Coconut Milk Yogurt


My expedition to find coconut milk yogurt began last week with an article in the LA Times.  While explaining the recent explosion of yogurt options, the writer mentioned coconut milk yogurt.  I was intrigued, and thus the search began.
Fortunately Turtle Mountain heard my desperate plea on Twitter, and directed me to their So Delicious dairy-free products.  In their generosity, they also sent me coupons to purchase some free products! Thank you!

I finally found the Coconut Milk Yogurt at Whole Foods.  These dairy-free, soy-free yogurts were quite expensive.  A glance at the ingredients list shows that they are fortified with calcium, B12, and some fiber.  Though available in 9 flavors (pina colada!), I was feeling like a purist and chose Plain.  I was surprised by the initial sweetness, but reassured with the sour aftertaste.  The mouthfeel was nearly the same as regular yogurt, and overall the taste was good.  I added sliced banana and unsweetened coconut flakes to the yogurt.
The Coconut and The Cow
  • Saturated Fat.  For those trying to limit their saturated fat and lower LDL cholesterol (the Lousy cholesterol), coconut milk's 6 grams in 6 ounces might not be the best choice.  I chose to compare So Delicious with a whole milk yogurt so that the saturated fat content would be comparable (a plain 6 oz skim milk yogurt contains less than 1g of saturated fat).   
  • Protein.  I confess that I was a little disappointed with the 1 gram of protein.  Yogurt is often touted as a low-fat, high-protein food that can serve as a satisfying snack or meal component.  Perhaps adding a handful of crushed nuts to the coconut milk yogurt can boost the protein for a filling snack!  
  • Dairy-free.  Soy-free.  Coconut milk yogurt is a great option for those who cannot tolerate lactose and may not like the taste or texture of soymilk yogurt.
  • My opinion.  Coconut milk yogurt may not provide the best nutritional quality for a limited budget.  However this was a great splurge, and I love trying new products!  I hope you will take the time to try this too. 
Happy Monday,
Rachel

6 comments:

MelindaRD said...

The only real issue with the coconut is the saturated fat because it is, well, a saturated fat, which I am sure you know. Thus, high in sat fat. As we also know, everything in moderation. Probably not the best product for everyday use.

Anonymous said...

I love So Delicious Coconut Milk Yogurt. While lower in protein than dairy-based yogurt, its fat content is comparable to that of dairy yogurt, and the medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut actually have some health benefits not found in dairy's saturated fat. My husband and daughter are both allergic to dairy, so these coconut milk yogurts are a godsend to our family. They are not only very tasty on their own, but are wonderful for making smoothies and in baked goods, too.

Kristen (swanky dietitian) said...

That is a bummer about the low protein. That sounds really yummy option. Like you had mentioned, maybe adding adding protein.
I was reading about coconut and I thought since the saturated fat from coconut was mostly from MCTs, it didn't act as animal fats do.

Emily said...

Thanks for the review, Rachel! I've seen So Delicious coconut yogurt, but I've never tried it before. I wish it had more protein, though! I agree...it would be a nice treat, regardless.

Elizabeth Jarrard said...

i was really disapointed with the protein content in coconut yogurt, but it's a tastier yogurt sub than soy yogurt for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. when will they come out with almond milk yogurt?? i'm sure that would be delicious and lower calorie! New business opportunity??
thanks for the great nutritional breakdown though!

Anonymous said...

Add 1 cup of Quinoa Flakes, and you have a delicious, nutritious high protein, high fiber breakfast! Coconut milk, and coconut oil have tremendous health benefits:-)

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Disclaimer. I am not a Registered Dietitian yet. I provide nutrition information intended for the general public, not for the treatment of a specific medical condition. I try to use scientific research and reliable sources when forming my opinions and messages.
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