Oikos Triple Zero is a Greek yogurt produced by Dannon that contains 0% fat, 0g of sugar, and 0% artificial sweeteners. With its thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor, Oikos Triple Zero has become a popular yogurt choice for those looking for a high protein, low-calorie snack or light breakfast. But is it truly a nutritious option? Here we’ll take an in-depth look at the ingredients, nutrition facts, and health impacts of Oikos Triple Zero yogurt to determine if it lives up to its healthy reputation.
Nutrition Facts
Oikos Triple Zero Greek nonfat yogurt contains just 80 calories per 5.3oz single-serve cup. It provides an impressive 15g of protein, accounting for 30% of the Daily Value (DV), with 0g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 5mg cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 2g total carbohydrate, 0g fiber, and 0g sugar per serving.
Oikos Triple Zero is an excellent source of calcium, providing 10% DV with 10% DV vitamin D as well. It also contains small amounts of potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin A.
Here is a nutritional label for Oikos Triple Zero yogurt:
| Nutrition Facts | 5.3oz | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 80 | |
| Total Fat 0g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat 0g | 0% | |
| Trans Fat 0g | ||
| Cholesterol 5mg | 2% | |
| Sodium 50mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 2g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber 0g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars 0g | ||
| Includes 0g Added Sugars | ||
| Protein 15g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D 10% | Calcium 10% | |
| Iron 0% | Potassium 2% |
As you can see, Oikos Triple Zero provides an excellent nutritional profile of high protein, calcium, and vitamins with minimal calories, fat, carbs, and sugar.
Ingredients
Oikos Triple Zero contains just a few simple ingredients:
– Nonfat yogurt (cultured pasteurized nonfat milk)
– Milk protein concentrate
– Live and active cultures including Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, L. acidophilus, L. casei, and Bifidobacterium animalis lactis
– Natural flavors
– Vegetable juice concentrate for color
– Vitamin D3
The main ingredient is nonfat yogurt made from cultured nonfat milk. Milk protein concentrate adds an extra boost of protein. Live probiotic cultures provide digestive and immunity boosting benefits. Natural flavors and vegetable juice provide taste without any artificial sweeteners.
Overall, the ingredients consist of real, dairy-based foods without artificial additives. This simple, straightforward list means Oikos Triple Zero has an authentic nutritional profile.
Benefits of Oikos Triple Zero
So what are the specific benefits that make Oikos Triple Zero a healthy choice?
High in Protein
With 15g of protein per serving, Oikos Triple Zero provides an excellent source of this important nutrient. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle, supporting bone health, keeping you feeling full and energized, and maintaining weight. The culturing process of yogurt produces a denser, more concentrated protein content than milk alone.
Probiotics for Gut Health
Oikos Triple Zero contains live and active cultures including strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis. Consuming these probiotics can help populate your gut microbiome with beneficial bacteria that support digestive and overall health in many ways, including:
– Improved digestion and absorption of nutrients
– Enhanced immune function
– Lower risk of diabetes and obesity
– Better weight management
Eating yogurt with live cultures is an easy way to promote good gut health.
Calcium and Vitamin D for Strong Bones
Getting adequate calcium and vitamin D is important for building and maintaining strong bones as you age. Oikos Triple Zero provides 10% DV for both of these essential nutrients per serving. Enjoying it regularly can help you meet your daily needs for these bone-supporting minerals.
Convenient Source of Nutrition
Oikos Triple Zero comes in portable single-serve cups that don’t require refrigeration until after opening. This makes it an incredibly convenient way to get quality nutrition on busy days when you’re on the go. Compared to less healthy snacks like candy, chips or drive-thru meals, grabbing an Oikos Triple Zero yogurt is a simple way to nourish your body.
Low in Sugar and Calories
With 0g of sugar and just 80 calories per serving, Oikos Triple Zero provides all the benefits of yogurt without unnecessary added sugar or excess calories. This makes it a great choice if you’re watching your sugar and calorie intake.
Potential Downsides
While Oikos Triple Zero has some clear nutritional advantages, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
Contains Milk Protein Concentrate
Milk protein concentrate (MPC) is a processed form of milk protein used to boost the protein content in yogurt. While the FDA considers MPC safe, some criticize the use of MPC as an additive instead of just using real food ingredients like milk and yogurt.
