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Milk kefir grains are live active cultures consisting of yeast and bacteria existing in a symbiotic relationship. Adding the kefir grains to fresh milk yields a probiotic drink within 24 to 48 hours. This dairy kefir culture is reusable, and with care will allow you to make kefir over and over again.
- Traditional heirloom-style kefir culture (aka "grains" due to appearance); not a powdered starter culture
- Reusable culture; makes a new batch of kefir every 18-48 hours
- With proper care, the culture can be used indefinitely to create delicious probiotic-rich kefir
- Cultures on the counter at 67-80°F, no heating appliance required
- Can be used with cow milk, goat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk (see instructions)
Milk kefir grains are a starter culture that can be used with soy or coconut milk if care is taken to occasionally revitalize them in dairy milk. (Complete instructions will be included with each order.) Coconut kefir in particular is quite thick, rich, and delicious. Click here for information on making coconut kefir.
There are numerous uses for kefir including making a type of cream cheese, adding to smoothies, and drinking alone. Kefir can also be flavored after it has cultured and the kefir grains have been removed. Click here for more information on the numerous strains of bacteria and yeast generally known to comprise milk kefir grains.
Ingredients: Organic whole milk, live active cultures. Packaged with a small amount of organic powdered milk to extend shelf life. Click here to see what bacteria and yeasts are in the Milk Kefir Grains.
Milk Kefir Grains are produced in a facility that also processes soy, wheat, nut, and fish products.
Shipping Information: Our Milk Kefir Grains are shipped in a dehydrated state in a barrier-sealed packet. Upon receipt, the dairy grains can be rehydrated in fresh milk (this process usually takes 5-7 days) and then used to make kefir by adding the grains to fresh milk, stirring, covering, and leaving at room temperature until the desired consistency is reached (no more than 48 hours).
Complete instructions are included with each order. Click here to view our kefir instructions.
Questions on Milk Kefir Grains
- From Jeanne at 4/28/13 1:59 PM
- I have been making my kefir with raw goat milk and kefir starter that someone gave me. I have been using my yogurt maker because the temperature in the house is quite often below 70 degrees. It has almost always have the same wonderful thick consistency and very good. Now I just read I should not be using my yogurt maker. What was made was too thick and good to be soured milk.
Your thoughts. - Hi Jeanne
Why do you say you shouldn't be using a yogurt maker? Sure it's not the norm but does you yogurt maker stay at 68 - 85 degrees? That's a major role the yogurt maker plays, it control temperature. I've never heard of a yogurt maker going that low but
that's just me. If yours does then I'd say use it. If it doesn't then you may have been making a kefir yogurt hybrid of some sort.
Did you like your results? Were you hoping to have more sour kefir?
Best wishes
Maggie
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- I have been making my kefir with raw goat milk and kefir starter that someone gave me. I have been using my yogurt maker because the temperature in the house is quite often below 70 degrees. It has almost always have the same wonderful thick consistency and very good. Now I just read I should not be using my yogurt maker. What was made was too thick and good to be soured milk.
- From Nancy Shaeffer at 4/24/13 4:49 PM
- we would like to flavor the kefier with vanilla or chocolate or fruit how do you do that without ruining the kefir
- Here is a great article on how to flavor your milk kefir: http://www.culturesforhealth.com/second-fermentation-milk-kefir
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Logan at 3/26/13 10:00 PM
- I rehydrated my water kefir. It was doing great for a few weeks. I put the grains in a plastic mesh satchel cause I didn't have muslin. I premade the sugar water and put them in jars because someone was watching my house. They changed the water every 3 days. When I came back though my grains were kinda mushy and small. Can they be revived?
- I'm sorry to hear that happened. You may be able to revive them with the following procedure:
http://www.culturesforhealth.com/rehabilitating-fixing-repairing-damaged-water-kefir-grains
Also, the next time you go away, you might try the information here:
http://www.culturesforhealth.com/how-to-take-a-break-from-making-kefir - Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From patricia at 3/23/13 7:30 PM
- If i want to take a break from making kefir how do i go about doing that? Will i lose my kefir grains and have to order more? I work and it is not easy for me to keep making it just for myself. I don't see an answer to that on the instructions for milk kefir grains.
