Ingredient

Living Yogurt Cultures

Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
These cultures are added to dairy products to initiate fermentation and develop characteristic flavors …

What is Living Yogurt Cultures?

Living yogurt cultures are live bacteria, most commonly strains of Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. These bacteria ferment lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid, which gives yogurt its tangy flavor and thick texture. They are essential for the yogurt-making process.

Is Living Yogurt Cultures vegan?

No. Living Yogurt Cultures is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.

Is Living Yogurt Cultures a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Living Yogurt Cultures used for?

These cultures are added to dairy products to initiate fermentation and develop characteristic flavors and textures.

Is Living Yogurt Cultures safe?

Living yogurt cultures are considered safe and are a key component of yogurt's nutritional profile.

Why it's used

These cultures are added to dairy products to initiate fermentation and develop characteristic flavors and textures. They are primarily found in yogurt, but also in some ice creams, cheeses, and other fermented dairy products where a tangy taste and creamy consistency are desired.

Health notes

Living yogurt cultures are considered safe and are a key component of yogurt's nutritional profile. The FDA recognizes them as generally recognized as safe (GRAS). These live microorganisms are often referred to as probiotics, which some research suggests may support gut health. However, the specific health benefits can vary depending on the strains present and the amount consumed. JECFA has evaluated them and set an acceptable daily intake.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. However, yogurt cultures are typically grown in milk, so trace amounts of milk protein may be present.

Foods that contain Living Yogurt Cultures

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.