Exploring the Nutritional Benefits of Noosa Yogurt: Is it Really Healthy?

October 25, 2024

55 12 minutes read

What Is Noosa Yogurt?

Noosa Yoghurt is an Australian-style yogurt brand that was founded in 2009 by Koel Thomae and Rob Graves. The company is based in Bellvue, Colorado, where they make their yogurt using milk from cows raised on local farms.

What sets Noosa apart from other yogurt brands is its unique recipe and production process. Unlike traditional yogurt, which is often made with skim milk or low-fat milk, Noosa uses whole milk and adds a touch of honey to create a rich, creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. They also use a slow culturing process that takes twice as long as most yogurts, which they claim results in a smoother, more velvety consistency.

Noosa offers a wide range of flavors, from classic options like vanilla bean and blueberry to more unique combinations like strawberry rhubarb and blackberry serrano. They also have a line of “Noosa Mates” that pair their yogurt with mix-ins like granola and chocolate.

How Is Noosa Yogurt Made?

To understand the nutritional benefits and potential health risks of Noosa yogurt, it’s important to first look at how it’s made. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the Noosa yogurt production process:

Milk sourcing: Noosa sources their milk from local farms in Colorado, most of which are within 40 miles of their production facility. They use whole milk from cows that are not treated with artificial growth hormones.
Pasteurization: The milk is then pasteurized to kill any harmful bacteria and ensure food safety.
Culturing: Next, live and active cultures are added to the milk to begin the fermentation process. Noosa uses three specific strains of probiotics: S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. acidophilus.
Honey and fruit: After the culturing process is complete, honey and real fruit purees are added to create the various flavors of Noosa yogurt.
Packaging: The finished yogurt is then packaged into individual serving sizes and shipped to grocery stores across the country.

One thing that sets Noosa apart is their use of whole milk instead of skim or low-fat milk. While this does result in a higher calorie and fat content, some research suggests that full-fat dairy may actually have some health benefits, such as reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes^[1].

What Ingredients Are Used In Noosa Yogurt?

Now that we know how Noosa yogurt is made, let’s take a closer look at the specific ingredients used. Here are the ingredients listed for their vanilla bean flavor:

Pasteurized whole milk
Honey
Cane sugar
Vanilla bean
Pectin
Live and active cultures (S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, L. acidophilus)

As you can see, the ingredient list is relatively short and simple compared to some other flavored yogurts on the market. However, there are a few things to note:

Added sugars: In addition to the naturally occurring sugars in the milk and fruit purees, Noosa also adds cane sugar and honey to their yogurt. While these are natural sweeteners, they still contribute to the overall sugar content of the product.
Pectin: Pectin is a natural thickening agent derived from fruit that helps give Noosa its creamy texture. It’s generally considered safe, but some people may be sensitive to it.
Live and active cultures: The three strains of probiotics used in Noosa are common in many yogurts and have been shown to have various health benefits, such as improving digestive health and boosting immunity^[2].

It’s worth noting that the ingredients may vary slightly depending on the flavor of Noosa yogurt. For example, their fruit flavors will also contain real fruit purees, while their “Noosa Mates” line includes additional mix-ins like granola and chocolate chips.

Is Noosa Yogurt Healthy?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what Noosa yogurt is and how it’s made, let’s dive into the main question at hand: is it actually healthy? The answer, as with most foods, is that it depends on your individual dietary needs and goals.

What Are The Nutritional Benefits Of Noosa Yogurt?

First, let’s look at some of the potential nutritional benefits of incorporating Noosa yogurt into your diet:

Protein: Like most yogurts, Noosa is a good source of protein, with around 11-12 grams per 8 oz serving. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues, as well as keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Probiotics: The live and active cultures in Noosa yogurt can help support digestive health and boost immunity. Some studies have also suggested that regular consumption of probiotics may have other benefits like reducing inflammation and improving mental health^[3].
Calcium: Yogurt is well-known as a good source of calcium, and Noosa is no exception. One serving contains about 30% of the daily recommended value of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
Vitamin B12: Noosa yogurt also contains vitamin B12, an essential nutrient that plays a role in red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis.

However, it’s important to note that Noosa is higher in calories, fat, and sugar compared to some other yogurt options. A single 8 oz serving can contain up to 320 calories, 14 grams of fat, and 32 grams of sugar (19 grams of which are added sugars).

For comparison, an 8 oz serving of plain, nonfat Greek yogurt typically has around 130 calories, 0 grams of fat, and 9 grams of naturally occurring sugars. So while Noosa does offer some nutritional benefits, it’s best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How Does Noosa Yogurt Compare To Other Yogurt Brands?

