drinkable yogurts.
  • Each single-serve 200-milliliter bottle contains 160 calories and 12 grams of protein.
  • Flavors are: Strawberry, Raspberry Vanilla and Honeyberry.
  • The company explains on its website: A honeyberry looks similar to a blueberry. It has an excellent and unique flavor and tastes like a combination of blueberry and raspberry. Honeyberries are cultivated in North America, Japan and Russia, as well as in Canada in the Prairies, Saguenay Region and Nova Scotia. Honeyberry fruits are suitable for fresh eating and can be substituted in almost any berry fruit recipe, especially blueberry recipes with some adjustments for sweetness levels.
  • For more information, visit www.astro.ca.

  

  • VITAMIN C-CHARGED YOGURT SMOOTHIE (posted September 4, 2013)
  • Borden Dairy Co., a subsidiary of Group LALA, has reformulated and rebranded its Frusion Drinkable Yogurt, a former Dannon brand.
  • Frusion C-Charged is a six-flavor line of 7-ounce yogurt (with live and active cultures) smoothies packed with real fruit in the form of puree and sauce.
  • Each single-serve bottle contains a full day’s supply of vitamin C and half of your recommended daily dose of calcium. A serving is also a good source of protein.
  • The flavors are: Banana Berry, Kiwi Strawberry, Peach Passion, Pina Colada, Strawberry and Wild Berry.
  • The smoothies are sold in packs of four, as well as single-serve bottles.
  • The company has an aggressive introductory promotion via Facebook and its website that provides a full refund for trying one four-pack or four single bottles of Frusion when purchased between 7/22/13 and 10/15/13.
  • For more information, visit www.frusion.com.

  • SKYR YOGURT FOR KIDS (posted August 12, 2013)
  • siggi’s uses real fruit, simple ingredients and not a lot of sugar in its new yogurt tubes.
  • siggi’s launches its first kids’ product line: siggi’s squeezable yogurt tubes.
  • Just in time for back-to-school, the new line adheres to siggi’s commitment to low sugar, high protein and simple ingredients.
  • The tubes come in three flavors: Blueberry, Raspberry and Strawberry.
  • Each tube has 40% to 50% less sugar than the leading tube yogurt with more than twice the protein, according to the company.   
  • With no artificial sweeteners, colorings or preservatives, it’s simply a healthy snack for any lunchbox, breakfast or snack on the go.
  • “Added sugar in various forms is way too prevalent in children’s diets today even in normally healthy items such as yogurt,” says Siggi Hilmarsson, founder of siggi's dairy, “siggi’s was founded on the principal of creating authentic healthy yogurts that are low in sugar and contain simple, no-nonsense ingredients. We are thrilled to now add a much needed kid’s option to our lineup.”
  • The product debuted nationwide on August 1.
  • The kids’ product line joins the company’s siggi’s classic skyr yogurt, filmjölk drinkable yogurt and probiotic drinkable yogurt.
  • Skyr is the traditional yogurt of Iceland. It is made by incubating skim milk with live active cultures. The whey is strained away to make for a much thicker, creamier, concentrated yogurt. So to make just one cup of skyr, with all that water going out, you need three to four times the amount of milk required to make a regular cup of yogurt. As a result of this process, skyr contains two to three times the protein of standard yogurt.
  • For more information, visit www.siggisdairy.com

  

  • YOGURT WITH FRUIT (posted August 5, 2013)
  • Yoplait introduces whole milk yogurt loaded with fruit.
  • Yoplait Fruitful comes in six varieties: Blueberry, Cherries & Red Berries, Mango Pineapple & Orange, Peach, Pineapple and Strawberry.
  • Each 6-ounce container delivers one-third cup of real fruit.
  • Ingredient statements are clean and simple with products containing no artificial ingredients.
  • All varieties use premium fruit. Only the strawberry variety gets a little help with color through the inclusion of black carrot juice concentrate.
  • Each 6-ounce container delivers 150 to 170 calories, depending on variety, and 5 grams of both fat and protein.
  • For more information, visit www.generalmills.com.

  

  • ORGANIC LOWFAT KEFIR, FROM DOWN UNDER (posted July 30, 2013)
  • Wallaby Yogurt Company introduces Organic Lowfat Kefir.
  • This family-owned producer of organic yogurt is entering the growing drinkable kefir market.
  • Kefir is a probiotic milk beverage that contains a variety of live and active cultures, and has long been associated with different health benefits.
  • What was once a niche market in the United States, kefir has been growing in popularity as consumers become more aware of the healthful benefits of consuming this cultured milk beverage.
  • Wallaby Organic Lowfat Kefir comes in four different flavors: Blueberry, Strawberry, Vanilla and a traditional Plain.
  • A one-cup serving of Plain contains 90 calories, 2.5 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein.
  • A serving of the flavored varieties contains 150 calories, 2 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein.
  • Wallaby’s Organic Lowfat Kefir features 12 different strains of live and active kefir cultures, premium fruit and organic milk from pasture-based family farms. The company says the beverage is light, similar to a smoothie.
  • It comes in family-friendly, multi-serve 32-ounce plastic bottles with a suggested retail price of $4.29.
  • For more information, visit www.wallabyyogurt.com.

  

  • IMMUNE-BOOSTING DRINKABLE YOGURT (posted July 22, 2013)
  • Pro Defensis is made with a proprietary ingredient clinically proven to boost key immune cells.
  • Grupo Gloria, Peru’s largest commercial dairy company, is the first to use Wellmune WGP yeast-derived beta glucan in a drinkable yogurt product.
  • The beverage—Pro Defensis—was introduced during the first quarter of 2013 and is currently sold in supermarkets and convenience stores throughout Peru.
  • The proprietary bakers yeast 1,3/1,6 glucan ingredient, in combination with added probiotics, provides synergistic immune support.
  • Each 100-gram single-serve bottle contains 90 calories, 1.6 grams of fat and 2.5 grams of protein, along with 100 milligrams of the yeast-derived beta glucan ingredient.
  • Varieties are vanilla and strawberry flavors.
  • Wellmune WGP has been clinically proven to boost immune cells that help keep the body healthy.  These innate immune cells (neutrophils) have a life span of several days so the body is constantly producing new ones. To maintain optimum immunity, it’s best to take Wellmune on a daily basis, which is why dairy foods are an ideal delivery vehicle.
  • For more information, visit www.gloria.com.pe/Gyogurt_prodefensis.html.

  

  • CHUCK E. CHEESE GETS SQUEEZED INTO THE YOGURT CASE (posted July 11, 2013)
  • Family entertainment restaurant chain Chuck E. Cheese’s introduces refrigerated, squeezable yogurt.
  • Produced by Schreiber Foods, new Chuck E. Cheese’s Yogurt Squeezes are a 70-calorie squeezable snack.
  • Sold in boxes of 16 2.25-ounce tubes, the product comes in four flavors: strawberry, blueberry, melonberry and cotton candy.
  • “When it comes to food, our priorities are freshness and high-quality ingredients. This is reflected in our pizzas made to order with 100% real mozzarella cheese, shredded by hand in store, a salad bar freshly prepared every day and gluten-free pizza and cupcakes,” says Scott McDaniel, chief marketing officer at Chuck E. Cheese’s. “As we expand Chuck E. Cheese’s branded product offerings outside our stores with new Yogurt Squeezes, we’re committed to upholding that same promise to parents.”
  • Consumers who purchase the yogurt tubes receive $5 in savings on their next trip to Chuck E. Cheese’s restaurants. Two coupons on every box offer a $20 deal for 100 tokens and a $19.99 play package that includes one medium one-topping pizza, two drinks and 40 tokens.
  • For more information, visit chuckecheese.com/snacks.

