In a world of protein bars and powders, it’s easy to forget that one of the most powerful whole food sources of protein is also one of the oldest: the humble, yet powerful Greek yoghurt.
But not all Greek yoghurts are created equal, and with clever marketing tactics, and word-play, consumers can be easily fooled into thinking that what they are consuming is Greek yoghurt when in fact it is not.
Many commercial brands on the shelf today are labelled “Greek-style”, but these are not made using traditional methods. Instead of straining the yoghurt (which is how Greek yoghurt is made), manufacturers use thickeners, starches, milk powders, and/ or stabilisers to imitate the texture of real Greek yoghurt — without the same protein benefits, and with lower nutritional benefits. These products are deliberately misleading, especially for consumers seeking high-protein, gut-friendly foods.
Greek yoghurt is made using the same basic process as regular yoghurt: fermenting milk with live cultures, but what sets Greek yoghurt apart is an extra step (expensive because it’s done by hand and not machine) — it’s strained through muslin cloth to remove some of the whey (the liquid part of the milk).
Here’s what happens during the hanging process:
- Water & lactose (milk sugars) & some minerals are drained off
- What’s left behind is a thicker, creamier, more concentrated yoghurt that is higher in protein and lower in sugars
- Since the solids (especially the casein proteins) stay behind, the protein density increases naturally resulting in higher protein levels and a slower digesting whole food – good for muscle recovery, blood sugar stability and easier digestion.
At Bush Hill Cheese, all our yoghurt is produced the traditional way by hand — straining full cream Jersey milk through muslin cloths, without adding any additives, thickeners, gelatine or shortcuts. This centuries’ old method naturally boosts the protein content and gives our yoghurt it’s signature thick and creamy texture.
We are proud to have confirmation of the quality and taste of yoghurt – as we recently were awarded Silver Awards in the 2025 SA Food & Beverage Awards for our Lactose Free Greek Yoghurt and Strawberry Yoghurt – which is also a traditional Greek yoghurt simply with delicious strawberry pulp added for an extra decadent kick!
Whether you’re focused on building muscle, gut health, fitness, or simply want yoghurt that’s made the right way — ours is the real deal.
📩 Want to stock our range? Email us on sales@bushhillcheese.co.za