To get a better sense of how Noosa stacks up nutritionally, let’s compare it to a few other popular yogurt brands:

Brand	Calories (8 oz)	Fat (g)	Total Sugars (g)	Added Sugars (g)	Protein (g)	Calcium (%DV)
Noosa (vanilla bean)	280	12	32	19	12	30%
Chobani Whole Milk Greek (vanilla)	220	11	15	13	13	15%
Fage Total 5% (plain)	200	10	9	0	20	20%
Siggi’s 4% (vanilla)	130	6	9	0	12	15%
Yoplait Original (vanilla)	150	2	18	14	5	10%

As you can see, Noosa is on the higher end for calories, fat, and sugar content compared to these other brands. However, it’s worth noting that Noosa uses whole milk while some of the others use low-fat or nonfat milk, which accounts for some of the differences.

In terms of protein, Noosa is comparable to Chobani and Siggi’s, but has less than Fage. And while it does have more calcium than some of the others, keep in mind that it’s also higher in calories and added sugars.

Ultimately, whether Noosa is the right choice for you depends on your individual dietary needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a protein-packed option for muscle building or weight management, you may want to opt for a Greek yogurt like Fage. If you’re watching your calorie or sugar intake, a lower-sugar option like Siggi’s might be a better fit.

But if you enjoy the creamy texture and unique flavors of Noosa and can fit it into your overall healthy eating plan, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy it in moderation. Just be mindful of portion sizes and consider opting for their plain or less sweetened flavors when possible.

What Are The Potential Health Risks Of Noosa Yogurt?

While Noosa yogurt does offer some nutritional benefits, there are also a few potential health risks to be aware of, particularly for certain individuals. Let’s break them down:

1. High Sugar Content

One of the main concerns with Noosa yogurt is its high sugar content, particularly from added sugars like cane sugar and honey. Consuming too much added sugar has been linked to a variety of health issues, including:

Weight gain and obesity
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Higher risk of heart disease
Tooth decay and cavities
Inflammation in the body

The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to no more than 36 grams per day for men and 25 grams per day for women^[4]. With some flavors of Noosa containing up to 25 grams of added sugar per serving, it’s easy to see how it could contribute to exceeding these guidelines if consumed regularly.

If you do choose to enjoy Noosa yogurt, be mindful of your portion sizes and consider it a treat rather than an everyday staple. You can also opt for their less sweetened flavors or plain variety and add your own fresh fruit for natural sweetness.

2. Added Preservatives and Additives

Another potential concern with some flavors of Noosa yogurt is the presence of added preservatives and additives. For example, their lemon flavor contains natural flavors and vegetable juice for color.

While these ingredients are generally recognized as safe by the FDA, some people may be sensitive to them or prefer to avoid them for personal reasons. If you have allergies or intolerances, be sure to check the ingredient list carefully and choose flavors that don’t contain any triggering additives.

It’s also worth noting that while Noosa does use milk from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones, they do not specify whether their cows are grass-fed or pasture-raised. Some research suggests that milk from grass-fed cows may be higher in beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)^[5].

3. Dairy Allergies and Sensitivities

Finally, it’s important to remember that Noosa yogurt is still a dairy product, which means it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies or sensitivities. Lactose intolerance, for example, affects an estimated 36% of Americans^[6].

While the live and active cultures in yogurt can help break down some of the lactose, making it easier to digest for some people, those with severe lactose intolerance may still experience symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming Noosa.

Additionally, some people may have an allergy to the proteins in cow’s milk, which can cause symptoms like hives, wheezing, and digestive issues. If you have a known dairy allergy or sensitivity, it’s best to avoid Noosa yogurt and opt for a plant-based alternative instead.

How Can Noosa Yogurt Be Incorporated Into A Healthy Diet?

If you do choose to include Noosa yogurt in your diet, there are a few ways to enjoy it while still maintaining a balanced and nutritious eating plan. Here are some ideas:

1. As A Breakfast Option

Yogurt can be a great choice for breakfast, as it provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fat to help keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning. To make a well-rounded breakfast with Noosa, try pairing it with:

Fresh berries or sliced fruit for added fiber and nutrients
A sprinkle of nuts or seeds for healthy fats and crunch
A drizzle of nut butter for extra protein and flavor
A small serving of granola or whole grain cereal for complex carbs

Just be mindful of the overall calorie and sugar content of your toppings, and aim to keep your portion size of Noosa to around 4-6 ounces.

2. As A Snack

Noosa can also make a satisfying and tasty snack option, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods. Some snack ideas include:

Noosa with sliced veggies like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added fiber and crunch
A small bowl of Noosa with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips as a healthier sweet treat
Noosa blended with frozen fruit and a splash of milk for a creamy smoothie

Again, pay attention to portion sizes and consider choosing plain or less sweetened Noosa flavors for snacking to keep added sugar in check.

3. As A Dessert Alternative

If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard on added sugars and empty calories, Noosa can be a great alternative to traditional desserts. Try:

Freezing Noosa in popsicle molds with fresh fruit for a healthier frozen treat
Layering Noosa with granola, fruit, and a drizzle of honey for a lightened-up parfait
Using Noosa as a base for healthier baked goods like muffins or pancakes

By getting creative with how you use Noosa in your cooking and snacking, you can enjoy its delicious flavor and creamy texture while still keeping your overall diet balanced and nutritious.