  

  • GREEK YOGURT FOR INNOVATIVE MENU CREATIONS (posted May 29, 2013)
  • NRA 2013 had a very poor dairy showing…but Chobani made up for it!
  • Though the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago this past May 18 to 21 had very few exhibiting dairy companies, Chobani did its best to keep dairy on the menu.
  • To be specific, the company showed restaurant operators how they can get creative with Greek yogurt.
  • Chobani chefs created a number of savory and sweet Greek yogurt combinations for use as appetizers, dips and desserts.
  • The tastings, all made with Chobani yogurt, included:
  • Mango, Cucumber and Lime Salsa with 0% plain Greek yogurt
  • Pesto-Marinated Cherry Tomatoes, Balsamic, Garlic Bread Crumbs and 2% plain Greek yogurt
  • Strawberries, Graham Cracker Crumbles, White Chocolate and 0% vanilla Greek yogurt
  • Ancient Grain Granola, Fresh Blueberries, Wild Flower Honey and 0% strawberry Greek yogurt
  • Currently the company offers 0% plain, 2% plain and 0% vanilla Greek yogurt in 2-pound containers. The company is in the processing of rolling out these varieties in 5-pound tubs so that foodservice operators can get creative in the kitchen.

  

  • WHOLE MILK FLAVORED YOGURT FOR BABY (posted May 21, 2013)
  • Yoplait is the latest yogurt maker to join the baby yogurt extravaganza.
  • New Yoplait Baby comes in two flavors: Banana and Pear.
  • Packages tout the fact that the yogurt is made from just five simple ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners; however, a number of “mommy bloggers” have taken issue with the fact that the yogurts are only fruit flavored. They don’t actually contain any fruit.
  • The five ingredients are: cultured pasteurized Grade A whole milk, sugar, corn starch, natural flavor and turmeric extract (for color).
  • The product is designed for babies six months and older.
  • The product is sold in four packs of 3-ounce cups, with each cup containing 80 calories, 2.5 grams of fat and 9 grams of sugar.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com/products/yoplait-baby.

  

  • MADE-IN-WISCONSIN GREEK-STYLE YOGURT (posted May 13, 2013)
  • Award-winning feta cheesemaker decides to get cultured.
  • Klondike Cheese Co., adds Greek yogurt to its production line.
  • After experiencing the skill of making Greek yogurt first hand in Greece, this family-owned (fourth generation) cheesemaking company located in rural Wisconsin decided the time was right to extend its Odyssey brand of feta cheese to the latest craze in dairy: Greek yogurt.
  • The company is best known for its award-winning feta, Muenster, brick and havarti cheeses. And it plans on making a name in the refrigerated yogurt case—through both its own brand and private label.
  • Tradition is important to the company, which began making feta in 1988, the old-fashioned way. And this commitment to custom will carry through to the yogurt-making process.
  • According to the Wisconsin State Farmer, the Odyssey yogurt business is happening in a 33,000-square-foot addition to the Klondike cheesemaking plant. Two-thirds of the addition is for production and the rest is for product storage.
  • For all the details on the company, its plant expansion and its production plans, read the report at www.wisfarmer

  

  • DIPPING INTO GREEK YOGURT (posted May 8, 2013)
  • General Mills introduces Yoplait Greek Dippers.
  • The company shows consumers that Greek yogurt can be so much more than just a spoonable food.
  • New Yoplait Greek Yogurt with Nature Valley Crunchy Multigrain Chips consist of strawberry yogurt with honey and sea salt-flavored chips and honey vanilla yogurt with honey and sea salt-flavored chips.
  • Sold in packs of eight snack boxes (four of each flavor combo), each 5.3-ounce snack box contains a 4-ounce cup of yogurt and pack of dipping chips.
  • Each snack box delivers 270 calories, 11 grams of protein, 19 grams of whole grain and 2 grams of fiber.  
  • The product is currently in test market in select club stores.

  

  • FRUSH GETS CLOSE TO FRESH (posted May 1, 2013)
  • Frush is a new yogurt and fruit shake.
  • Loaded with fruit and cultured reduced-fat milk, the product is designed to taste like you made it fresh in your home blender.
  • It is produced in Statesville, NC, by a dairy new to the U.S. called Origin Food Group LLC.
  • The company has a strong presence in Ecuador under the brand Toni.
  • Frush debuted in February 2013 in select markets in the Northeast and South.
  • The beverage comes in four flavors: Blueberry, Peach, Strawberry and Strawberry Banana.
  • There are two sizes: the multi-serving 32-ounce bottle and the single-serve 8.4 ounce.
  • An 8-ounce serving contains 190 to 200 calories and 3 grams of fat. Added whey protein concentrate boosts the protein content to 9 grams.
  • For more information, visit www.gofrush.com

  

  • PROBIOTIC SHOT WITH L. CASEI (posted April 29, 2013)
  • LALA Foods offers five-packs of probiotic shots.
  • Grupo LALA is a Mexican dairy that expanded into the States in 2008 after acquiring a manufacturing plant in Omaha, Nebraska.
  • In 2009, LALA Foods acquired National Dairy, Farmland Dairies and Promised Land. Since, the company has been actively introducing Americans to many of its dairy products that are popular in Mexico.
  • Lalacult is a probiotic dairy beverage that contains 26 billion active Lactobacillus casei in every single-serve bottle.
  • Each 2.57-ounce shot-style bottle contains 35 calories. Calories are kept low through a sweetening combination of high fructose corn syrup and stevia.
  • L. casei is recognized for having a positive effect on the digestive system and with strengthening the immune system.
  • Lalacult comes in packs of five bottles in two varieties: Grape and Original.
  • For more information, visit www.lalafoods.com

  

  • CHEF-INSPIRED LASSI (posted April 23, 2013)
  • Lassi is a traditional Indian-style yogurt-based smoothie.
  • That Indian Drink is a new line of chef-crafted lassi that comes in three creative flavor combinations: Alphonso Mango (contains the essence of rose water), Blueberry Cardamom and Raspberry Cinnamon (contains a hint of ginger).
  • Developed by Ipshita Pall, a trained French culinary chef experienced in Indian-Latin fine dining, the drinks are made using the finest of ingredients, such as fresh blueberries from Michigan, whole juicy raspberries from British Columbia, Alphonso mangoes from the Konkan region in India and spices from around the world.
  • The drinks come in 8-ounce plastic bottles, with each containing 130 to 150 calories and 2 to 2.5 grams of fat, depending on variety.
  • Each bottle also delivers more than a full serving of fruit, probiotics, 7 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber (from the fruit).
  • The product is made with milk sourced from upstate New York and is available in select states across the country.
  • For more information, visit HERE. www.thatindiandrink.com

