What Is Skyr—and Is It Healthy?

There are a lot of options in the dairy aisle these days. Whether it's the copious brands of yogurt or the growing number of plant-based alternatives, it can seem like there are endless choices. One type of dairy product that is growing in popularity is called skyr. Notable skyr brands include Icelandic Provisions and Siggi's. But what actually is this creamy and delicious product? And is skyr actually healthy? We answer those questions and more about skyr.

What Is Skyr?

While many brands of skyr are sold in the dairy aisle in small containers, yogurt and skyr are technically not the same. Skyr is thicker and creamier in texture than yogurt. This is because of the heirloom Icelandic cultures and dairy milk (sometimes whole milk) used to create the skyr. It requires almost 4 cups of milk to produce 1 cup of skyr, which accounts for its rich mouthfeel and less tangy taste. This also renders skyr higher in protein content compared to traditional yogurt.

Skyr vs. Greek Yogurt

Despite their similar creamy and thick textures, Greek yogurt and skyr are crafted with nuanced distinctions. Skyr, traditionally made from skim milk, boasts a lower fat content compared to Greek yogurt, which often utilizes whole milk. While both undergo straining, skyr typically endures a more extensive straining process, with the addition of rennet, an enzyme, yielding a thicker consistency. Additionally, variations in bacterial cultures used during fermentation contribute to subtle differences in taste and texture between the two yogurts.

Skyr Nutrition

The nutrition for one 5.3-ounce container of plain skyr is as follows:

• 120 calories
• 2.5g fat
• 1.5g saturated fat
• 8g carbohydrates
• 3g sugar
• 0g added sugar
• 17g protein
• 190mg calcium (15% DV)
• 240mg potassium (6% DV)

Compared to regular low-fat yogurt, skyr is slightly higher in calories and has almost twice the protein. It has a similar fat content and is slightly lower in carbs. The protein content in skyr makes it more filling, and the creamy texture makes it taste decadent without added calories or fats. If you are looking for something rich-tasting to add to a healthy breakfast, skyr could be worth trying.