Difference between Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream
Frozen yogurt is a dessert that is made from yogurt. It is a delicious alternative to regular ice cream for those who are watching their fat intake. The taste of frozen yogurt is very similar to ice cream, but is a bit tarter.
Ice cream is a dessert made from dairy products. Milk and cream are the most common ingredients and of course sugar or some type of sweetener. In the United States, ice cream is a term used specifically for this type of frozen dessert, but in other countries, such as Italy, the term is used for all types.
History of Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream
H.P. Hood created frozen yogurt in the 1970s as a healthier choice from ice cream. At first, his customers did not care for the tartness. By the 1980s, producers of frozen yogurt had hit upon a formula that appealed to a greater amount of customers and sales soared.
While cold treats using snow have been around for ages, it was not until the 10th century that the Arabs used milk and sugar to create ice cream. During the 18th century, England and America were inventing new recipes for ice cream. Brought to America by the Quakers, ice cream became a popular offering at candy shops in colonial cities.
Production of Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream
Frozen yogurt is made by combining milk solids and milk fat with yogurt culture, sugar, and corn syrup. Color and flavor can be added if desired. An ice cream maker can be used to make frozen yogurt. The yogurt sits in what is called an aging tank for about four hours before the sugars and other additives are combined.
Production methods have changed greatly for ice cream, as it was difficult to make great quantities of it before there were freezers in which to keep it. Originally made as a treat for parties and celebrations, ice cream was difficult to make. Ice had to be cut in the winter and stored until summer. The ice cream was churned by hand in bowl place inside a tub of ice and salt.
Nutritional Value of Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream
According to the USDA, one half cup of chocolate frozen yogurt contains 120 calories, 40 of which are from fat; 5 grams of total fat, 3 grams being saturated fat; 5 milligrams of cholesterol, 70 milligrams of sodium, 20 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of which are dietary fiber; and 3 grams of protein.
The same amount of chocolate ice cream contains 140 calories, 60 of which are from fat; 5 grams of total fat, all of which are saturated; 25 milligrams of cholesterol, 50 milligrams of sodium, 20 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of which is dietary fiber; and 3 grams of protein.
Similarities and Differences
- Frozen yogurt may not have been around as long as ice cream, but it sure does have a faithful following. Many frozen yogurt shops opened all over the United States through the 80s and 90s, and the popularity has continued to grow. In fact, industry experts say that frozen yogurt franchises are a fantastic opportunity.
- While frozen yogurt is wildly popular, it seems nothing will ever top the appeal of ice cream. A dessert dating back to ancient times in a wide variety of flavors and innovations such as Dippin' Dots, ice cream has long been a favorite of everyone from children to their grandparents.