  

  • A NEW CONCEPT IN YOGHURT (posted April 16, 2013)
  • Land O’Lakes introduces Koru Creamery Style Yoghurt under its newly established Koru Dairy LLC business based in Arden Hills, MN.
  • Koru Creamery Style Yoghurt comes in five fruit-filled flavors: Pomegranate + Cherry, Peach, Passion Fruit, Strawberry + Goji and Mango.
  • Koru Creamery Style Yoghurt is made with simple, real ingredients and untraditionally sweetened with honey, fruit and pure sugar. This style of yoghurt, made with a touch of cream, has a texture that is silky and smooth.
  • According to the company: It is yoghurt done the way it is supposed to be. ‘great dairy no bull!’ is its tagline.  
  • Each 5.3-ounce cup contains 190 calories, and 7 grams of both fat and protein.
  • They retail for $1.49 and are currently available in more than 2,000 grocers in the Northeast United States and at select retailers in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.
  • So why spell yoghurt with an “h” like the Europeans? According to the company, it is just one of the things that makes this product different. The ‘H” stands for lots of things, including “heaven in a cup” and “honest.”
  • For more information, visit www.korudairy.com

  

  • GRASS-FED, ORGANIC ICELANDIC YOGURT (posted April 11, 2013)
  • New Smari yogurt is fat free and an excellent source of protein.
  • In Iceland, the strained yogurt known as skyr is thick, fat-free, low in sugar, and rich in protein and calcium. A signature food of Iceland since the 9th century, it kept the Vikings strong through long dark winters, where food preservation was essential.
  • Founder Smari Asmundsson learned the secrets of skyr making from an 82-year-old dairyman from Egilsstaoir. He advised, “Get the best milk. Skim the fat. Add live cultures. Let it set. Strain the liquid. When it looks really thykk, strain even more.”
  • Smari yogurt is made with milk from grass-fed Jersey and Guernsey cows.
  • Each 6-ounce cup delivers 20 grams of protein.
  • Varieties are: Blueberry, Pure, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • For more information, visit www.smariorganics.com.

  

  • TROPICAL COCKTAIL-FLAVORED YOGURTS (posted April 3, 2013)
  • Yogurt lovers can now enjoy the creamy and tropical goodness of spring flavors–Yoplait Light piña colada and Yoplait Original cosmopolitan-flavored yogurt–but only for a limited time.
  • By popular demand, consumers’ favorite flavors to sip on the beach can now be consumed by the spoonful.
  • Cocktail-inspired flavors are popular during seasonal times of the year. From coffees and creamers to marinades or desserts, to even beauty products, consumers love the variety and flavors but without actually consuming the real thing.
  • “Consumers are continually looking for new and different ways to enjoy the refreshing goodness of yogurt,” says Cameron Archibald, associate marketing manager, Yoplait. “The popularity of fruity and tropical flavored drinks rises when the weather gets warm. So in response to consumer’s desires, Yoplait took favorite flavors to sip and turned them into yogurt that can now be enjoyed any time of the day.”
  • The company is offering sweet and savory recipes using the new yogurt flavors, including piña colada cake pops, cosmopolitan bubble tea and the cosmo-pomegranate spring salad.
  • Both flavors are a good source of calcium and vitamin D.
  • Yoplait Light piña colada contains 5 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving with 90 calories and Yoplait Original cosmopolitan contains 5 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving with 170 calories.
  • Yoplait Light features the Weight Watchers shield showing a PointsPlus value of 2 per serving.
  • For a limited time, new Yoplait seasonal flavors are available nationally in four-packs and also available in a fridgepacks including four piña colada and four cosmopolitan cups with a suggested retail price of $2.00 per four-pack and $4.00 for a fridgepack.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com.

  

  • POWERFUL YOGURT FOR MEN (posted March 26, 2013)
  • All-natural, super-protein Greek yogurt is the first in the States designed specifically for men.
  • Powerful Yogurt is a super-protein Greek yogurt that aims to serve the health and performance needs of busy men with active lifestyles.
  • The product is differentiated from existing Greek yogurts by its 20 to 25 grams of natural protein per serving, which is a “man-sized” 8-ounce container that is at least 33% larger than most individual-serving Greek yogurts.
  • “We worked hard to create a product that would encourage men to stay healthy and energized in a world where eating well can be hard to do,” says Carlos Ramirez, founder and CEO. “We are thrilled by the immediate and incredibly positive response that people have had to the nutrition profile, taste and concept of Powerful Yogurt. Our focus now is expanding distribution to meet demand for the product and continuing to listen to the male audience as we build this new dairy category from the ground up.”
  • With its high protein content and seven active cultures, Powerful Yogurt is formulated to help men build muscle, burn fat and improve digestive health.
  • All six Powerful Yogurt flavors-- Apple Cinnamon, Banana, Blueberry Acai, Mango, Plain and Strawberry--are sold in the company’s signature black and red packaging.
  • For more information, visit www.powerful.yt. 

  • PASSION FRUIT AUSSIE-STYLE YOGURT (posted March 20, 2013)
  • Noosa Finest Yoghurt shares its passion for passion fruit with the introduction of its newest flavor.
  • As the seventh flavor in the Noosa family of all-natural yogurts, Noosa Passion Fruit is a wholesome, indulgent tropical blend of sweetness and tartness.
  • Noosa blends ripe, whole passion fruit puree with its trademark Australian-style yogurt known for its velvety texture and creaminess to bring customers this refreshing new flavor profile.
  • With a nod to Aussie tradition, Noosa has kept the fleshy seeds, called pips, in the blend, which offers added texture, flavor and nutrition. Passion fruit is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber.
  • “You could say we have a deep-seeded passion for passion fruit here at Noosa Finest Yoghurt,” says Koel Thomae, co-founder of Noosa Finest Yoghurt and a native of Australia. “We believe this new flavor addition to our family will be well-received by our customers who tend to appreciate a deliciously different kind of yogurt.”
  • The milk for Noosa yogurts comes from cows at the nearby family-owned Morning Fresh Dairy in Bellvue, CO.
  • Blended in small batches and infused with Colorado clover alfalfa honey and all-natural fruit purees, Noosa is available in Honey, Blueberry, Mango and Raspberry flavors, as well as the award-winning Strawberry Rhubarb and Peach and, now, Passion Fruit.
  • Noosa Finest Yoghurt is sold in more than 5,000 retailers nationwide, including Whole Foods, Target, Safeway and Fresh Market stores.
  • Noosa Finest Yoghurt was founded in 2009 by a collective of Aussie ex-pats and Colorado natives who set out to bring the best-tasting Aussie-style yogurt to the States.
  • The product is packaged in 8-ounce clear tubs so that consumers can see the ample quality fruit and creamy yogurt. A 4-ounce serving of the Passion Fruit variety contains 160 calories, 6 grams of fat and 9 grams of protein.
  • For more information, visit www.noosayoghurt.com.

