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bucolic_frolic

(56,384 posts)
Wed Apr 1, 2026, 05:39 PM Apr 2026

if enzymes clear our drains, and lactobacillus is one of them, why aren't we putting yogurt down our drains?

if enzymes clear our drains, and lactobacillus is one of them, why aren't we putting yogurt down our drains?

Gemini: "While enzymes and bacteria can help maintain drains, yogurt should not be poured down the drain because its high fat, protein, and sugar content can clog pipes, solidify in cold water, and cause sewage issues. While probiotic cleaners use similar beneficial bacteria, yogurt is too thick, and its components can actually damage or clog plumbing systems.
Why Yogurt is Bad for Drains:

Solidification: Dairy fats can clog pipes, leading to slow drainage or even floods.
Nutrient Source for Bad Bacteria: The proteins and fats in yogurt can provide food for harmful bacteria, causing unwanted odor and buildup.
Ineffective Concentration: Yogurt is far too thick to be effective and will create a mess rather than breaking down organic matter."

So I'm asking all here at DU, how many floods have you caused with yogurt poured down the drain? If yogurt damages plumbing systems, we're eating this stuff?

We need a forum for the world's greatest questions.

4 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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if enzymes clear our drains, and lactobacillus is one of them, why aren't we putting yogurt down our drains? (Original Post) bucolic_frolic Apr 2026 OP
Ever noticed what yogurt becomes if you leave a container out for considerable days? hlthe2b Apr 2026 #1
I put yogurt down my drains. Never had a problem biophile Apr 2026 #2
Especially for those high-fat nonfat yogurts. BadgerKid Apr 2026 #3
I would do that Marthe48 Apr 10 #4

hlthe2b

(115,270 posts)
1. Ever noticed what yogurt becomes if you leave a container out for considerable days?
Wed Apr 1, 2026, 05:45 PM
Apr 2026

That continued fermentation process gives way to a watery whey, which though loaded with probiotics is not going to clog a drain. Silly, silly, silly.

biophile

(1,704 posts)
2. I put yogurt down my drains. Never had a problem
Wed Apr 1, 2026, 05:50 PM
Apr 2026

I have a sand mound septic system. Also use Rid-X which has other kinds of bacteria to break down biological material.

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