- For an occasional break, you can try the following: http://www.culturesforhealth.com/how-to-take-a-break-from-making-kefir
However, we recommend that you keep your kefir culturing at room temperature, as much as possible, to avoid stressing the grains. - Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Jackie at 3/19/13 3:28 PM
- How many different strands of bacteria is in your kefir grain?
- While a highly complex and variable community of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts can be found in kefir grains, this is a list of the specific set of active bacteria and yeast generally known to comprise Milk Kefir Grains:
http://www.culturesforhealth.com/milk-kefir-grains-composition-bacteria-yeast - Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Mae at 3/15/13 11:43 AM
- when you talk about using coconut milk, are we talking about the milk in the can (Thai Kitchen) or milk from the refrigerated section (Silk/So Delicious)? or does it make any difference? i tried using both types and the consistency isnt coming out as well as using regular milk
- You may use alternative milk, canned or boxed but try to find the most pure form possible, the grains aren't fond of some additives. The alternative milk will not usually coagulate and thicken like dairy milk does but it will ferment and result in a delicious cultured flavor.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From John at 3/13/13 4:53 PM
- We just got our kefir grains in the mail two days ago, and the milk has thickened after only two days. We have changed the milk once, and the thickened milk tastes sweet. Is that normal? Should I assume that it's finished rehydrating and start using it? I've always assumed that kefir should be sour.
- It sounds like your grains are progressing normally. Now that they have started to thicken the milk, it may take another batch or two to develop that wonderful tangy flavor. Be sure to begin increasing the amount of milk you're using to avoid overculturing. Curds and whey is great if you want to make kefir cheese or use the whey to culture vegetables but for drinking, that nice thickened-milk stage is best. The thickened milk stage also makes it easier to strain your grains out to start your next batch.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Marg at 3/12/13 10:20 AM
- Not certain which to purchase, Milk or Water kefir grains.
I am not diabetic, and cow’s milk causes mucus and some swell of the eyes.
Can you help me to best choose?
- If you are sensitive to milk, you should check with your Heath Care Provider or Nutritionist before making a dietary change like adding milk kefir. That being said, you might enjoy this article on the differences between water kefir and milk kefir: http://www.culturesforhealth.com/compare-milk-versus-kefir-water-kefir
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- Not certain which to purchase, Milk or Water kefir grains.
- From linda at 3/11/13 9:25 AM
- how can "fruit or other flavors" be added to the kefir
- You won't want to add anything with the milk kefir grains but you can create amazing flavors on your finished kefir during a second fermentation. You will find information here: http://www.culturesforhealth.com/second-fermentation-milk-kefir
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Kaylyn at 2/25/13 12:58 AM
- Are your kefir grains certified gluten free or just gluten free?
-I noticed on the website you state: "Milk Kefir Grains are produced in a facility that also processes soy, wheat, nut, and fish products."
-Are they processed or shared on same equipment as wheat or any way there could be cross contamination?
Thanks - Our kefir grains are not certified gluten free. They are produced in a facility that also processes soy, what, nut and fish products however, they are processed on separate equipment.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- Are your kefir grains certified gluten free or just gluten free?
