Organic yogurts put to the test: are they really healthy and sustainable?

Organic yogurts put to the test: are they really healthy and sustainable?

An alarming test has shown that organic natural yogurt is not the same as animal welfare! In a comprehensive study, 20 different organic natural yogurts with a fat content of at least 3.5 percent were put through their paces. The prices for the tested products were between 1.15 and 1.89 euros for 500 grams. But what is really behind these supposedly healthy treats?

The laboratory analyzes did not reveal any residues of concern, but the questions about animal husbandry cast a worrying light on the industry. The auditors demanded comprehensive information from dairies and farmers: How do the cows that provide the milk for our yoghurt live? How often are they allowed to go out to pasture? And what do they really eat? The answers were often inadequate and many companies seemed unwilling to provide clear information. The test results on animal husbandry and transparency show that many products were not convincing in this regard.

The shocking results

The evaluation of animal husbandry was based on a points system set by ÖKO-TEST. Products that could not provide sufficient evidence of animal husbandry were drastically devalued. Another drawback: The packaging was tested for chlorinated compounds and the results were sobering. Disposable packaging and questionable statements on labels, such as “Fair prices for our dairy farmers”, were also critically examined. If the milk price paid is lower than the average organic milk price, that is another cause for concern!

The test results clearly show that just because a product is labeled “organic” does not automatically mean that the animals are kept in a species-appropriate manner. Consumers should be aware that behind the beautiful packaging there is often insufficient information about the actual storage conditions. The results of this test are a wake-up call for everyone who values ​​sustainable and ethical food!