  

  • KIDS’ YOGURT SMOOTHIE CONTAINS FRUITS AND VEGGIES (posted March 4, 2013)
  • As the only U.S. yogurt manufacturer to include vegetables in the variegate component of kids’ cup yogurt, Stonyfield shows us you can drink this great dairy + produce combo, too.
  • New YoKids Smoothies start with a base of organic low-fat yogurt and blend in organic fruit and vegetable purees.
  • There are two flavor combinations:
  • Strawbana contains carrot, strawberry and banana purees.
  • Very Berry contains sweet potato, raspberry and strawberry purees.
  • Packaged in 3.1-ounce bottles, which are similar to Danimals drinkable yogurts that are marketed by Dannon, Stonyfield’s “dot, dot, dot” liaison in the States, Organic YoKids Smoothies are sold in similar six packs, for about one-third more of the price.
  • Each single-serve bottle contains 70 to 80 calories, depending on variety, and 3 grams of protein.   
  • For more information, visit HERE.

  

  • NONFAT STRAINED AND BLENDED GREEK YOGURT (posted Feb. 27, 2013)
  • Fage introduces Fruyo, a line of 0% fat strained and blended Greek yogurt in seven varieties and two sizes.
  • The company’s Total Greek yogurt lines, which come in 2% and 0% fat, are a fruit-on-the-side concept. Fruyo does the blending ahead of time.
  • The 6-ounce single-serve cup comes in seven flavors: Blueberry, Cherry, Peach, Pineapple, Raspberry, Strawberry and Vanilla. Calories range from 150 to 170.
  • There is also a 17.6-ounce multi-serve container in Blueberry, Strawberry and Vanilla flavors.
  • For more information, visit www.fage.com

  

  • SAY OPA! FOR YOPA! (posted February 19, 2013)
  • YoCrunch introduces a new line of authentic, strained Greek yogurt called Yopa! and gymnastics gold medalist Gabby Douglas is flipping for it!
  • Yopa!, a contraction of Yo’ (short for yogurt) and Opa! (the Greek cheer for joy), combines the creamy, thick texture of Greek yogurt with a variety of toppings, including nine whole grain granola, toasted almonds and dark chocolate pieces.
  • The super-creamy, Greek non-fat yogurt, which is high in protein, is made in the traditional way and from regionally sourced milk, according to the company.
  • Self-proclaimed, life-long fan of YoCrunch, Gabby Douglas, the 2012 two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and 2012 Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, is serving as the spokeswoman for Yopa!
  • She is featured on the packaging, and in advertising and promotions.
  • The tagline for Yopa!, “Balance Perfected,” complements both Gabby’s athletic prowess and her zest for life.
  • “Growing up, I would always reach for YoCrunch because the variety of crunchy, flavorful toppings made me look forward to breakfast and it was something easy and affordable for my mom to give to me on the go,” says Douglas. “The new Yopa! cups are the perfect food for me to have before a morning workout because they are packed with protein and all-natural ingredients that fuel me up for hours.”
  • Yopa! celebrates its introduction with a unique “Like It or It’s Free” satisfaction guarantee. Consumers are encouraged to try Yopa! risk-free as a testament of the company’s confidence in its new product line.
  • The product sells for around $1.39 per cup and $3.49 per four-pack.
  • For more information, visit HERE.

  

  • EUROPEAN-STYLE CHOCOLATE-FLAVORED YOGURTS (posted February 12, 2013)
  • Private-label retailer Trader Joe’s marries chocolate and coffee with low-fat yogurt.
  • The company offers European Style Lowfat Yogurt in two varieties: Chocolate and Mocha.
  • Each 5.3-ounce container provides 130 calories, 2 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein.
  • The product retails for 99 cents.

  

  • ENHANCED-PROTEIN KIDS' YOGURT (posted February 4, 2013)
  • Yoplait Pro-Force is General Mills’ answer to an enhanced-protein yogurt for tweens and young teens.
  • With 2-times the protein of the leading kids’ yogurt, Pro-Force is a fantastic snack to help young all-stars bring their A-game to whatever they love most, whether it’s scoring that winning soccer goal or computing the math team to victory. It’s as healthy as it is deliciously fun.
  • Yoplait Pro-force is sold in packs of four kid-sized cups and comes in two flavors: Mixed Berry Burst and Strawberry.
  • Each 3.5-ounce cup contains 9 grams of protein, 90 calories and no fat, and is an excellent source of calcium.
  • The product contains no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. It is sweetened with sugar and flavored with fruit and natural flavors. It obtains its vibrant color from natural fruit purees and vegetable and fruit juices.
  • The yogurt gets its protein boost through the addition of milk protein concentrate.
  • To promote the product, the company is leveraging the popularity of action sports through a partnership with X Games Aspen.
  • The new packaging has vibrant colors and active-lifestyle imagery featuring X Games athletes/sports and logo.
  • “This is a perfect fit for Pro-Force as it lines up with what kids with active lifestyles are interested in,” says Ashley Karr, Yoplait Kids associate marketing manager. “The X Games are the pinnacle of action sports and achievement and Yoplait Pro-Force is a good source of protein that can help tomorrow’s all-stars reach their fullest potential—and have a blast while doing it.”
  • Yoplait Pro-Force rolled out with the “Bring Your A-Game” campaign, which focuses on helping parents get their kids to eat more protein.
  • The product was sampled at the X Games this past January 24 to 27.
  • A four-pack has a suggested retail price of $2.99.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com.

  

  • GREEK GODS GET KEFIR (posted January 28, 2013)
  • The Hain Celestial Group Inc., extends The Greek Gods brand to drinkable Kefir low-fat cultured milk.
  • It comes in four flavors: Plain, Honey, Honey Vanilla and Honey Strawberry.
  • A one-cup serving delivers 12 grams of protein and probiotic cultures.
  • It is also gluten free and 99% lactose free.
  • “With all of the qualities that customers expect from The Greek Gods brand Greek-Style Yogurt, we are now pleased to offer a drinkable format of The Greek Gods Kefir,” says Basel Nassar, chief operating officer of the Hain Refrigerated Foods Division.
  • For more information, visit www.greekgodsyogurt.com.

  

  • THE GREEK GODS GO CITRUS (posted November 7, 2012)
  • The Greek Gods Greek-Style Yogurt from The Hain Celestial Group Inc., is introducing two new flavors to its convenient 24-ounce family-sized yogurt lineup: Honey Orange and Honey Lemon.
  • Bright, tangy citrus coupled with sweetness from honey form the perfect complement to rich, creamy yogurt.
  • All The Greek Gods brand yogurts are gluten-free and contain live and active cultures. The yogurt is also made with milk from cows that are not treated with growth hormones.
  • The Greek Gods Greek-Style Yogurt recently crossed the Atlantic and is now being sold in the United Kingdom.
  • The product range includes 6-ounce individual packages and 24-ounce family packs in varieties such as Plain and Non-Fat Plain, Fig, Honey, Pomegranate, Honey Vanilla, Honey Blueberry, Honey Strawberry and Reduced-Fat Vanilla, Cinnamon and Orange.
  • For more information, visit www.greekgodsyogurt.com.