What Are Some Delicious Ways To Enjoy Noosa Yogurt?

Looking for some tasty and creative ways to incorporate Noosa yogurt into your meals and snacks? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. With Fresh Fruit and Granola

One of the simplest and most delicious ways to enjoy Noosa is to top it with fresh fruit and a sprinkle of granola for added crunch. Some great fruit options include:

Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
Sliced bananas or peaches
Diced apples or pears
Tropical fruits like mango or pineapple

2. As A Topping for Pancakes or Waffles

Noosa can also make a delicious and protein-packed topping for your favorite breakfast treats like pancakes or waffles. Simply dollop a spoonful of Noosa on top of your stack and add some fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.

For a fun twist, you can also try using Noosa as a base for healthier pancake or waffle batter. Simply mix together a cup of Noosa, an egg, and a half cup of whole wheat flour for a quick and easy pancake batter. Cook on a griddle or in a skillet as you would regular pancakes, and top with more Noosa and your favorite fruit.

3. In Smoothie Bowls

Smoothie bowls are a fun and creative way to enjoy Noosa while packing in plenty of other nutritious ingredients. To make a Noosa smoothie bowl, simply:

Blend together 1/2 cup of Noosa, 1/2 cup of frozen fruit (like berries or mango), and a splash of milk until smooth.
Pour the smoothie mixture into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings like:
- Sliced fresh fruit
- A sprinkle of granola or nuts
- A drizzle of honey or nut butter
- Shredded coconut or cacao nibs

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations and toppings.

By incorporating Noosa yogurt into your meals and snacks in these delicious and nutritious ways, you can enjoy its creamy texture and unique flavors while still maintaining a balanced and healthy diet. Just remember to keep an eye on portion sizes and choose toppings and mix-ins that align with your individual dietary needs and goals.

Takeaways

Noosa Yoghurt is an Australian-style yogurt known for its creamy texture and unique flavors, made with whole milk, honey, and real fruit purees.
While Noosa does offer some nutritional benefits like protein, probiotics, calcium, and vitamin B12, it is also higher in calories, fat, and added sugars compared to some other yogurt brands.
Potential health risks of consuming Noosa yogurt regularly include weight gain, increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, tooth decay, and inflammation due to its high added sugar content.
Some flavors of Noosa also contain added preservatives and additives, which some people may be sensitive to or prefer to avoid.
Noosa may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies or sensitivities, as it is made with cow’s milk.
To enjoy Noosa as part of a balanced diet, be mindful of portion sizes, choose plain or less sweetened flavors when possible, and pair it with other nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds.
Noosa can be incorporated into a healthy diet in a variety of delicious ways, such as topped with fresh fruit and granola, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or blended into smoothie bowls.

FAQs

Is Noosa yogurt good for weight loss?

While Noosa does contain protein which can help promote feelings of fullness, its higher calorie and added sugar content may not make it the best choice for weight loss. Opting for a lower-sugar, higher-protein yogurt like plain Greek yogurt may be a better option for those looking to manage their weight.

Does Noosa yogurt have probiotics?

Yes, Noosa yogurt contains live and active cultures, including S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, and L. acidophilus, which are known as probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can help support digestive health and boost immunity.

Is Noosa yogurt gluten-free?

According to the Noosa website, all of their yogurt flavors are gluten-free. However, their “Noosa Mates” line which includes mix-ins like granola may contain gluten, so be sure to check the label if you have a gluten sensitivity or allergy.

Is Noosa yogurt organic?

While Noosa does use milk from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones, their products are not certified organic. They do source their milk from local farms in Colorado, but the cows are not necessarily grass-fed or pasture-raised.

How long does Noosa yogurt last?

Noosa yogurt should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed by the “best by” date printed on the container. Once opened, it should be eaten within 5-7 days for best quality and food safety.

References

Drouin-Chartier, J. P., Brassard, D., Tessier-Grenier, M., Côté, J. A., Labonté, M. È., Desroches, S., … & Lamarche, B. (2016). Systematic review of the association between dairy product consumption and risk of cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes. Advances in Nutrition, 7(6), 1026-1040.
Kechagia, M., Basoulis, D., Konstantopoulou, S., Dimitriadi, D., Gyftopoulou, K., Skarmoutsou, N., & Fakiri, E. M. (2013). Health benefits of probiotics: a review. ISRN nutrition, 2013.
Shi, L. H., Balakrishnan, K., Thiagarajah, K., Mohd Ismail, N. I., & Yin, O. S. (2016). Beneficial properties of probiotics. Tropical life sciences research, 27(2), 73.
American Heart Association. (2018). Added sugars. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/added-sugars
Benbrook, C. M., Davis, D. R., Heins, B. J., Latif, M. A., Leifert, C., Peterman, L., … & Baranski, M. (2018). Enhancing the fatty acid profile of milk through forage-based rations, with nutrition modeling of diet outcomes. Food Science & Nutrition, 6(3), 681-700.
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2019). Lactose intolerance. Retrieved from https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/lactose-intolerance#statistics