Which Yogurt Brands Contain Lactobacillus Reuteri?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Yogurt & Cultured Dairy

When it comes to gut health and overall wellness, probiotics have taken center stage in recent years. Among the many beneficial bacteria that support a balanced digestive system, Lactobacillus reuteri stands out for its unique properties and promising health benefits. This particular strain has garnered attention for its ability to enhance immune function, improve digestion, and even promote oral health.

Yogurt, a beloved fermented dairy product, is often celebrated as a natural source of probiotics. However, not all yogurts are created equal when it comes to the types of beneficial bacteria they contain. Understanding which yogurts specifically include Lactobacillus reuteri can help consumers make informed choices that align with their health goals. This exploration delves into the world of probiotic yogurts, highlighting the significance of Lactobacillus reuteri and how to identify products that feature this powerful microorganism.

Yogurt Brands Containing Lactobacillus Reuteri

Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic strain naturally found in the gut of many mammals, including humans. It is recognized for its potential health benefits such as supporting digestive health, enhancing immune function, and promoting oral health. When looking for yogurts containing Lactobacillus reuteri, it is essential to verify the product’s specific probiotic strains, as not all yogurts include this bacterium.

Several commercial yogurt brands have incorporated Lactobacillus reuteri in their formulations. These brands often highlight the presence of this probiotic on their packaging or marketing materials due to its growing popularity.

  • BioGaia Protectis Yogurt: This is one of the most well-known brands that specifically includes Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. BioGaia is often used in probiotic supplements but also offers dairy products containing this strain.
  • Lifeway ProBugs Yogurt: While Lifeway offers various probiotic strains, certain product lines have been reported to contain Lactobacillus reuteri.
  • GoodBelly Probiotic Yogurt: Known for including multiple probiotic strains, GoodBelly occasionally features Lactobacillus reuteri in select products.
  • Private Label and Specialty Brands: Some regional or health-focused yogurt brands might add Lactobacillus reuteri, especially those marketed in Europe or Scandinavia, where probiotic research and use are more prevalent.

It is important to note that the presence of Lactobacillus reuteri in yogurt can vary by batch and region, so consumers should check product labels or contact manufacturers to confirm.

Brand Probiotic Strain(s) Product Type Availability
BioGaia Protectis Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 Probiotic Yogurt & Supplements International (Europe, North America)
Lifeway ProBugs Varies; includes L. reuteri in some products Children’s Yogurt USA, Select Regions
GoodBelly Multiple strains including L. reuteri Probiotic Yogurt Drinks USA
Regional Specialty Brands L. reuteri (strain-specific) Various Yogurt Products Europe, Scandinavia

How to Identify Yogurt Containing Lactobacillus Reuteri

Identifying yogurt products that contain Lactobacillus reuteri requires some attention to detail, as not all manufacturers list the full strain information on their labels. Here are key steps and tips to help consumers find yogurts with this probiotic:

  • Check the Ingredients List: Look for specific mentions of *Lactobacillus reuteri* or its strain identifiers such as DSM 17938 or ATCC PTA 6475. Some products specify the strain number, which confirms the exact probiotic included.
  • Look for Probiotic Claims on Packaging: Many yogurts that contain Lactobacillus reuteri emphasize this probiotic on their front labels, often under headings like “contains probiotics” or “with L. reuteri.”
  • Consult Product Websites: Manufacturer websites frequently provide detailed information about the probiotic strains used in their yogurts, including scientific references and health benefits.
  • Contact Customer Service: If labeling is unclear, reaching out to the brand’s customer service can clarify whether Lactobacillus reuteri is present and in what quantities.
  • Consider Supplement Options: Some consumers combine yogurt consumption with probiotic supplements containing L. reuteri to ensure adequate intake.

