Labneh: A Mediterranean Marvel Takes Center Stage in the U.S. Dairy Scene
Source: The DairyNews
Labneh, an ancient Middle Eastern dairy delicacy, is carving a niche for itself in the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. dairy offerings. Whether referred to as concentrated yogurt or yogurt cheese, this thick, creamy spread is gaining popularity for its unique taste, versatility, and impressive nutritional profile.
Produced by adding salt to a yogurt base and straining off the liquid whey, labneh boasts a consistency akin to cream cheese but with higher acidity and a tangy flavor. Nutritionally, it stands out for being low in fat and carbohydrates, rich in protein, and loaded with gut-friendly probiotics. Notably, labneh is a dairy delight with low lactose levels, catering to those with lactose intolerance.
Labneh's versatility is a significant draw. It can be used interchangeably with cream cheese and sour cream, making it a healthier alternative for dips, including a lower-fat option compared to the popular Mediterranean choice, hummus. Yaza Foods, a company leading the charge, launched its labneh line on the U.S. East Coast in August 2023. With ambitious expansion plans, the brand aims to be in all major U.S. cities within six months and become the nationwide go-to labneh brand within five years.
Yaza Foods takes pride in producing clean, traditional labneh with just two ingredients – pasteurized, cultured milk, and salt – and no added thickeners or preservatives. Manufactured in New York's Catskill Mountains using locally sourced milk, Yaza labneh comes in three flavors: plain, Za'atar & Olive Oil, and Spicy Chili.
Joining Yaza in the U.S. market are other labneh brands such as Cedar’s, Karoun, Pinar, and Byblos. These manufacturers aim to tap into the increasing demand for novel, nutrient-dense, and ethnically diverse eating experiences. The market for dips and spreads witnessed a notable 12% surge from 2019 to 2020, with projections indicating continued growth at approximately 5% per year through 2029. As labneh continues to make its mark, its unique combination of flavor and nutrition positions it as an exciting addition to the American dairy palate.
Labneh's versatility is a significant draw. It can be used interchangeably with cream cheese and sour cream, making it a healthier alternative for dips, including a lower-fat option compared to the popular Mediterranean choice, hummus. Yaza Foods, a company leading the charge, launched its labneh line on the U.S. East Coast in August 2023. With ambitious expansion plans, the brand aims to be in all major U.S. cities within six months and become the nationwide go-to labneh brand within five years.
Yaza Foods takes pride in producing clean, traditional labneh with just two ingredients – pasteurized, cultured milk, and salt – and no added thickeners or preservatives. Manufactured in New York's Catskill Mountains using locally sourced milk, Yaza labneh comes in three flavors: plain, Za'atar & Olive Oil, and Spicy Chili.
Joining Yaza in the U.S. market are other labneh brands such as Cedar’s, Karoun, Pinar, and Byblos. These manufacturers aim to tap into the increasing demand for novel, nutrient-dense, and ethnically diverse eating experiences. The market for dips and spreads witnessed a notable 12% surge from 2019 to 2020, with projections indicating continued growth at approximately 5% per year through 2029. As labneh continues to make its mark, its unique combination of flavor and nutrition positions it as an exciting addition to the American dairy palate.
