Frozen Yogurt vs. Ice Cream: Which is better for you?

There are times when nothing can be more satisfying than a frozen delicacy that is creamy.

The marketing of frozen yogurt frequently asserts that it is healthier for you than ice cream, but you could find yourself wondering whether this is actually the case while you are perusing the various grocery store alternatives.

This article compares the nutrition and components of frozen yogurt and ice cream to see which has the potential to be the more nutritious option.

Ingredients

The probiotic content of frozen yoghurt and its lower fat content are the primary points of emphasis in the argument that frozen yoghurt is the healthier cousin of ice cream.

The overall healthiness of frozen yogurt largely depends on the ingredients used in the particular brand and flavor, which ultimately determine its nutritional value in comparison to ice cream.

Ice cream and frozen yoghurt share two primary components: sugar and dairy products. Both also add flavorings or other substances to the mixture.

Yoghurt, which is cultured milk, is the source of frozen yoghurt, not ice cream. The amount of fat in the milk largely determines the amount of fat in the final product.

Conversely, ice cream frequently uses cream as its foundation. In addition to egg yolks, the process of churning ice cream involves the incorporation of air into the mixture.

In order to compensate for the naturally sour taste of the yoghurt, certain frozen yoghurts may contain nearly the same amount of added sugar as ice cream, or even more. We should take this into consideration.

How they’re made

We produce both ice cream and frozen yoghurt using different types of ingredients and using different production methods.

Quantity of fat

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in order for ice cream to be classified as ice cream, it must have at least ten percent milk fat. Some ice cream, on the other hand, may contain as much as 25 percent milk fat.

As its name implies, cream serves as the base for ice cream, and the cream itself provides the milk fat.

Instead, the fat in frozen yoghurt comes from cultured milk. In general, full-fat frozen yoghurt has between 3 and 6 percent milk fat, and low-fat frozen yoghurt has between 2 and 4 percent milk fat.

Probiotics

For the purpose of producing frozen yoghurt, pasteurized milk undergoes fermentation with a gut-friendly bacteria, typically Lactobacillus bulgaricus or Streptococcus thermophilus.

However, unlike “ice cream,” the term “frozen yoghurt” lacks regulation, implying that there is no set amount of yoghurt required in the final product.

However, unlike frozen yoghurt, ice cream does not use fermented milk products.

Process

We produce ice cream by churning cream, sugar, flavourings, and sometimes egg yolks until the mixture becomes frozen. Repeat this process until the product reaches a frozen state. Additionally, we monitor the amount of absorbed air into the batter, as it plays a crucial role in creating a fluffy texture.

Heating milk and sugar, adding active bacterial cultures, and allowing the mixture to cool and ferment are the first steps in making frozen yoghurt. Once the mixture freezes, the incorporation of air results in a more uniform texture.

Remember that either the pasteurization or freezing stages of the production process could destroy the beneficial bacterial cultures present in frozen yoghurt.

Nutrients

The most significant nutritional difference between ice cream and frozen yoghurt is the amount of fat and sugar they contain.

Below is more information about the comparison of half a cup (118 millilitres) of frozen yoghurt and full-fat vanilla ice cream.

Each of these is a respectable source of calcium. A serving size of ice cream is equivalent to 8% of the daily value (DV), while a serving size of half a cup (118 mL) of frozen yoghurt contains 7% of the alue. Calcium is particularly essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and heart function.

Both do not include any dietary fibre, which is beneficial to maintaining a healthy digestive tract.

In addition, it is important to note that both ice cream and frozen yoghurt contain a significant amount of sugar and calories.

It is acceptable for the majority of people to consume this every once in a while. On the other hand, consuming a diet that is high in added sugar might be detrimental to your health. A diet that is considered to be high in added sugar is one that contains more than ten percent of the total calories consumed on a daily basis, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Consuming a diet high in added sugar can increase your chances of developing obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Flavor and texture

Frozen yogurt often has a more sour taste than other types of yogurt since it contains cultured milk. In order to counteract this, certain frozen yogurts include a higher amount of added sugar.

Churning folds air into ice cream, giving it a texture that is typically more airy and softer than other types of ice cream.