Ask Your Own Question
Back to the product pageCustomer Reviews
- milk kefir grains Review by Susan
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I've been able to save money by making my own kefir with good quality grains from Culture for Health. The taste is much fresher than store bought and the instructions were easy to follow. (Posted on May 15, 2013)Price Value Quality
- Milk Kefir Grains Review by Julie
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At first I was disappointed and thought that either I was doing something wrong or my grains were just "not right." I contacted the oh-so-patient customer service reps so many times when I first started kefering that I started feeling a little on the kefir-challanged side. But, at last, with patience and good advice, I am now a kefir making mama! The grains are very forgiving and are now, about 5-6 weeks later, growing every day! I now make a quart of kefir each day and it is so very thick, just like I like it! The step I changed is actually mentioned not to be necessary, but it made all the difference in the world for me. After each batch of kefir I make, I thoroughly rinse my grains with cool water before adding the next quart of milk. Before doing this my kefir was runny and just not thick at all. Now, it's thick like a milkshake. And so good! I am very happy with the purchase and would definitely recommend CFH to everyone! I am going to be ordering more products, as the customer service is outstanding and the prices are great, also! (Posted on May 13, 2013)Price Value Quality
- Meh Review by organyc
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My milk grains have not grown at all, they are tiny. I am always worried that they are escaping through my strainer. In the beginning it takes a few tries for them to make decent kefir and it seems like they aren't as happy in soy milk? but all-in-all, the milk grains do work.. they are just miniscule and delicate. (Posted on April 16, 2013)Value Quality Price
- Wonderful kefir! Review by R. Schumaker
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We have really enjoyed our kefir from Cultures for Health! I make a batch daily and either mix it with natural fruit jam or make it into smoothies with frozen fruit. We've also used it for making salad dressing and kefir cream cheese. I have a very busy schedule but the kefir is so easy to keep up with and I have found it much more convenient than making yogurt. (Posted on March 23, 2013)Price Value Quality
- WOW Review by Mae
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i received my started kit on Saturday and by Monday afternoon i was having Kefir. Im having a blast with them and just ordered some water kefir cultures. I need to thank my neighbor that got me started on this. This is so much better than buying kefir from the store (Posted on March 15, 2013)Price Value Quality
- excellent Review by Diane
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The kefir grains arrived quickly after I placed the order for them. i was fully expecting it to take more than five days to rehydrate, but, by day three I had kefir :)Price Value Quality
I do keep a thermometer in the kitchen, and after moving the jar a couple of times, found a spot that stays at 72°consistently. At first I placed the jar on a warming mat I keep on the counter for soaking/sprouting buckwheat groats, but was worried it might be too warm,I kept checking with a candy thermometer and it was right at 85° when set on the mat.
The grains were activated in reconstituted powdered goats milk, (also checked with a candy thermometer after mixing with warm water) and I think maybe the fact that the milk was warmer than refrigerated when grains first went in, contributed to the speed that they began to begin working.
I've since switched to raw goats milk, poured straight from the refrigerator, as using warmer milk was making kefir in about 17 hours, which was not all that convenient. (Posted on March 13, 2013)
- Nice product. Review by lux
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I am really happy with my kefir grains. Not only did they arrive quickly, but they started making kefir super quickly. I was expecting to have to wait a while, as they were dehydrated, and most everything I have read while researching kefir said that it would take 4-5 days (if not longer) to begin. On the 2nd full 24 hours, my milk started becoming kefir. On the 3rd full day, it was sour, thick, creamy and absolutely delicious. I'm really satisfied with these grains! Thank you. (Posted on March 7, 2013)Quality Price Value
- Pleasantly surprised Review by Laura
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I had been following the instructions to rehydrate my culture, but after a few days, I wasn't sure if it was working or not. The milk didn't seem to have changed at all. Despite my uncertainty, I kept changing the milk as instructed. Lo and behold, I checked it one day and found kefir! It's been working perfectly ever since! I had some kefir in my smoothie, and it was delicious! (Posted on March 1, 2013)Price Value Quality
- Love my kefir Review by Ryan
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I love how simple it was to rehydrate my grains, and get them going. I now use them daily, and I have friends that want some of my extra grains. The videos on the website were extremely helpful and well detailed. (Posted on January 16, 2013)Value Quality Price
- Durable and resilient Review by Sara
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I live in North Africa and I had a friend bring me a pack of Milk Kefir Grains. I wasn't sure if they would hold up between the amount to time from their original shipment to my friend or the variable temperatures the grains experienced while traveling to me, but they did great! I've been able to rehydrate them with total success. Now I am just waiting for them to multiply so I can share them! I am so thrilled to finally have kefir. (Posted on January 13, 2013)Quality Price Value
