Is Traditional raspberry skyr Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a dairy product like Traditional raspberry skyr is Kosher, the focus shifts to the source of the enzymes used to curdle the milk and the additives in the fruit mixture. Fortunately, modern mass-market skyr often utilizes microbial enzymes rather than animal rennet, making it acceptable for a wider audience.

The base consists of pasteurized low-fat milk and live and active cultures. The specific cultures listed—streptococcus thermophilus islandicus, lactobacillus bulgaricus, and bifidobacterium—are bacteria used in fermentation. These are microscopic organisms, not animal products, and are universally accepted in Kosher dietary laws.

Looking at the fruit component, we see raspberries, cane sugar, and pectin. Pectin is a plant-based thickener derived from fruit peels, which is inherently Kosher. The inclusion of locust bean gum (carob bean gum) is also safe; it is a vegetable gum used for texture. Finally, the natural flavor and fruit and vegetable juice concentrate (used for color) are plant-derived. Since the verdict is 'YES' with no flags, we can assume the natural flavors contain no alcohol or non-Kosher derivatives.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Traditional raspberry skyr is a powerhouse. It is high in protein due to the concentrated milk solids and the fermentation process, which helps thicken the product without adding fat. The low-fat milk base keeps the calorie count reasonable while providing a significant protein punch per serving.

The primary source of added sugar is cane sugar. While this adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the raspberries and the acidity of the cultures, it contributes to the total carbohydrate count. For those monitoring sugar intake, this is the ingredient to watch, though the amount is generally moderate compared to flavored yogurts. The fat content remains low, fitting well into standard heart-healthy or weight-management diets.