When compared to their hard-packed equivalents, soft-serve types of ice cream and frozen yogurt will typically provide a smoother sensation in the mouth. There may be some slight variations in the texture.

Benefits frozen yogurt vs. ice cream

Both frozen yogurt and ice cream are wonderful self-treats. If you do consume, though, you should do it sparingly.

Both protein and calcium will be added to your diet. But there’s also additional sugar, which could be bad for you. After that, consider the possible health advantages of frozen yogurt.

Fermenting the milk uses active bacterial cultures used by makers of frozen yogurt. Your intestinal flora may benefit from these probiotics.

Studies have linked probiotic yogurt to health promotion by lowering both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol. It may also lessen depression and anxiety.

These are but a handful of the possible health advantages of probiotics. Notably, though, this research focused on the effects of probiotic yogurt rather than frozen yogurt.

Some living cultures in frozen yogurt may not survive the freezing process, so it may not offer the same probiotic benefits as non-frozen yogurt.

To determine if the frozen yogurt you’re thinking about has live cultures, read the label.

You could be better off with ordinary yogurt if your primary reason for choosing frozen yogurt is its probiotic properties.

Another potential benefit of frozen yogurt is that it has less lactose than ice cream.

The frozen yogurt’s fermentation process may lessen the amount of lactose in the final product. This is why those who are lactose intolerant may find frozen yogurt easier to digest than ice cream.

Downsides

Frozen yogurt and ice cream, which contain calcium and protein, may be a healthier alternative to chips, confectionery, and other empty-calorie foods. Nevertheless, both frozen delights contain calories and added sugars.

Therefore, consume them in moderation, if at all possible.

Additionally, consider regulating your portion sizes and the quantity of additional garnishes and flavorings you incorporate when indulging.

Unlike ice cream, frozen yogurt is typically available as a self-service item with a full garnish bar. This could potentially impede the ability to accurately measure the portion.

Soft frozen yogurt containers, on average, contain 16–24 ounces of the creamy delight; therefore, portion control is essential. You can achieve this by asking for a serving container for a child.

In addition, topping bars contain numerous low-nutrient, high-sugar options, such as syrups and chocolates. These garnishes will contribute to the total number of calories and added sugar.

Consider substituting these with fresh fruit and almonds in order to increase the nutritional value of your frozen yogurt.

Which should you choose?

The nutritional value of ice cream and frozen yogurt is predominantly determined by the preparation processes and ingredient compositions. Additionally, portion control and garnishes have an impact on the overall nutritional value.

Icing cream typically contains a higher lipid content, whereas frozen yogurt may contain a greater quantity of added sugar.

Although not all frozen yogurt is probiotic-containing, it is advantageous for the digestive tract. In order to capitalize on these advantages, seek out frozen yogurts bearing labeling that indicates the presence of live and active cultures.

Individuals with lactose intolerance may prefer frozen yogurt containing active cultures due to its potential reduced lactose content.

Individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance will likely prefer a product with a reduced sugar content. Given this circumstance, it could be more rational to select ice cream as a rare indulgence. Consider purchasing reduced-sugar or sugar-free varieties.

When attempting to restrict fat consumption, frozen yogurt is a more suitable option. You can also opt for nonfat or reduced-fat frozen yogurt to further reduce your weight. Avoid overfilling your cup and be mindful of your portions in the self-service line.

Always examine the product label before purchasing frozen yogurt or ice cream, as each brand and flavor is unique.

Consider adorning your frozen delicacy with freshly chopped nuts or fruit to boost its nutritional value.

The bottom line

In contrast to the higher lipid content of ice cream, frozen yogurt may contain a greater quantity of added sugar. Both ice cream and frozen yogurt, produced with cream and cultured milk, contain dairy and sugar.

In general, ice cream has a lighter consistency, whereas frozen yogurt has a more tart taste. The healthiest frozen yogurt contains live and active cultures, which are beneficial to the digestive tract.

A variety of flavors and brands have distinct nutrient profiles; therefore, prior to purchase, compare your options and examine the label.

Please be mindful that both ice cream and frozen yogurt are calorie-dense and contain sugar, so it is advisable to consume both treats in moderation.