KANSAS CITY — In the refrigerated section of the grocery store, yogurt is evolving as dairy manufacturers tap into consumer interest in health, eating occasions and functional ingredients.
Manufacturers have been focusing on high-protein and low-sugar yogurt formulations. Yoplait, a brand from General Mills, Inc., introduced a high-protein yogurt line, which is formulated using ultra-filter milk and the company’s traditional yogurt-style fermentation process. The line offers 15 grams of protein and 3 grams of sugar per 5.6-oz serving.
“Consumers are having to make tradeoffs, opting for products they don’t enjoy the taste of — like Greek yogurt — just to get in the extra protein, so we decided to do something about the lack of options in the category,” said Kaylee Pohlmeyer, senior brand manager at General Mills.
New York-based Chobani launched a line of dessert-inspired yogurt, in response to consumer demand for more indulgent offerings. The single-serve cups feature 10 grams of protein and 9 essential amino acids and are available in mocha tiramisu, apple pie a la mode, cherry cheesecake, orange cream pop, banana foster and caramel sundae flavors.
“By pairing our natural, nutrient-dense Greek yogurt with dessert-inspired flavors, we’re stretching yogurt beyond the breakfast occasion,” said Niel Sandfort, chief innovation officer at Chobani.
Danone North America also is responding to current trends and looking to capitalize on consumer interest in snacking with a line of yogurt and dairy snacks under the brand name Remix. The Remix portfolio, which is spread across three Danone brands, features a yogurt or dairy base with mix-in toppings.
