We’re often asked the question, ‘is skyr Greek yoghurt?’ And the answer is that although the two have plenty of similarities – they’re both thick, creamy dairy products after all – they have some differences too. 

So, how do you choose between these two different types of yoghurt.

We’re giving you all the information you need on the difference between skyr and Greek yoghurt, including what they are, nutritional benefits like protein in skyr vs Greek yoghurt, and how to enjoy both as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

Skyr is a thick, creamy Icelandic yoghurt that can be enjoyed on its own, with toppings like fruit and granola, or blended into smoothies, sauces, dips, and baking.

Danone Skyr is made by fermenting skimmed milk and unique live cultures, then straining the mixture to give it its signature velvety texture and mild taste that’s 0% fat and naturally high in protein.

Authentic Greek yoghurt originated in the Middle East and Mediterranean, and is made by straining regular yoghurt to remove excess liquid, leaving a thicker, creamier texture. You might also see yoghurts described as ‘Greek-style’ in the chilled aisle, which are inspired by the authentic ‘strained’ way of making Greek yoghurt, giving a thinner texture as less water has been lost during manufacturing. Greek yoghurt is popular due to its versatility, tangy taste (sometimes compared to sour cream), and high protein content. The fat content of Greek yoghurt varies depending on the milk and production method used.

While both are thicker and creamier than regular yoghurts, there are some subtle differences between skyr and Greek yoghurt when it comes to taste and texture.

Danone Skyr is denser in texture than many Greek yoghurts and has a milder taste, making it a versatile addition to a wide range of recipes. Greek yogurt, on the other hand, tends to have a tangy, slightly sour taste, and whilst it has a thicker texture than regular yogurt, it’s not quite as dense as skyr. 

While Greek yoghurt has been around for thousands of years, it’s become increasingly popular in recent years. Thought to have originated in Ancient Greece, Central Asia, and Mesopotamia, it’s now a fridge staple for many households the world over¹.

Skyr has also been enjoyed for thousands of years, and can be traced back to the Vikings (possibly even before). It’s been a core part of Icelandic cuisine ever since.  

While Danone Skyr contains 0% fat, making it a great part of a healthy, balanced diet, the fat content of Greek yoghurt can vary. You’ll often find full-fat, low-fat, and fat-free options on the shelves, so always check the label to find the right fit for you.

A 450g pot of Danone Skyr Plain Yoghurt contains 111mg of calcium per 100g, which is around 20% of an adult’s reference intake². Greek-style yoghurt contains a similar amount of calcium, although again, this can vary by brand and recipe.

Live cultures are the live bacteria naturally found in fermented foods like skyr and Greek yoghurt.

Danone SKYR contains a unique blend of live cultures which are fermented with milk to give a distinctive flavour and thick texture.

The live cultures in Greek yogurt and Skyr are different meaning they have a slightly different taste and texture.

Because of the similarities between these two different types of yoghurt, you can use skyr instead of Greek yoghurt in many different recipes. Because both are thick and creamy, they can make perfect bases for dips like tzatziki or  velvety smoothies. Skyr can be denser than Greek yoghurt, so you may need to experiment with the amount you use to get the perfect consistency.

You might also find skyr better than Greek yoghurt if you prefer a subtler taste. Greek yoghurt can be quite tangy, whereas Danone Skyr is delightfully mild, making it a good complement to flavours in cooking and baking without overpowering them.

Enjoy a thick, creamy bowl of skyr or Greek yoghurt topped with fruit, nuts and a drizzle of honey as part of a high-protein breakfast. You could also add a dollop of either to some delicious wholewheat pancakes with berries. 

Grab a pot of Danone Skyr Yoghurt as a snack at home or on the go. Or, if you’re feeling creative, use either skyr or Greek yoghurt as a creamy base in a fruity smoothie or zesty dip for some crunchy veggies.

Skyr’s velvety texture makes it the perfect substitute for cream cheese in a high-protein, lower-fat cheesecake. You can also use skyr and Greek yoghurt if you’re baking cookies and cakes.