With the acceleration of the pace of life, yogurt has become a frequent guest on our daily table, and its unique taste and rich nutritional value are deeply loved by the public. However, in front of the dazzling yogurt shelves, have you ever wondered how to choose a really good yogurt? Today, let me take you to explore the mysteries of yogurt and help you find the delicious yoghurt that is both guaranteed and suitable for your family.
First, let's learn about the family members of yogurt. According to national standards, yogurt is mainly divided into four categories: yogurt, fermented milk, flavored yogurt and flavored fermented milk. The main difference between yogurt and fermented milk is the requirements of the culture, the former needs to contain two specific strains, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, while the latter is relatively relaxed, as for flavored yogurt and flavored fermented milk, it is on the basis of the original yogurt to add other ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, grains, etc., but it is necessary to ensure that the content of milk powder exceeds 80%, and the protein content ≥ 2.3%.
So, how to recognize real yogurt? The first key is to check the ingredient list. A really good yogurt should have a concise ingredient list, focusing on "raw milk + Streptococcus thermophilus + Lactobacillus bulgaricus", which is the core element of yogurt fermentation, without too many additives, water or other sugars. At the same time, the state stipulates that the protein content of yogurt should be ≥ 2.9%, which is also one of the important indicators to judge the quality of yogurt.
Next, let's talk about flavored fermented milk. Although they come in a variety of flavors, such as yellow peach, blueberry, strawberry, and even added elements such as grains to increase the appetite, there may be a bunch of additives such as thickeners (e.g. agar, pectin, carrageenan), emulsifiers, flavors, colours, sweeteners, and preservatives. These unnatural ingredients not only reduce the nutritional value of the yogurt itself, but may also put an additional metabolic burden on the body. So, if you're looking for health, opt for plain yogurt and add your own fresh fruit or honey to enhance the taste, which is both delicious and healthy.
In addition, there is a product called "fermented milk drink" on the market, which has the word "yogurt" in its name, but it is actually a type of beverage. Water and sugar are often at the top of the ingredient list, followed by milk powder and other additives, which have a much lower protein content than yogurt standards and have a lower nutritional value. Long-term consumption, especially for children, not only does not get enough nutrients, but may lead to obesity and even tooth decay. Therefore, we must keep our eyes open when buying and avoid taking home such "fake yogurt".
Finally, share a few tips for eating yogurt: first, yogurt should not be drunk on an empty stomach, it is best to enjoy it between half an hour and two hours after a meal, in order to facilitate nutrient absorption; second, yogurt should not be heated, high temperature will cause a large loss of lactic acid bacteria and nutrients, if you feel cold, you can leave it at room temperature for a while; third, friends who are taking antibiotics should drink yogurt half an hour after taking the medicine.
To sum up, when you walk into the supermarket again to buy yogurt, please don't just stare at the brand and price, but also learn to check the ingredient list on the package, look for those really good yogurts labeled "raw cow (sheep) milk + a variety of probiotics + appropriate amount of sugar", and stay away from those "fake yogurt" full of additives. In this way, not only the wallet is protected, but the health of the family can also be better protected. Hopefully, this little knowledge about yogurt shopping will help you make an informed choice in front of the dazzling array of refrigerators and make your life healthier and more colorful!