Snack of the Month: Yasso Popsicles
Our June Snack of the Month is Yasso Popsicles! Let's see why this is the Dietitian's Choice.
Heat lovers, rejoice! Our long awaited California summer is almost here, bringing along heat-associated thirst and cravings. Ice cream, popsicles, soda, and other treats are coming back to welcome this warm season. As registered dietitians working in private practice, we strive to help our clients establish healthy relationships with food and help them figure out ways to stay cool during the hot summer months without working against their health goals. We always encourage sweets in moderation rather than cut out completely. However, for those who want a recommendation for an ice cream substitute, I encourage you to continue reading.
I came across this product a few years ago while shopping at my local grocery store: Yasso Greek yogurt bar. The title caught my eye because this was marketed as a popsicle but made from Greek yogurt rather than the traditional ingredients for ice cream. This sweet treat has 100 calories, 2 grams of total fat, 16 grams total carbs, 9 grams of added sugar, and 5 grams of protein. The main (nutritional) difference between a Greek yogurt bar and an ice cream bar stems from the fat and added sugar content. If you compare the nutrition facts below for this item to your typical ice cream bar at home, then the total fat and added sugar content is significantly less (not including “keto” or “low carb” ice cream which have been modified).
Nutritional Value (Mint Chocolate Chip)
4 servings per container
Serving size 1 bar (65 g)
100 kcal per serving
| | % Daily Value (DV) |
Total Fat | 2g | 3% |
Saturated Fat | 1.5g | 8% |
Trans Fat | 0g | |
Cholesterol | Less than 5 mg | 2% |
Sodium | 50mg | 2% |
Total Carbohydrate | 16g | 6% |
Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0% |
Total Sugars | 13g | |
Added Sugars | 9g | 18% |
Protein | 5g | 10% |
Ingredients: non-fat milk, Greek yogurt (non fat milk, milk protein concentrate, cultures), sugar, chocolate flavored flake (powdered sugar [sugar, corn starch], coconut oil, cocoa processed with alkali, cocoa, soy lecithin, natural flavor), milk protein concentrate, maltodextrin, cream, guar gum, locust bean gum, mint extract, spirulina extract for color, fruit juice for color, natural flavor
Allergens and warnings
Contains milk and soy. Processed in a facility that uses tree nuts, eggs, peanut, and wheat.
Where to Buy:
Target, sometimes Costco (mint flavor only), Vons, Albertsons, online
In summary:
Pros:
Made from Greek yogurt with probiotics for gut health
Less added sugar and total fat compared to traditional ice cream
1 carb count with protein for blood sugar balance
Available in variety of flavors that traditional Greek yogurt does not have
Cons:
Low-fat means it will melt easier so it may get messy if you eat too slow in the California heat
May be available at limited stores in your area
This treat may not be for everyone so I propose an alternative. How about DIY smoothie popsicles at home? Choose your favorite fruit, Greek yogurt/low-fat milk or Lactaid/plant-based milk, maybe some peanut butter/nuts/protein powder for extra protein, add some honey or monk fruit extract if you are using plain yogurt. Then, blend away! Add the concoction into popsicle molds and freeze for a few hours before serving. You will have a delicious and nutritious sweet treat in no time. Top with some crushed nuts, dip it with crushed graham crackers, or your favorite cereal for some extra crunch. You can even involve your kids in this fun project!
Hope this helps those who want to try something new this summer. Stay cool and happy eating!
Feel free to share any questions or comments with us! You can email to hazel@smarteater.net
Visit www.smarteater.net for more nutrition tips and articles!Interested in learning about weight goal and nutrition needs? Schedule a free body weight and fat% analysis with Hazel at 626-283-5128 or email to hazel@smarteater.net