  

  • FRESH FRUIT YOGURT PARFAITS (posted October 25, 2012)
  • Fresh-cut produce and fresh foods marketer Ready Pac recognizes the value of pairing fruits and veggies with dairy.
  • The company’s most recent innovation is a line of fresh fruit yogurt parfaits.
  • There are five varieties: Apple, Apple/Mango, Blueberry, Grape and Mango.
  • Each 10-ounce parfait contains low-fat vanilla yogurt on the bottom with a packet of sweet and crunchy granola in the dome top that also contains the fresh fruit.
  • Calories range from 300 to 320, depending on variety.
  • A few months ago, just in time for back to school, the company introduced a new line of Disney-themed Ready Pac Cool Cuts salads and mini-meals designed for elementary and middle school children. You can view them HERE.
  • For more information, visit www.readypac.com

  

  • FLIPPING OUT FOR GREEK YOGURT (posted October 16, 2012)
  • Chobani is test marketing Flip, a concept that pairs Greek yogurt in one compartment with fruit in another.
  • The consumer “flips” the fruit into the yogurt and then is ready to enjoy.
  • The Northeast test market is on two 5.3-ounce varieties: Honey Low-Fat Yogurt with Bananas (150 calories, 2.5 grams of fat) and Vanilla Chocolate Chip Low-Fat Yogurt with Raspberries (165 calories and 4 grams of fat).
  • For more information, visit http://chobani.com/community/blog/2012/09/announcing-chobani-flip/

  

  • INNOVATIONS IN GOAT MILK YOGURT (posted September 27, 2012)
  • Coach Farm has trimmed the fat, up to 62%, on its current line of Goat Milk Yogurt’s to meet growing consumer demand for products lower in fat and calories.  
  • A new Maple Brown Sugar joins the current natural flavor line up of Honey, Plain, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • “The Greek-like consistency and subtle creamy goat milk flavor that consumers have grown to love about Coach Farm’s Goat Milk Yogurt will stay the same,” says Steven Margarites, president of Coach Farm. “The line will still be made in small batches on the farm, only difference is we have been able to drastically cut the fat and calories.”
  • The revamped line is replacing the current yogurt line.
  • All five flavors will be available nationally to retailers in 6-ounce containers with a suggested retail price of $1.99.  
  • For more information, visit www.coachfarm.com

  

  • BABIES GO BANANAS! (posted September 19, 2012)
  • Babies, actually toddlers, will be going bananas for Stonyfield’s latest addition to its YoToddler line of yogurts.
  • YoToddler Banana and Pumpkin is whole milk yogurt enhanced with omega-3 DHA, an essential fatty acid important for development.
  • Sold in four packs of 4-ounce cups, each single cup contains 100 calories, 3.5 grams of fat and 4 grams of protein.
  • During the summer of 2012, the company combined the YoBaby Meals and YoToddler lines under the YoToddler label. That means YoToddler now includes both fruit and cereal and fruit and veggie flavors.
  • As a part of this change, YoBaby Meals Apple Sweet Potato is now YoToddler Apple Sweet Potato, and YoBaby Meals Peach Squash, YoBaby Meals Pear Green Bean and YoToddler Apple will no longer be available. The company did add YoToddler Raspberry Pear to the lineup.
  • For more information, visit www.stonyfield.com/products/yobaby-yokids/all-about-yotoddler

  

  • YOGURT GETS SCARY! (posted September 18, 2012)
  • The YoCrunch Company, which takes pride in being the only yogurt company that is “all about the toppings,” is making yogurt a Halloween party must this year.  
  • The new Spooky Party Pack contains a dozen 6-ounce domed cups, half with M&Ms and half with Oreos.
  • Both varieties use low-fat vanilla yogurt as a base product.
  • The dozen cups come in a Halloween-themed cardboard carton, and the individual cups are also similarly decorated.
  • For more information, visit www.yocrunch.com

  

  • DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS DRINKABLE YOGURT (posted September 17, 2012)
  • Skyland Foods was founded on two powerful ideas: eating nutritious food should be a delightful experience; and dairy products can do much more to address consumers’ health and wellness priorities.
  • With those principles, the company developed IBEX Drinkable Yogurt, which will make its official debut at Natural Products Expo East later this week.
  • The product line is comprised of four, single-serve (8 fluid ounces) drinkable yogurts with functional health benefits.
  • Each variety has a different health benefit and flavor combination. They are:
  • IBEX Pure&Simple: The original formulation is cultured milk and sugar, pure and simple, as the name suggests. A bottle contains 130 calories and 3.5 grams of fat and delivers all the essential nutrition of yogurt.
  • IBEX Probiotic: This ginger-flavored cultured milk contains live and active acidophilus cultures and 3 grams of fiber to help balance the gastrointestinal system. A bottle contains 140 calories and 3.5 grams of fat.
  • IBEX BrainBoost: This mint melon-flavored cultured milk is enhanced with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential fatty acid that supports brain function and cognitive development. A bottle contains 140 calories and 3.5 grams of fat.
  • IBEX Recovery: This banana-flavored cultured milk provides an optimal blend of protein, carbs and other nutrients that help the body recover after working or playing hard. A bottle contains 140 calories and 3.5 grams of fat.
  • The name IBEX refers to a mountain-going animal known for its dramatic appearance and physical gifts. Ancient mythology held that it possessed mystical, even curative, properties.
  • “The IBEX brand is all about helping people expect more from their food and get more from themselves,” says Skyland Foods Founder and CEO Brandon Partridge. “While yogurt has been a growing category in recent years, drinkable products have lagged, and we believe a fresh approach to these products can ignite additional growth in an already successful part of grocery store.”
  • Skyland Foods is targeting distribution through the natural channel in the Mid-Atlantic region.
  • To learn more about the trend in formulating with botanicals such as ginger and mint, connect HERE and read the Sept. 14, 2012 BLOG..
  • For more information about IBEX, visit www.SkylandFoods.com

  

  • THE ULTIMATE IN YOGURT FOR CANADIANS (posted August 29, 2012)
  • In one of the largest product launches across Canada, Ultima Foods recently revealed its own national yogurt brand: iögo.
  • Made in Canada by Canadians and for Canadians, each iögo yogurt in the product range is free of artificial colors and flavors.  
  • With carefully crafted recipes and the freshest ingredients, iögo offers consumers more than 40 classic, exotic and delicious flavors, such as Lychee-Raspberry, Pineapple-Coconut-Banana and Melon Trio.
  • The range consists of seven product lines: iögo, iögo 0%, iögo Probio (probiotics), iögo Greko (Greek), iögo Nomad (drinkable), iögo Zip (in tubes) and iögo Nano (fresh cheese in small containers and yogurt in mini-bottles).
  • “iögo is a real first for Canada. It is the largest brand introduction for a Canadian company in our industry, making it truly bold, inventive and audacious,” says Gerry Doutre, president and CEO. “With  iögo, we have focused our 40 years of knowledge, consumer insights and  employee expertise to create a nutritious, made-in-Canada yogurt brand  that we know Canadian consumers will love and enjoy. At the same time, I am incredibly proud of our employees and partners for joining us on  this journey to redefine the yogurt market in Canada and set a higher  standard for quality, innovation and taste.”
  • With a streamlined package and compelling black-on-white pattern featuring delectable fruit, Ultima Foods’ iögo will simplify consumer choice through easily recognizable colors and packaging on store shelves.
  • For more information, visit www.iogo.ca.

