Yes, organic does make a difference – and we’re not just talking about the price tag! Here’s how organic yoghurt will save you money in the long run by improving your health, reducing your exposure to pesticides and boosting your digestion. Plus, we unpack the many reasons why we’re such fans of yoghurt here at IQS.

Yoghurt has long been celebrated as a wholesome and probiotic-rich food, offering numerous health benefits, but when it comes to choosing between organic and non-organic varieties, the decision can be puzzling. For one, conventioal yoghurt is often cheaper, making it a more appealing draw, but the research shows that, long term, organic varieties will save your health, time and money. How? It all has to do with nutrition, exposure to pesticides and chemicals, along with probiotic count.  its dedication to sustainable practices, promises an array of advantages that extend beyond taste.   

Farming Practices: Organic yoghurt is made from milk sourced from organic dairy farms. These farms follow strict guidelines that prioritise sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. Organic dairy farmers avoid using synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their feed or on their pastures. Additionally, organic cows are not treated with antibiotics or growth hormones, and they have access to outdoor pasture areas. Conventional yoghurt, on the other hand, may come from conventional dairy farms that may use synthetic pesticides and herbicides on their crops and pastures. Conventional cows may also be treated with antibiotics or growth hormones to enhance milk production. The feed given to conventional cows may include GMOs.

Use of Chemicals: Organic yoghurt is produced using milk from cows that graze on pastures that are pesticide-free – or at least have minimal pesticides – and are not exposed to synthetic chemicals or hormones. Organic yoghurt makers also avoid using artificial additives, preservatives, and synthetic thickeners in the yoghurt-making process. Now conventional yoghurt has no such restraints – it may contain traces of synthetic chemicals and hormones if the cows have been treated with them – and usually, they have. Some conventional yoghurt products may also include artificial additives and preservatives, further adding to your intake of inflammatory ingredients. Research from the Environmental Journal showed that an organic diet reduced exposure to pesticides by a whopping 60%!

Why Organic is Better

Probiotics: Organic yoghurt gains its edge over conventional counterparts when it comes to probiotics. Organic dairy farmers adhere to strict guidelines that limit the use of antibiotics and synthetic hormones in their cows, ensuring healthier and less stressed animals. These happy cows lead to superior-quality milk, packed with beneficial probiotics that thrive in the yoghurt-making process. As a result, organic yoghurt boasts a more diverse and abundant population of live cultures, contributing to improved gut health.

Health benefits: Nourishing from Within Organic yoghurt emerges as the champion in the quest for optimal health benefits. By steering clear of harmful chemicals and GMOs, organic options offer a purer and more nutrient-rich alternative. It’s free from residues of synthetic pesticides and growth hormones, reducing the risk of potential adverse health effects. Additionally, the higher levels of beneficial probiotics present in organic yoghurt aid digestion, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall well-being.

Better for the environment: Choosing organic yoghurt is an act of environmental consciousness. Organic dairy farming prioritises sustainability and embraces natural practices that safeguard the soil, water, and air. By eschewing synthetic fertilisers and focusing on regenerative methods, organic farms support biodiversity and protect ecosystems. The absence of harmful chemicals in organic yoghurt production minimises the impact on our delicate environment, making it a planet-friendly choice.

Gut health: Organic yogurt plays a significant role in supporting gut health – from healthy fats to probiotics, you’ve got two of the major elements of a happy gut in one place. The abundance of probiotics in organic yogurt aids in maintaining a diverse and balanced gut microbiota. These live cultures promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which in turn contribute to improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and enhanced nutrient absorption. A healthier gut nurtured by organic yoghurt can positively influence various aspects of our well-being, from mood to metabolism. 

Excited to make your own yoghurt? You’ve come to the right place! Here on the 21-Day Gut Rebalance Program, we’re sharing our IQS yoghurt recipe, along with a host of other home ferments, from sourdough and kimchi to kombucha. Time to get your apron on! We’ve got delicious, nourishing recipes and exclusive expert content to support you on your way to better health. Whether it's constipation, bloating or even stress that's got you down, it could be your gut warning you that you're missing out on the gut-nourishing foods that help us thrive.