However, MPC is made by filtering skim milk, so it is still a real dairy product. The concentration simply changes the ratio of protein to carbohydrates and fat.
Higher in Sodium
While 50mg of sodium per serving is low compared to many processed foods, it is higher in sodium compared to plain, unflavored Greek yogurt. Those restricting sodium levels may want to be mindful of intake from Oikos Triple Zero.
Contains Natural Flavors
Oikos Triple Zero uses natural flavors to improve taste instead of sweeteners. While this sounds healthier than artificial flavors, natural flavors are still vague additives that may be derived from various processed plant or animal sources. Those seeking an additive-free option may want to look for plain yogurt without flavors.
Lacks Live Cultures
While Oikos Triple Zero does contain probiotic cultures, the live cultures can only survive once the product is refrigerated. Leaving yogurt unrefrigerated, such as storing the cups at room temperature, can kill off the beneficial probiotic bacteria.
Sugar-Free, But Not Carb-Free
With 0g sugar per serving, Oikos Triple Zero appeals to followers of low-carb and keto diets. However, it still contains 2g total carbohydrates per serving from naturally occurring milk sugars (lactose). So it is not fully carb- or lactose-free.
Oikos Triple Zero Versus Regular Yogurt
How does Oikos Triple Zero compare to regular flavored yogurts? Here’s a nutritional comparison of 5.3oz servings:
| Nutrition Facts | Oikos Triple Zero | Yoplait Original Strawberry |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 80 | 150 |
| Total Fat | 0g | 2.5g |
| Protein | 15g | 5g |
| Sugars | 0g | 26g |
As you can see, Oikos Triple Zero contains far fewer calories and sugar compared to flavored regular yogurts like Yoplait. It also provides much more protein. This comparison shows why Oikos Triple Zero is one of the healthiest yogurt choices.
Best Uses for Oikos Triple Zero
Here are some of the best ways to enjoy Oikos Triple Zero as part of a healthy lifestyle:
Breakfast
Oikos Triple Zero is a nutritious breakfast choice full of protein, calcium, probiotics, and vitamin D to start your day off right. Enjoy it alone or paired with fruit, nuts, or whole grain toast.
Post-Workout
The protein in Oikos Triple Zero makes it an excellent post-workout recovery snack. Protein helps repair and rebuild muscle tissue after exercise.
Low-Calorie Snack
When you’re craving something sweet and creamy, Oikos Triple Zero can satisfy your taste buds with just 80 calories and 0g sugar. A much healthier choice than ice cream, candy, baked goods or other sugary snacks.
Smoothies
Blend Oikos Triple Zero with your favorite fruits and veggies for a nutritious probiotic smoothie full of extra protein. It creates a thicker, creamier smoothie consistency.
Parfaits
Layer Oikos Triple Zero with crunchy granola and fresh berries or other fruit for a pretty parfait packed with flavor, texture, protein and fiber.
Dips
Oikos Triple Zero makes an excellent healthy base for savory Greek yogurt dips for snacking or spreading on sandwiches. Mix in any combination of herbs, spices, garlic, lemon, veggies, and olive oil.
Is Oikos Triple Zero Healthy: The Verdict
Overall, Oikos Triple Zero makes an excellent healthy choice thanks to its stellar nutrition stats including:
– 15g protein
– Calcium and vitamin D for bone health
– Live probiotic cultures for gut health
– 0g sugar and 0g fat
– Just 80 calories per serving
The simple, straightforward ingredient list also means you’re getting wholesome dairy nutrition from Oikos Triple Zero.
Potential downsides like containing milk protein concentrate and sodium may make it less ideal for people looking for completely additive-free or very low sodium yogurt. It also lacks fiber and live cultures once opened.
However, for most people seeking the protein, calcium, probiotics and overall nutrition of Greek yogurt in a convenient, low-calorie, low-sugar form, Oikos Triple Zero is an excellent choice. Its combination of nutrition, convenience, and dairy-based ingredients make Oikos Triple Zero one of the healthiest yogurts available.
Just be sure to enjoy it plain or with healthy add-ins like fruit rather than pairing it with sugary granola, syrups or other high-calorie toppings that would negate the low-calorie benefits.
Within a balanced diet and active lifestyle, enjoying Oikos Triple Zero yogurt can definitely be part of an overall healthy way of eating. So next time you’re shopping for yogurt, put Oikos Triple Zero in your cart and feel good about the healthy choice you’re making.