  

  • MIXING CEREAL INTO YOGURT (posted August 28, 2012)
  • YoCrunch, the American brand that offers refrigerated yogurt with mix-in toppings in an attached dome top, introduces Breakfast Blends.
  • The new YoCrunch Breakfast Blends line includes Vanilla Nonfat Yogurt with Post Fruity Pebbles; and Greek Vanilla or Strawberry Yogurt with Post Honey Bunches of Oats.
  • Each Fruity Pebbles variety is gluten free and has just 100 calories. The product is available in four packs of 3.75-ounce cups with a suggested retail price of $2.89.
  • Each 6-ounce cup of the Honey Bunches of Oats varieties provides a good source of protein and vitamin C. Both varieties are available in twin-packs with a suggested retail price of $2.49.
  • Post cereals are used through a licensing agreement with Post Holdings Inc. The brand had been part of Kraft Foods Inc., up until November 2007.  Interestingly, YoCrunch has a number of licensing agreements with Kraft for use of its branded mix-in toppings, including Chips Ahoy! and Oreo. The Kraft connection goes further, as YoCrunch yogurts were previously cobranded with the Breyers brand, which at one point in time was owned by Kraft when the company was a player in the refrigerated yogurt business. The Breyers brand is no longer found on refrigerated yogurt.
  • For more information, visit www.yocrunch.com/products/breakfast-blends.

  

  • LIGHT YOGURT WITH FIBER (posted August 27, 2012)
  • The Yoplait brand now includes a Light with Fiber line.
  • Sold in four-packs of 4-ounce cups, each cup contains 50 calories, 5 grams of fiber, 4 grams of sugar, 3 grams of protein and no fat.
  • The ingredient statement shows that chicory root extract (inulin) is the fiber source.
  • Calories are kept low through the use of two high-intensity sweeteners: acesulfame potassium and aspartame.
  • Varieties are: Blueberry, Key Lime Pie, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • For more information, visit www.yoplait.com/products/yoplait-light-with-fiber.

  

  • SAY GOOD MORNING WITH ACTIVIA (posted August 20, 2012)
  • Dannon makes Activia yogurt part of the morning routine with new Breakfast Blend.
  • Mixed with grains and available in four “breakfast-style” flavors—Apple Cinnamon, Banana Bread, Maple & Brown Sugar and Vanilla--Activia Breakfast Blend is bigger (6 ounces), heartier (190 calories and 3 grams of fat) and has twice the protein (11 grams) of other Activia varieties.
  • But like all other Activia products, Breakfast Blend contains the company’s exclusive probiotic culture Bifidus Regularis (Bifidobacterium lactis DN-173 010).
  • Activia with Bifidus Regularis has been shown to naturally regulate the digestive system when consumed daily for two weeks as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
  • Each serving of Activia contains billions of natural Bifidus Regularis cultures, which survive passage through the digestive tract in sufficient amounts for Activia to have its beneficial effects.
  • For more information, visit www.activia.us.com/products/activia-breakfast-blend

  

  • YOGURT WITH DOUBLE THE FRUIT(posted August 15, 2012)
  • Yoplait Fruplait, the most recent innovation from General Mills, is a blend of Yoplait Original yogurt and fruit.
  • What makes Fruplait stand out from other yogurts is the fact that it contains double the amount of fruit, making it a little easier for consumers to meet their daily requirements for fruits and vegetables.
  • Packaged in clear plastic cups to show consumers the pieces of whole fruit, Fruplait is sold in four packs of 4-ounce cups at a suggested retail price of $2.89.
  • Flavors are Strawberry and Harvest Peach, with each serving containing 110 or 120 calories, respectively.
  • For more information, visit www.generalmills.com.

  

  • GREEN APPLE SWISS YOGURT (Posted August 10, 2012)
  • While Greek yogurt has been the source of category buzz for the past few years, the trend tide appears to be turning toward European-style yogurts--for those who desire a creamy, smooth texture with fresh fruit.
  • Leading this trend is Emmi Roth USA, the U.S. subsidiary of Emmi Group, a premier Swiss dairy company, whose Swiss-style yogurt is made with all natural, high-quality ingredients in unique flavors, including the most recent addition: Green Apple.
  • Early on, Swiss yogurt from Emmi was set apart by flavors that could not be found anywhere else in the dairy aisle, such as Apricot, Berry Pomegranate, Coffee and Pink Grapefruit, which can be found next to their more traditional flavors, such as Blueberry and Vanilla Bean.
  • In 2011, Emmi Roth updated its Swiss-style yogurt with a new formula that has more protein (8 to 10 grams per 6-ounce cup) and less sugar.
  • “Yogurt is a large and growing category, particularly European yogurt, and our high-quality ingredients, precise Swiss formula and distinctive flavors have set Emmi apart as a leader in the European yogurt trend,” says Guido Kaelin, vice president of marketing, Emmi of Switzerland.  
  • For more information, visit www.emmirothusa.com.

  

  • ORGANIC GREEK YOGURT DEBUTS ON WEST COAST (posted August 7, 2012)
  • Straus Family Creamery introduces Organic Greek Yogurt, the only non-GMO-verified, certified-organic Greek yogurt in the U.S. market, according to the company.
  • It is also certified kosher and gluten free.
  • No thickeners or stabilizers are ever used in any Straus Family Creamery yogurt products.
  • Organic Greek Yogurt is made with only two ingredients: Organic milk and live, active cultures.
  • All Straus Family Creamery products start with organic milk from the Straus and four other local, family-run dairies, with the products’ signature dairy flavor originating from the cows’ diet.
  • The cows graze mainly on sweet pasture grasses on the hillsides of Marin and Sonoma Counties along the Northern California Coast. The fertile soil, mild, coastal climate and fresh marine air generate grassland that is highly nutritious and unique for this area, which is ideal for dairy cows, says the company.
  • The yogurt is first slowly cultured and set in a stainless steel vat (not in the cup) and then carefully strained, which gives it its thick and silky texture, according to the company. 
  • With 6 grams more protein than Straus Family Creamery European-Style Yogurt, Organic Greek Yogurt is nutritionally beneficial, filling and great for people and families with a healthy, active lifestyle. (There’s 19 grams in an 8-ounce cup.)
  • The new Organic Greek Yogurt comes in quart-sized, 32-ounce cups in whole milk and nonfat varieties and has a suggested retail price of $6.49.
  • For more information, visit www.strausfamilycreamery.com.