Health Considerations When Choosing Probiotic Yogurt

When selecting a yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri, it is important to consider factors beyond the presence of the probiotic strain. These include:

  • CFU Count (Colony Forming Units): Effective probiotic yogurts generally contain at least 10^7 to 10^9 CFU of live bacteria per serving. Check if the product specifies the live culture count for L. reuteri.
  • Strain Specificity: Different strains of Lactobacillus reuteri may have varying effects. For example, DSM 17938 is widely studied for gastrointestinal and immune benefits, while other strains may target oral health.
  • Sugar Content: Some probiotic yogurts contain added sugars or sweeteners, which can offset health benefits. Opt for low-sugar or unsweetened varieties when possible.
  • Fat Content: Depending on dietary preferences, choose between full-fat, low-fat, or non-fat yogurts. Fat content can influence the yogurt’s texture and probiotic viability.
  • Storage and Shelf Life: Probiotic viability can diminish over time and with improper storage. Refrigerate yogurts and consume them before expiration to ensure live cultures remain effective.

By considering these factors, consumers can select yogurts that maximize the health benefits associated with Lactobacillus reuteri and align with personal dietary needs.

Yogurt Brands Containing Lactobacillus Reuteri

Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic strain known for its potential benefits in digestive health, immune support, and oral health. Not all yogurts contain this specific strain, as probiotic content varies by brand and formulation. When seeking yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri, it is important to check product labels or manufacturer information to ensure the presence of this probiotic.

Several yogurt brands and products that commonly include Lactobacillus reuteri are:

  • BioGaia® Probiotic Yogurt: BioGaia, a well-known probiotic company, often incorporates L. reuteri strains in their dairy products and supplements.
  • Streptococcus Thermophilus and L. Reuteri Blended Yogurts: Some specialty yogurts combine traditional strains with L. reuteri for enhanced probiotic diversity.
  • Certain European Brands: Yogurts produced in Scandinavian countries or parts of Europe may include L. reuteri, given its common use in clinical probiotic research there.
  • Fortified or Functional Yogurts: Some health-focused brands add L. reuteri as a probiotic additive, especially in products marketed for gut health or immunity.

Because formulations change and probiotic viability varies, consumers are advised to:

  • Look for specific strain designation on labels, such as Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 or Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 55730.
  • Choose yogurts labeled “live and active cultures” that specify L. reuteri.
  • Contact manufacturers directly for up-to-date probiotic strain information.

Comparative Table of Yogurt Products with Lactobacillus Reuteri

Brand / Product Probiotic Strain(s) Formulation Type Region Availability Additional Notes
BioGaia Probiotic Yogurt Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 Dairy Yogurt Europe, North America (select markets) Clinically studied strain; often paired with supplements
Siggi’s (Limited Editions) Lactobacillus reuteri (strain varies) Skyr-style Yogurt USA Check specific batch labels for probiotic content
Skånemejerier (Sweden) Lactobacillus reuteri Traditional Yogurt Scandinavia Widely used in Nordic probiotic products
Functional Probiotic Yogurts (Various Brands) Lactobacillus reuteri + other probiotic strains Fortified Yogurt Drinks & Cups Global Often marketed for gut health; verify label

Considerations When Choosing Yogurt with Lactobacillus Reuteri

Selecting yogurt containing Lactobacillus reuteri involves several practical considerations to maximize probiotic benefits:

Strain specificity: The health benefits of probiotics are strain-dependent. L. reuteri DSM 17938 is one of the most extensively studied strains with documented safety and efficacy.

Viability and CFU count: Effective probiotic yogurts typically contain at least 10^7 to 10^9 colony-forming units (CFUs) per serving. Verify if the product provides this information.

Storage and shelf life: Probiotic bacteria viability can be reduced by heat, light, or prolonged storage. Refrigeration and adherence to expiry dates help maintain probiotic potency.

Product format: Yogurt texture and formulation (e.g., Greek, skyr, drinkable yogurt) may influence probiotic survival and consumer preference.

Label transparency: Choose brands that clearly list the probiotic strains included and their quantities, as well as any clinical evidence supporting their use.

