Dairy & eggs

Yogurt, Greek, plain, nonfat

FDC 170894container (170 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 70 · +35 vs Dairy & eggs median

Plain nonfat Greek yogurt scores 70 of 100, a Good band result and the second-highest rank in the entire Dairy & eggs category at 2 of 60. Its defining feature is protein, at 20% DV, unusually concentrated for a dairy product with almost no fat.

A typical container holds 170 g and works well plain, topped with fruit, or stirred into savory sauces in place of sour cream. At only 59 calories per 100 g and 3.24 g of naturally occurring sugar, it is a light option, though beyond protein it doesn't carry any other standout nutrient in this data.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around yogurt, greek, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 10.2 g · 69%Carb 3.6 g · 25%Fat 0.4 g · 6%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories59 kcal3%
Total fat0.39 g1%
Saturated fat0.12 g1%
Cholesterol5 mg2%
Sodium36 mg2%
Carbohydrate3.6 g1%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars3.2 g
Protein10 g20%
Potassium141 mg3%
Calcium110 mg8%
Iron0.07 mg0%
Magnesium11 mg3%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A1 µg0%
Vitamin E0.01 mg0%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 170894

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein20% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the dairy & eggs median

Nutrient density70 vs 35 median
Protein / 100 g10 vs 9 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g36 vs 162 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Nutritional supplement for people with diabetes, liquidDensity 90 vs 70

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Plain nonfat Greek yogurt is strained to remove much of the whey, giving it a thicker, denser texture than regular yogurt along with a tangier flavor. That thickness makes it useful well beyond breakfast bowls, working as a base for dips and dressings, a substitute for sour cream in cooking, a marinade for chicken in dishes like tikka-style preparations, or a binder in baking in place of some butter or oil. Its tang also pairs naturally with both sweet additions like honey and berries and savory ones like cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Keep it refrigerated and check that any liquid on top, which is just residual whey, is stirred back in rather than poured off, since it carries flavor and some nutrients. A single container at 170 g has only 59 calories and 3.24 grams of sugar, while still providing 10.2 grams of protein, reaching about 20 percent of the daily value for protein in that serving. With sodium at a modest 36 milligrams, it is a low-calorie way to add substantial protein to breakfast or a snack without much added sugar.

Frequently asked questions about yogurt, greek

How many calories are in a container of nonfat Greek yogurt?

A 170 g container has 59 calories, which is notably low given it also delivers 10.2 grams of protein.

Is Greek yogurt a good source of protein?

Yes, a single container provides about 20 percent of the daily value for protein while staying low in calories and sugar.

How do you use plain Greek yogurt in cooking?

It works as a substitute for sour cream, a base for dips and dressings, or a marinade for meats thanks to its thick, tangy texture.

View the USDA source record