What is Kefir?

Published on Dec 24, 2024

What Is Kefir?

Kefir is a cultured milk drink.

Whether it’s made using cow milk or plant-based alternatives, Kefir is packed with billions of live cultures that can improve your gut health. It’s also a delicious source of protein. Our Biotiful Kefir is made with British cow milk with no added sugar.

Originating from the Caucasus mountains, Kefir has been a trusted dietary staple for over 2,000 years. The word literally means ‘feel good’, and with over 40 strains of live cultures in our Biotiful Kefir we understand why. Discover more about how Kefir can benefit your gut health.

What Is Kefir Good For?

So, what is Kefir good for? Kefir is a naturally fermented & one of the best foods for gut health and your microbiota found in your gut. Made with live cultures, and it’s believed these fermented foods can provide a dose of live microorganisms to support a healthy digestion, improve immunity, support weight management, reduce bloating, improve your mood and so much more. Other examples of fermented foods include kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut.

When it comes to the question of “what is Kefir good for”, digestive function is just one of the benefits associated with a healthy gut. Learn more about the benefits of Kefir in our news hub.

What Is Kefir Made From?

Kefir is made from Kefir grains and milk. The grains are a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast which are put into milk (this can be a form of dairy milk or a dairy-free milk alternative). They ferment the milk and create nutrient rich compounds, resulting in Kefir that is packed full of probiotics that can transform your gut health.

How Is Kefir Made?

Kefir is made with an ancient fermentation method which is amazing yet simple.

It starts with Kefir grains, which are essentially a cluster of beneficial bacteria. These live cultures are added to fresh warm milk, kick-starting the fermentation. Inside of a tight container away from light, the lactose in the milk nourishes the grains, allowing them to grow and reproduce, whilst starving the grains of oxygen.

Once the Kefir is fermented, the remaining Kefir grains are strained before bottling, leaving you with a smooth, delicious cultured drink. Learn how to make your own Kefir.

What Is The Difference Between Yogurt And Kefir?

We’re often asked “what is the difference between yogurt and Kefir”: it’s similar in terms of taste, though it’s generally thinner in consistency. It also often has more, and a wider variety of good bacteria and contains yeast while yogurts generally contain only a few bacterial strains.

We love Kefir for breakfast or as a snack, we’ve got plenty of Kefir recipes for you to take inspiration from. It’s great in smoothies or poured over cereal.

What Is Kefir Milk vs What Is Kefir Yogurt?

Kefir milk is a drinkable form of Kefir, as opposed to Kefir yogurt which is thicker and better eaten with a spoon or used in cooking. They are both fermented in the same way, however the fermentation process for Kefir yogurt is slightly longer. This gives the bacteria time to produce more acids, and therefore, the milk becomes thicker.

Many people enjoy the benefits of Kefir milk as it’s so easy to add a glass a day into your routine and to see real benefits in terms of your gut health. Others prefer the thicker texture in their morning granola bowl or adding a scoop into any recipe where you’d usually use yogurt.