  

  • GETTING READY FORTHE WINTER HOLIDAYS (posted July 31,2012)
  • The holidays are a time to celebrate and enjoy friends and family, but for many, twinkling lights mean it’s time to start counting calories to avoid overindulging.
  • Fortunately, Lifeway Food’s new Gingerbread Kefir is a delicious drink and an excellent source of protein to help curb cravings…all for only 140 calories and 2 grams of fat per 8-ounce serving.   
  • With fewer calories than most holiday desserts, Gingerbread Kefir contains 10 live and active probiotic cultures that support digestive health and immunity, is 99% lactose free (Read more about marketing to the lactose intolerant on the Daily Dose’s July 27 BLOG, which can be viewed HERE.), and provides 30% of one’s daily calcium requirement, making it a perfect pick-me-up for anyone with a sweet tooth and an eye on nutrition.
  • Lifeway Kefir is also available in seasonal Cranberry Crème Brulee and Pumpkin Spice varieties.
  • For more information, visit www.lifeway.net.

  

  • JOINT VENTURE TURNS OUT THREE VARIETIES OF YOGURT (posted July 13, 2012)
  • The new Müller Quaker Dairy joint venture includes 16 stock-keeping units (SKUs), representing three different lines.
  • Müller Corner and Müller Greek Corner come in a dual-compartment, square-shaped container. The add-ins can be flipped, stirred or dipped into the yogurt. Corner varieties include Blueberry, Strawberry, Crispy Crunch, Choco Balls, Chocolate Flakes and Crunchy Granola.
  • The Greek-style varieties include Honeyed Apricot, Strawberry, Blackberry & Raspberry, and Caramelized Almonds.
  • Müller FrütUp varieties include Blueberry Bliss, Very Cherry, Luscious Lemon, Peach Passion Fruit, Radiant Raspberry and Splendid Strawberry. The fruit comes in a mousse that sits on top of the yogurt for the consumer to stir in.
  • Read more about this joint-venture effort on my July 13, 2012 BLOG entilted "Half of All Marriages End in Divorce."

  

  • ORGANIC PROBIOTIC GREEK YOGURT (posted July 11, 2012)
  • Springfield Creamery is once again pioneering new territory with a line of cultured dairy products: organic and probiotic-rich Greek yogurts.
  • True to the tradition of Greek yogurt, Springfield Creamery is using no thickeners or pectins, but instead straining off the whey to make a thick, rich, protein-high product.
  • Nancy's Organic Probiotic Greek Yogurt offers up to 22 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving.
  • The Nancy’s Organic Probiotic Greek yogurt line is available in 6-ounce and 24-ounce cups. Products available in the 6-ounce size are: Nonfat Plain, Nonfat Honey, Nonfat Blackberry, Nonfat Blueberry, Nonfat Raspberry and Nonfat Strawberry. Products available in the 24-ounce size are: Nonfat Plain, Nonfat Honey, Whole Milk Plain and Whole Milk Honey.
  • Known for their real, authentic fruits, Springfield Creamery carefully cooks their fruits in small batches in their Eugene, Oregon creamery. The company uses only real organic fruits purchased from the west coast and northwest regions and sweetens the fruits with just a bit of organic agave.
  • Family-owned and operated, Springfield Creamery is believed to be the first U.S. creamery to add beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum to its yogurt more than 40 years ago.
  • For more information, visit www.nancysyogurt.com.

  

  • FIRST STEVIA-SWEETENED PROBIOTIC DAIRY SHOT (Posted July 9, 2012)
  • Yakult U.S.A. Inc., is introducing Americans to a lower-calorie version of its probiotic shot-style namesake drink.
  • Yakult Light has almost two-thirds less sugar than regular Yakult as a result of being sweetened with only a small amount of sugar and an all-natural, stevia-based sweetener.
  • The drink has one-third fewer calories than regular Yakult: 30 calories vs. 50 calories per 2.7-ounce bottle, respectively.
  • The drink also uses only natural flavors and contains no preservatives, gluten or high-fructose corn syrup.  
  • Yakult Light contains the Japanese company’s proprietary active probiotic bacteria called Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, which has been extensively studied in human clinical trials. The culture is named in honor of Dr. Minoru Shirota, who first cultured the strain in 1930. The strain is able to withstand strong gastric acids and reach the intestines alive. Once there, it has been shown to exert numerous health benefits, including suppression of harmful intestinal bacteria, improved digestive function and maintenance of overall health.
  • Yakult U.S.A.  also recently launched new packaging for its regular Yakult probiotic drink, which is red and white. Yakult Light will be contrasted in blue and white packaging, with the red Yakult logo.  
  • Yakult Light will start appearing in retailers’ refrigerators in mid-July, in the areas where regular Yakult is found.  This includes most chain grocery stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Utah, and Asian and Hispanic independent markets in these and several other states.
  • Yakult U.S.A. Inc., a subsidiary of Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. is located in Torrance, CA, and supports Yakult’s business in the United States and Canada.  Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. was established in 1955 and is regarded as the world’s pioneer of probiotics.  
  • Yakult products are sold in 32 countries.  Global consumption of Yakult's dairy products is approximately 28 million bottles every day.  
  • For more information, visit www.yakultusa.com.

  

  • 100-CALORIE CUP GREEK YOGURTS (posted June 29, 2012)
  • Yoplait Greek 100 will be available in stores across the U.S. by August.
  • The company says the product delivers all of the benefits of Greek yogurt--thick and creamy texture and two times the protein of regular yogurt--in 100 calories.
  • The product’s package will carry an endorsement from Weight Watchers with a PointsPlus value of two per serving. Yoplait Greek 100 adds to General Mills’ expanding line of Greek yogurt products, including Yoplait Greek Parfaits with Nature Valley Granola and Yoplait Greek yogurt multi-packs in Blueberry, Cherry Pomegranate and Coconut flavors, introduced earlier this calendar year.
  • New Yoplait Greek 100 comes in six flavors: Black Cherry, Kiwi Lime, Mixed Berry, Peach, Strawberry and Vanilla.

  
  • LIGHT & FIT GREEK YOGURT (posted June 29, 2012)
  • Dannon Light & Fit Greek comes in four-packs of 5.3-ounce cups, a deviation from the 4-ounce cup standard in most multi-packs.
  • This line of nonfat yogurt is able to keep calories low (at 80 per serving) through the use of a sweetener blend comprised of fructose, sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
  • Product labels tout the fact that a serving contains 45% fewer calories and two-times the protein of regular low-fat yogurt. (Each 5.3-ounce cup contains 12 grams of protein.)
  • Varieties are: Blueberry, Cherry, Strawberry and Vanilla.

  

  • FROZEN YOGURT FOR THE REFRIGERATOR (posted June 26, 2012)
  • Schwan’s Home Service introduces a new concept to the frozen, make that, refrigerated yogurt category.
  • That’s right. Thaw and Serve Creamy Yogurt is refrigerated yogurt that is distributed frozen but intended for consumption after thawing.
  • The new, slow-blended, low-fat yogurts come in two flavors: strawberry and vanilla.
  • Made from real, low-fat milk, the product is flash frozen to lock in the creamy goodness consumers crave and the essential nutrients they expect from yogurt, according to the company.
  • Thaw and Serve Creamy Yogurt is delivered frozen through home delivery and designed to be stored in the freezer or refrigerator for convenience. When frozen, just place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw or for two hours at room temperature before enjoying.
  • Sold in four-packs of 6-ounce cups, the yogurt is 99% fat free, with each serving being an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, and an excellent source of protein (6 grams per serving). The formula is also void of artificial flavors or colors.
  • The product has a 49-day shelf life in the refrigerator.
  • For more information, visit www.schwans.com.

