If I said to you, "Joe, (if that's your name, if not, pretend I said your name) I think we should differentiate your brand by using your very own strain of bacteria". You would think I was off my rocker wouldn't you. "Bacteria? Like Semolina?" Well, not really, something smoother sounding. Some bacteria that sounded almost, cool. And it's a special bacteria, because it would be your bacteria. And consumers would be clamoring to buy your product so they can have your bacteria ingested into their bodies. Sound's pretty crazy doesn't it? Well, welcome to the world of yogurt.

Next time you are in the yogurt isle of your grocer, check out some of the brands of yogurt and the special bacteria that they  promote as being it's "unique" type of "culture". Oh, yea, they likely wont call it bacteria, they cleverly disguise the fact that it's bacteria by calling it a "prebiotic culture" or "probiotic culture". But it's all bacteria. You also wont hear them advertise it as their own unique "strain". That wont sell yogurt very well.

But thats it, some yogurts differentiate themselves from one brand to the next with strains of bacteria. Promoting the benefits that each one's special bacteria has on your well-being. There are other differentiators, some are for kids, some are for seniors, some are for women, some are for teens. In a world where you and all of your competitors have virtually the same product and flavours, it comes down to how you are going to position your brand.

Let's take a look at some of the brands and the special strains of "culture" that each one markets.

Brand: Dannon Activa
Bacteria: The unique probiotic culture bifidus regularis
Claim: Clinically proven to help naturally regulate your digestive system.

Brand: Dannon Danimals® Smoothie
Bacteria: Natural probiotic LGG®
Claim: Proven benefits for positively affecting children’s gastrointestinal function, immune function, and oral health.

Brand: Yoplait Yoptimal
Bacteria: BB-12® Bifidobacterium lactis and LA-5® Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic cultures
Claim: Contributes to healthy digestive tract flora

Interesting isn't it? What yogurt brand do you buy and why? Let me know, use the form below.

Thanks.

Rob