Eating yogurt that has been previously frozen is generally safe, as long as it has been stored properly and thawed correctly before eating. Freezing is an effective way to extend the shelf life of yogurt while maintaining its nutritional value and taste. However, there are some precautions to take when freezing and thawing yogurt to ensure safety and quality.
Can you freeze yogurt?
Yes, you can safely freeze most types of yogurt, including plain yogurt, Greek yogurt, yogurt with live cultures, and yogurt with fruit. The low temperature of the freezer slows down the activity of the live cultures and bacteria in yogurt, preventing spoilage. It also prevents the growth of mold and other microorganisms that could make the yogurt unsafe to eat.
It’s important to check the expiration date before freezing yogurt. Yogurt that is past its expiration date should not be frozen and eaten later. Also, avoid freezing yogurt past the “sell by” date, as the quality and taste will decline over time in the freezer.
Does freezing kill the probiotics in yogurt?
Freezing yogurt does not kill all the beneficial live cultures and probiotics, but it does slow their growth and reduce their numbers. Studies have found that frozen yogurt retains 10-60% of its probiotics compared to fresh yogurt. The live cultures go into an inactive state at freezing temperatures but revitalize when thawed.
Greek yogurt in particular retains more probiotics during freezing than regular yogurt since it is strained. The lower water content helps protect the live cultures. However, there will still be some loss of probiotics with freezing.
How to freeze yogurt properly
Follow these steps for best results freezing yogurt:
- Check the “sell by” or expiration date and make sure the yogurt is not expired.
- Freeze yogurt in clean airtight containers, ideally small single-serve portions.
- Leave at least 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of containers to allow for expansion.
- Avoid freezing large containers of yogurt or freezing yogurt more than once, as this leads to more probiotic loss.
- Place the containers in the back of the freezer where temperature is most consistent.
- Frozen yogurt will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer before quality deteriorates.
Can you freeze yogurt with fruit?
It’s best to avoid freezing flavored or fruit yogurt. The water content in the fruit can cause texture changes, making the yogurt icy or grainy. The fruit may also leach water into the yogurt over time, resulting in separation and off-flavors.
If you do want to freeze yogurt with fruit, choose yogurts with puréed or blended fruit rather than chunks or pieces. Use within 1 month for best quality and taste.
How to thaw frozen yogurt
Properly thawing frozen yogurt helps maintain its texture and taste.
Recommended thawing methods include:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator – This slowly brings the yogurt to an ideal temperature without allowing the outside to get too warm.
- Thaw in the microwave – Microwave yogurt on low power in short intervals, stirring frequently, until it reaches a soft, scoopable consistency.
- Thaw in cold water – Seal yogurt in a plastic bag and submerge in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
- Leave at room temperature – Thaw frozen yogurt containers on the counter for 1-2 hours. Do not leave more than 2 hours.
Avoid thawing yogurt on the counter at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as the outer edges can enter the “danger zone” temperature while the inner center is still frozen. This increases the risk of bacterial growth.
Do not refreeze yogurt after it has thawed. The texture will deteriorate and bacteria may start growing again as it thaws. Store thawed yogurt in the refrigerator and use within 1 week.
Is it safe to eat yogurt that was frozen?
Yes, it is completely safe to eat yogurt that has been properly frozen and thawed. The freezing process does not introduce any risks or make the yogurt unsafe.
As long as the thawed yogurt looks and smells normal, it is fine to eat. Discard any yogurt that smells sour or unpleasant or has signs of mold.
The live cultures in yogurt are preserved through the freezing process and become active again after thawing. So the frozen yogurt retains the same health and nutritional benefits as fresh yogurt.
Does frozen yogurt taste different?
Frozen yogurt may have a slightly different texture and taste compared to fresh yogurt. The freezing process can damage some of the yogurt proteins, which impacts the thickness and mouthfeel. Frozen yogurt also crystallizes a bit, giving it a grainier, icy texture.
The live cultures cause yogurt to be tangy and tart. Since some cultures are lost in freezing, frozen yogurt may taste less tangy than fresh. Letting the frozen yogurt thaw slowly in the fridge helps minimize texture and taste differences.
Is thawed yogurt safe for babies?
Thawed yogurt that has been properly stored in the freezer is safe for babies and young children to eat. The freezing process does not make yogurt any less safe or introduce new health risks.
However, an infant’s digestive system is still developing and may be more sensitive to changes in texture and flavor. For this reason, it is usually recommended to avoid giving babies and toddlers yogurt that has been frozen and thawed.
If you do feed your baby thawed frozen yogurt, look for signs they are tolerating it well. Discontinue use if you notice diarrhea, constipation or upset stomach.
