Is Yoplait Original Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why Yoplait Original fails the vegan test, we have to look closely at the label. The primary ingredient is cultured pasteurized grade a reduced fat milk. This is the foundation of the product, making it a dairy-based food. Vegans do not consume milk or any products derived from animals, so this single ingredient immediately disqualifies it.

However, the issues do not stop there. The ingredient list also includes kosher gelatin. Gelatin is a animal-derived protein obtained by boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones of animals, usually pigs or cows. It is used as a thickening agent. Even though it is labeled "kosher," it is still an animal product.

Finally, we must look at the vitamins. Yoplait Original is fortified with vitamin d3. While this is great for bone health, the source of vitamin D3 is typically lanolin, a waxy substance secreted by sheep. Because lanolin comes from sheep, it is not considered vegan. Some vegans might overlook this, but combined with the milk and gelatin, the verdict is clear.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Yoplait Original is designed to be a convenient snack. A standard 6-ounce cup generally contains around 150 to 170 calories, depending on the specific fruit flavor. It provides a decent amount of protein (usually about 5 grams) and calcium.

However, the sugar content is where health-conscious consumers should pause. A single cup often contains 19 to 22 grams of sugar. While some of this is naturally occurring lactose from the milk, a significant portion comes from the added sugar listed in the ingredients. For those monitoring their sugar intake for weight loss or blood sugar management, this might be considered a high-sugar treat rather than a health food.