Greek Yogurt vs Skyr

Greek yogurt and skyr are both thick, high-protein dairy products that have become staples for healthy eating. Skyr is technically a strained cheese from Iceland, while Greek yogurt is a strained yogurt, but they are used in much the same way. Their nutrition is very close, with a few small differences.

Nutrition per 100 g. Highlighted cell is the higher (or, for calories, sugar and fat, the lower) of the two.

Per 100 g Greek yogurt Skyr
Calories 59 kcal 63 kcal
Protein 10 g 11 g
Carbs 3.6 g 4 g
Fat 0.4 g 0.2 g
Fiber 0 g 0 g
Sugar 3.2 g 4 g
Omega-3 0 g 0 g
Iron 0.1 mg 0.1 mg
Calcium 110 mg 150 mg
Potassium 141 mg 150 mg
Magnesium 11 mg 11 mg
Vitamin C 0 mg 0 mg
Zinc 0.5 mg 0.5 mg
Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg 0.6 mcg

The verdict

Both are excellent high-protein, low-fat choices, and the differences are small. Skyr is often slightly higher in protein and calcium, while Greek yogurt is widely available and comes in more varieties. For most people the best choice is simply whichever they prefer and will eat regularly. Choose plain versions to keep added sugar low.

Greek yogurt

Choose Greek yogurt for wide availability, more flavour varieties, and versatile everyday use.

Skyr

Choose skyr for a slightly higher protein and calcium hit in a similar creamy texture.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Can you substitute skyr for Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute skyr for Greek yogurt in almost any recipe or meal, and the other way round. They have a very similar thick texture and high protein content, so they work the same in smoothies, bowls, baking, dips and as a topping. Skyr is slightly higher in protein and calcium, but the difference is small enough that you can swap them freely.

Is skyr or Greek yogurt higher in protein?

They are very close, but skyr is often marginally higher in protein. In their plain, fat-free forms, skyr provides around 11 g of protein per 100 g and Greek yogurt around 10 g. Both are excellent high-protein dairy choices.

Does skyr have more calcium than Greek yogurt?

Yes, slightly. Plain skyr provides around 150 mg of calcium per 100 g, compared with around 110 mg in fat-free Greek yogurt. Both are good sources of calcium, but skyr has a small edge.

What is the difference between skyr and Greek yogurt?

Skyr is technically a strained fresh cheese from Iceland, while Greek yogurt is a strained yogurt. In practice they look, taste and are used similarly. Both are thick, high in protein and low in fat when plain. The main nutritional difference is that skyr is marginally higher in protein and calcium.

Is skyr the same as Greek yogurt?

Not exactly, but they are very similar. Skyr is a traditional Icelandic cultured dairy product made like a soft cheese, while Greek yogurt is strained yogurt. They have almost the same texture, protein content and uses, which is why they are so easily confused and swapped.

Which is better for weight loss?

Both are great for weight loss thanks to their high protein and low fat, which help control hunger. Choose whichever you prefer, and pick plain versions to avoid the added sugar found in flavoured varieties.

Nutrition values are per 100 g from typical USDA data and vary with variety, cut and preparation. This is general information, not dietary advice.