The Truth About Yogurt Alternatives with Erin Asaad

We’re taking a closer look at dairy-free yogurt alternatives that are hiding a pretty big secret. What’s really in your yogurt?
Erin Asaad, Founder and CEO of Culina Yogurt, drops some bombshells about the norms of mass-produced yogurt alternatives. She explains the essence of Culina's yogurt, highlighting its coconut-rich formula in contrast to common watered-down alternatives. Erin's insights go beyond the kitchen, shedding light on the misleading charm of natural flavors found in many mainstream products. Through Culina, she encourages a dairy-free movement, inviting consumers to enjoy a genuine and uncompromised yogurt experience.
In this episode, Erin talks to Jen about her inspiration to create dairy-free yogurt at Culina, the truth about conventional alternatives, and the secrets behind some of Culina’s ingredients.

Key Takeaways

[02:00] - What inspired Erin to make Culina Yogurt?

[09:19] - What makes Culina Yogurt different?

[13:36] - Erin explains why she uses maple syrup as a sweetener.

[19:45] - What is Agar, and why does Erin use it in yogurt?

[23:02] - How Erin makes coconut taste similar to a dairy-based product.

[29:21] - Erin explains how bands keep dairy-free foods cheap.


Quotes
[07:54] - “It’s so depressing to remove things and not to know what to fill your diet with.” ~ Erin Asaad 
[11:04] - “I think the thing that we’ve done really well is we’ve learned how to culture a non-dairy base in the best way.” ~ Erin Asaad
[12:30] - “The way I create products is that I’m taste, texture, and flavor first.” ~ Erin Asaad

Links 

Erin Asaad Instagram

Erin Asaad LinkedIn

Culina Yogurt

Culina Yogurt Instagram

Whole Foods Market

Walmart

Natural Grocers

Sprouts

Silk

U.S. Food and Drug Administration


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