- Very good~ Review by Amy
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I had never tried kefir before getting these, but I've become addicted to the idea and the tartness. I've been alternating between whole cow's milk and almond milk. My tiny two grains haven't grown much in the month that I've had them, but they did survive a week of sitting in the frig in milk while we were away for Christmas. At this point I think I'm going to stop using them with the almond milk to see if that helps them beef up a little. I've also gotten help from the LiveChat that makes me feel there's always someone to ask a question of. It's a great benefit! I drink mine plain a couple of times a day. (Posted on January 10, 2013)Quality Price Value
- Drink kefir! Review by Eloise
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I've been lactose sensitive since a child. We drank milk three meals a day every day and my stomach hurt all the time. My parents took me to the doctor and they said it was all in my head. I gave up drinking milk in college and now at 50+ found kefir. I have a large glass every morning. My stomach doesn't hurt. My nails and hair are stronger and look better. I feel myself getting healthier and healthier by the day. This product was easy to purchase, quick to arrive and had clear directions. I wasn't pleased with the first few batches. I thought they tasted off, but as it's aged, it has improved and now I love it. (Posted on January 10, 2013)Price Value Quality
- Very pleased! Review by Healthy gut
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I was a little skeptical of this whole kefir business, but in an attempt to create a healthier gut due to some health problems, I gave it a try. This product works exactly like it says it will. I followed the directions and within a couple of weeks, my grains were growing well. I hae been able to pass along grains to others due to growth. I drink my kefir unflavored (which is an acquired taste) and add it to smoothies for the kids. I have been making kefir from this starter for almost a year now! I would definitely recommend this product. (Posted on December 15, 2012)Price Value Quality
- Love Kefir Review by JoyK
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I have had my Kefir grains for several months and I absolutely love them. I use whole organic milk from my local grocery store and have not had one problem. I use a clean quart jar every day with a coffee filter and rubber band. Cheap! When I am tired or have too much stored, I simply place in the fridge for a few days with a cup of milk. This really requires minimal maintenance making it easier than I every imagined. My husband had been drinking Kefir from the store for years and he is very pleased that I am making it at home now. Go ahead and buy the kit because the strainer is a must-have for optimal results. I immediately wash my strainer after each use or it is almost impossible to clean after lying in the sink. (Posted on May 16, 2012)Price Value Quality
- Great Product Review by Laurie
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The grains are alive and well. My only disappointment was that it could only make a small amount of kefir. [Note from CFH: The milk kefir grains can be re-used indefinitely to make large quantities of milk kefir, but it may take some time for the grains to multiply sufficiently to make more than a quart at one time.] (Posted on May 9, 2012)Quality Price Value
- I simply LOVE this product! Review by Rebecca
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Yes, if you want a reliable kefir product, this is definitely the one to order. We ordered ours in March of this year and have had an unending supply of high quality kefir ever since, and we are now going on eight weeks of culturing it again and again. It has been worth every penny we spent on it. (Posted on May 8, 2012)Quality Price Value
- Perfect grains Review by sasha
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Today is 3rd day since we got grains in the mail and we already have great tasting kefir. This worked much faster than what instructions suggested. Note to shoppers: do buy that plastic strainer, we had to go though 4 stores by the time we found one.Value Quality Price
(Posted on May 7, 2012)
- Making my own kefir Review by Marc
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I ordered my grains a 4 weeks ago. I keep my house cool (63F), but that did not stop these grains from making some delicious kefir. It took about a week to get them up and going, but I cannot believe how much the grains have grown. Sure beats the store-bought stuff. (Posted on March 12, 2012)Price Value Quality
- Perfect quality!! Review by Tammie
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I will admit...I was a bit scared away for a minute due to the higher price compared to those that I saw on amazon.com. But as we know, higher priced often means better quality. I purchased the kefir grains and within 4 days I recieved my product. The first 24 hours I had healthy and beautiful grains and was quite pleased!! (Posted on February 23, 2012)Quality Price Value
- great product Review by rrteacherbear
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great product, we bought them and had kefir within 24 hours. we have been mixing with organic jam and using a stick blender to mix. we have our first batch of kefir cream cheese in the fridge now. (Posted on February 20, 2012)Price Value Quality
Attention!
Starter cultures, rennet for cheese making and cultured vegetables, juices and condiments are sensitive to excessive heat. Once your order has shipped, an e-mail with tracking information will be sent to you. We encourage you to use the tracking information to anticipate the arrival of your items so they can be removed from the mail box and stored in the refrigerator promptly.