  

  • IMPORTED GREEK YOGURT (posted June 5, 2012)
  • Greek yogurt has become a staple on cooler shelves across America, but now for the first time, consumers can have authentic Greek yogurt, that is actually from Greece.
  • Olympus Dairy International, the largest organic dairy manufacturer in Greece, is importing its authentic strained Greek yogurt to the United States.
  • The line includes a plain variety in three different fat levels: 0%, 2% and 10%.
  • The 1% fat variety comes in six flavors: Blueberry, Cherry, Lemon, Peach, Strawberry and Vanilla.
  • There’s also a 0% fat variety in a dual compartment cup, with Greek honey as the side.
  • Olympus Dairy products are available in 25 international markets and will be nationwide in the States by the end of the year.
  • For more information, visit www.olympusdairyusa.com.

  

  • SUPERFRUITS MEET GREEK YOGURT IN THE HOME BLENDER (posted May 30, 2012)
  • Inventure Foods Inc., expands the Jamba brand of “at home” smoothies with a pair of superfruit varieties featuring nonfat Greek yogurt.
  • Pomegranate Pick-Me-Up and Acai Super-Antioxidant represent the third expansion of the popular grocery and club store retail line of frozen smoothie kits in the past six months. Inventure first introduced the original line up of Strawberries Wild, Razzmatazz and Mango-a-Go-Go in May of 2010. It added a fourth flavor--Caribbean Passion-- in September 2011, and Orange Dream Machine hit retail freezers in April 2012.
  • Pomegranate Pick-Me-Up contains pomegranate, blueberries, strawberries and nonfat Greek yogurt.
  • Acai Super-Antioxidant features acai, blueberries, raspberries and nonfat Greek yogurt.
  • Both varieties come frozen in 8-ounce bags and, when added to juice in a blender, yield two 8-ounce smoothies.
  • Each smoothie serving provides a full serving of fruit, 100% Daily Value of vitamin C and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

  

  • YOGURT WITH CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES (posted May 15, 2012)
  • YoCrunch, the original yogurt packaged with fun toppings, introduces a dual-compartment low-fat vanilla yogurt with Chips Ahoy! cookie pieces.
  • The entire 6-ounce cup contains 190 calories, with 5 grams of protein, and provides 20% of the Daily Value for both calcium and vitamin D (based on a 2,000 calorie daily diet).
  • Suggested retail price for YoCrunch Yogurt with Chips Ahoy! cookie pieces is 79 to 89 cents. This summer, the company will introduce a multipack of four, 4-ounce cups with a suggested retail price of $2.99.
  • Chips Ahoy!, a brand of Kraft Foods Inc., is the second Kraft-owned cookie brand to be used as a mix-in with YoCrunch yogurt. Oreo was the first. Interestingly, YoCrunch yogurts were previously cobranded with the Breyers brand, which at one point in time was owned by Kraft when the company was a player in the refrigerated yogurt business. The Breyers brand is no longer found on refrigerated yogurt.
  • For more information, visit www.yocrunch.com.

  

  • POSITIONING DAIRY FOR DAY PARTS (posted May 11, 2012)
  • Read about it on my May 11, 2012 BLOG.

  

  • SHOT-STYLE PROBIOTIC IN INNOVATIVE PACKAGE (posted April 4, 2012)
  • Finland’s Valio is repackaging its shot-style Gefilus LGG Power Drink into the brand new Tetra Pak Lokka 100-ml carton.
  • The drink comes in a 100% juice (apple, banana, mango, orange and passion fruit blend) variety and a drinkable strawberry- and blueberry-flavored yogurt version.
  • The tagline for the probiotic beverage reads: Helps to keep you healthy. This is thanks to the inclusion of the lactic acid bacterium Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53 103).
  • The Lokka package features an innovative option: a convenient tear-off opening to meet the demand for on-the-go consumption. This is just one of many new package designs that Tetra Pak showcased at Anuga FoodTec.

  

  • DAIRY PRODUCTS PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN MATERNAL NUTRITION (posted May 10, 2012)
  • Read about Lifeway Foods' partnership with Every Mother Counts on my April 20, 2012 BLOG.

  

  • LACTOSE-FREE YOGURT (posted April 19, 2012)
  • Schreiber Foods Inc., introduces Lactaid brand Lactose Free Nonfat Yogurt in four flavors: blueberry, peach, strawberry and vanilla.
  • The yogurts are made with nonfat milk and supplemented with whey protein concentrate, with each 6-ounce cup containing 140 calories and 7-grams of quality protein.
  • Though yogurt cultures do a good job of breaking down lactose, the addition of the enzyme lactase ensures that the product is completely free of milk’s inherent sugar.
  • The company licenses the Lactaid brand from McNeil Nutritionals LLC, manufacturers of the namesake lactase enzyme.

  

  • GREEK YOGURT FOR KIDS (posted March 24, 2011)
  • Stonyfield Farm is rolling out Greek yogurt designed for kids’ palates and appetites.
  • This organic product is higher in protein than the company’s traditional kids’ yogurts and comes in two kid-friendly flavors: Raspberry and Strawberry.
  • Such high-quality protein provides energy, stamina and a feeling of fullness. It can help children stay focused in school.
  • The product is rolling out nationwide in four-packs of 4-ounce cups.

 

PRIVATE-LABEL PURPLE COW CREAMERY ENTERS REFRIGERATED YOGURT CATEGORY

Supercenter retail giant Meijer debuts private-label refrigerated yogurt under the company’s infamous Purple Cow insignia.

 

PRIVATE-LABEL PURPLE COW CREAMERY ENTERS REFRIGERATED YOGURT CATEGORY (posted September 2, 2014)

Supercenter retail giant Meijer debuts private-label refrigerated yogurt under the company’s infamous Purple Cow insignia.

First came Purple Cow ice cream, the happy legacy of Fred Meijer. For two generations, each of his stores boasted a Purple Cow ice cream shop.

In the fall of 2013, Purple Cow Creamery packaged retail pints and half gallons entered the market. Read about them HERE.

http://www.berryondairy.com/frozen-desserts.html#12213

Now the creamery is producing refrigerated yogurt.

There are 32-ounce multi-serve tubs of Plain (whole milk, low fat and nonfat), Strawberry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla (light and low fat).

There are also 6-ounce single-serve cups that come in four packs.

The single-serve cups come in an array of varieties, including Blended, Fruit on Bottom and Light.

Flavors include Black Cherry, Blackberry, Blueberry, Boston Cream Pie, Mixed Berry, Orange Cream, Peach, Raspberry, Strawberry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla.

For more information, visit www.thepurplecow.com.