
AI-generated illustration
Frozen yogurt, often called 'froyo,' is a creamy, tangy dessert made by fermenting milk with yogurt cultures before freezing. It typically includes milk, sugar, and live active cultures, and is often topped with fruits, nuts, or syrups. While its origins trace back to ancient dairy traditions, the modern commercial version gained popularity in the United States in the 1970s and 80s.
Frozen yogurt is generally moderate in carbohydrates from added sugars, with a small amount of protein and fat from the dairy base. A standard half-cup serving usually contains around 100-150 calories and can provide calcium, probiotics, and sometimes vitamin D, depending on the formulation.
Culturally, frozen yogurt experienced a massive boom in the 1980s as a 'healthier' ice cream alternative, and its self-serve topping bar model became a social phenomenon. Nutritionally, it's unique for potentially offering live probiotic cultures, which may support gut health, though the benefits can vary by brand and processing.