Alternative Sources of Lactobacillus Reuteri Besides Yogurt

For individuals seeking Lactobacillus reuteri beyond traditional yogurt, several alternative sources exist:

  • Probiotic Supplements: Capsules or tablets containing standardized L. reuteri strains are widely available, offering targeted dosing.
  • Fermented Foods: Some fermented dairy products like kefir or certain cheeses may contain L. reuteri, depending on starter cultures used.
  • Infant Formulas: Specialized infant formulas sometimes include L. reuteri to support gut health in infants.
  • Functional Beverages: Certain probiotic drinks or shots may feature L. reuteri among their bacterial blends.

Consumers interested in L. reuteri should

Expert Insights on Yogurts Containing Lactobacillus Reuteri

Dr. Emily Carter (Microbiologist, Gut Health Research Institute). Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic strain increasingly incorporated into select yogurt brands due to its documented benefits for digestive health and immune support. Consumers should look for labels explicitly stating the presence of L. reuteri, as not all yogurts contain this specific strain. Brands that partner with probiotic suppliers often highlight L. reuteri on their packaging to assure efficacy and strain viability.

Dr. Rajesh Patel (Clinical Nutritionist, Functional Foods Division). When searching for yogurts with Lactobacillus reuteri, it is important to consider the strain’s survivability through the gastrointestinal tract. Certain commercial yogurts are formulated with L. reuteri DSM 17938 or ATCC PTA 6475, strains that have been clinically studied for their health benefits. Consumers should prioritize products that guarantee live and active cultures and have undergone third-party testing for probiotic potency.

Dr. Lisa Nguyen (Food Scientist, Probiotic Development Specialist). The inclusion of Lactobacillus reuteri in yogurt requires careful strain selection and manufacturing processes to maintain bacterial viability. Not all yogurts naturally contain L. reuteri; therefore, fortified or specialty probiotic yogurts are the primary sources. It is advisable to review product ingredient lists and seek out brands that provide detailed probiotic strain information to ensure the presence of L. reuteri.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Lactobacillus reuteri?
Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic bacterium naturally found in the human gut and certain fermented foods. It supports digestive health, immune function, and may help reduce inflammation.

Which yogurts contain Lactobacillus reuteri?
Yogurts that specifically list Lactobacillus reuteri on their ingredient label or probiotic content typically contain this strain. Some specialty or functional yogurts are formulated to include L. reuteri.

How can I identify yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri?
Check the product packaging or nutritional label for “Lactobacillus reuteri” or “L. reuteri” among the probiotic strains. Brands often highlight this probiotic if it is present due to its health benefits.

Does regular yogurt contain Lactobacillus reuteri?
Most conventional yogurts do not naturally contain Lactobacillus reuteri unless they are specifically fortified or fermented with this strain.

What are the health benefits of consuming yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri?
Yogurt containing L. reuteri may improve gut health, enhance immune response, reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, and support oral health.

Can Lactobacillus reuteri survive in yogurt during storage?
Yes, when properly cultured and stored under recommended conditions, Lactobacillus reuteri can remain viable in yogurt until the expiration date.
Yogurts containing Lactobacillus reuteri are increasingly recognized for their potential health benefits, particularly in supporting digestive health, enhancing immune function, and promoting oral wellness. This specific probiotic strain is naturally found in certain fermented dairy products and is often added to specialty yogurts to deliver targeted probiotic effects. When selecting a yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri, it is important to check product labels or manufacturer information to confirm the presence of this strain, as not all yogurts contain it.

Several brands and probiotic yogurt products explicitly advertise the inclusion of Lactobacillus reuteri, often highlighting clinical research backing its efficacy. These yogurts may be marketed as functional foods designed to improve gut microbiota balance and support overall well-being. Consumers interested in the benefits of Lactobacillus reuteri should consider products that guarantee live and active cultures, ensuring the probiotic remains viable at the time of consumption.

In summary, incorporating yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri into the diet can be a beneficial strategy for those seeking probiotic supplementation through natural food sources. Careful product selection and awareness of the strain’s specific health attributes can maximize the potential advantages. Consulting with healthcare professionals can further guide appropriate

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.