USDA Updates Yogurt Standards

On November 20, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) revised the USDA Commodity Requirements Yogurt Products for Use in Domestic Programs, effective as of the date of publication. The changes include sugars content, labeling, packaging and certification requirements.

Changes:

• Yogurt sold before June 30, 2025, must not exceed 23 grams of total sugars per 6 oz. Products sold on/after July 1, 2025, must not exceed 12 grams of added sugars per 6 oz. 

• Yogurt must comply with the labeling requirements for high-protein and non-fat products in the Code of Federal Regulations.  

• In addition to black and white, the label must include at least two other colors; it must also incorporate a graphic (photo or illustration) describing the product content or have a window that clearly shows the contents.

• The contractor must conduct product testing and quality analysis to ensure the product meets relevant specifications, with results documented in a Certificate of Analysis (COA). All COAs must be kept by the contractor for at least seven years from the issuance date, as required by the USDA.