Can you refreeze thawed yogurt?
It is not recommended to refreeze yogurt once it has fully thawed. Refreezing and re-thawing yogurt allows more bacteria growth and makes the texture watery. The proteins will degrade further, creating a yogurt with poor mouthfeel.
If yogurt partially thaws during a power outage or from freezer temperature fluctuations, it can safely be refrozen. But yogurt thawed to refrigerator temperature or above should be used within 1 week and not be refrozen.
Signs yogurt is spoiled after being frozen
Look for these signs that previously frozen yogurt has gone bad:
- Liquid or watery texture
- Grainy, icy, or crystallized texture
- Separation of whey from the yogurt
- Sour or unpleasant smell
- Mold growth
- Expired “use by” date
Yogurt that displays any of these characteristics should be discarded.
How to store thawed yogurt
Properly storing thawed frozen yogurt helps prevent spoilage and bacterial overgrowth.
- Refrigerate thawed yogurt right away and use within 1 week.
- Do not store yogurt at room temperature once thawed.
- Keep yogurt containers sealed to prevent air exposure.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations – don’t repeatedly open the refrigerator.
- Check for expiration dates and discard thawed yogurt past 7 days.
Benefits of freezing yogurt
Here are some of the top benefits of freezing yogurt:
- Longer shelf life – Freezing extends the shelf life of yogurt from weeks to months.
- Food waste reduction – Freezing allows you to preserve yogurt and prevent having to throw it away.
- Cost savings – Buy yogurt in bulk on sale, then portion and freeze to save money.
- Convenience – Thaw small portions as needed instead of making frequent yogurt runs.
- Preserve nutritional value – Frozen yogurt maintains many of the same nutrients as fresh yogurt.
- Preserve taste – With proper thawing method, frozen yogurt tastes similar to fresh.
Freezing is an easy way to reduce food waste and always have yogurt handy without having to run to the store.
Freeze yogurt in perfect portions
Consider freezing yogurt in single servings to make it easy to thaw just what you need. Some ideal portion sizes include:
- 3-4 oz for snacks
- 5-6 oz for breakfast parfaits
- 8 oz for smoothies
- 6-8 oz for lunch sides or dips
For kids’ yogurts, go with 3-4 oz portions. Use ice cube trays, silicone molds, or small reusable containers to freeze yogurt in ready-to-eat sizes.
Tips for eating frozen yogurt
Here are some tips for enjoying frozen yogurt:
- Look for yogurts labeled “freeze-thaw stable” for better texture.
- Thaw yogurt completely before eating for ideal texture and taste.
- Stir thawed yogurt to evenly distribute ingredients and re-incorporate whey.
- If too icy, let yogurt sit 5 minutes at room temperature to soften before eating.
- Avoid freezing yogurt more than 1-2 times, as texture declines.
- Blend frozen yogurt into smoothies for thicker, creamier drinks.
- Use thawed yogurt within 1 week for food safety and peak quality.
Delicious ways to use frozen yogurt
Frozen yogurt is endlessly versatile. Here are some tasty ways to eat thawed frozen yogurt:
- Breakfast parfaits layered with fruit and granola
- Smoothies blended with fruit and juices
- Overnight oats mixed into the oats
- Chia pudding mixed in for protein and thickness
- Healthy dips for fruits and crackers
- Substitute for sour cream on baked potatoes
- Salad dressings whisked with olive oil, garlic, and herbs
- Sandwich spread in lieu of mayo or mustard
- Pancake and waffle batter to add tang and moisture
- Freezer fudge blended with chocolate chips and peanut butter
Get creative with recipes and enjoy the convenience of frozen yogurt anytime!
Things to keep in mind
When freezing and thawing yogurt, keep these key points in mind:
- Check expiration dates first
- Freeze in airtight containers
- Avoid freezing more than once
- Thaw in the refrigerator for best results
- Refreezing is not recommended
- Use thawed yogurt within 1 week
- Discard any yogurt that smells bad or has mold
As long as you take care when freezing, thawing, and storing yogurt, eating previously frozen yogurt poses no additional safety risks or health concerns.
The bottom line
Yogurt that has been properly frozen and thawed can be safely eaten without worry. Take care to store yogurt correctly in the freezer and refrigerator and avoid signs of spoilage after thawing. While some compromise in texture and taste is likely, frozen yogurt retains enough probiotics and nutrients to still provide excellent health benefits.
Freezing is an economical way to reduce yogurt waste, save money, and always have a nutritious convenience food ready to grab anytime. Take simple precautions for handling frozen yogurt and enjoy knowing it is a completely safe and effective way to preserve yogurt longer.