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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 Miha at 11/8/11 8:36 PM
- From Rachel at 11/3/11 4:00 PM
- I have had my kefir for about a week now. When I first got it I put it in goat's milk and changed it out daily for about 5 days. The grains doubled in size and so on the 6th day I rinsed with spring water and put them in coconut milk. I don't like the taste of goat milk and cow milk breaks me out. My question is regarding cow milk kefir and acne. If I break out from cow milk, will I also break out from cow milk kefir?
- I'm sorry, but I'm not able to answer that question for you. I recommend checking with your health care practitioner.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From shannon at 10/29/11 7:04 PM
- Is kefir fermented from bacteria and yeast or just bacteria?
Thank you - Kefir is a combination of bacteria and yeast. You can find a full listing of the strains that are involved in this article: http://www.culturesforhealth.com/milk-kefir-grains-composition-bacteria-yeast
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- Is kefir fermented from bacteria and yeast or just bacteria?
- From TS at 10/23/11 1:56 AM
- How much fresh coconut milk will the grains in the pack make?
And, does it have to be in glass jars, or could it be made in a Harsch fermentation crock? - The packages of milk kefir grains that we sell contain sufficient grains to culture about a quart of liquid after rehydration - either milk or an alternative. Glass jars are perfect for making kefir. A fermentation crock is fine, if you don't put the lid on. Kefir needs some air circulation for fermentation to work properly.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- How much fresh coconut milk will the grains in the pack make?
- From Kathleen at 10/12/11 3:26 PM
- I am in process of eating to bring healing to my gut. I follow a yeast, dairy, gluten, corn free diet. I have never made kefir before. I buy coconut milk and would like to make kefir which of your starter grains do I buy?
- There are 2 options with coconut milk kefir:
1. You could use milk kefir grains and put them directly into the coconut milk once they have been sufficiently re-hydrated in dairy milk. However, you will have to put them back into dairy milk every now and then to keep them alive and thriving.
2. You can make water kefir using the water kefir grains and then use 1/4 c. of your finished water kefir to inoculate 2.5 cups of coconut milk. This requires that you make water kefir, but you do not have to deal with dairy at all. - Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Heather at 10/8/11 10:31 PM
- Your site is great. Just wondering about the health benefit difference between milk kefir and water kefir grains (not including the base material nutrients).
Also, what would you recommend for cultured vegetables?
Thanks! - While we can't make any specific health claims or recommendations for our products, there is a huge body of research on the Internet discussing the relative merits of both types of kefir. They have similar bacteria and yeast profiles, and you can see the list of what is in each culture in these articles:
http://www.culturesforhealth.com/compare-milk-versus-kefir-water-kefir
http://www.culturesforhealth.com/milk-kefir-grains-composition-bacteria-yeast
http://www.culturesforhealth.com/water-kefir-grains-composition-bacteria-yeast
For fermenting vegetables, we recommend our Caldwell Starter Culture for Fresh Vegetables: http://www.culturesforhealth.com/caldwell-starter-culture-for-fresh-vegetables.html - Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- Your site is great. Just wondering about the health benefit difference between milk kefir and water kefir grains (not including the base material nutrients).
- From Hector at 9/23/11 6:37 AM
- Hi,
The types and quantity of bacteria, do they increase if you allow the milk kefir to brew longer than 24 hours. I am refering to the strains of bacteria?
- The number of bacteria and yeast organisms will increase as culturing continues. The types of bacteria and yeasts will remain stable.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- Hi,
- From Iryna at 9/20/11 10:43 AM
- Hi! I was wondering if I wanted to take a break from making kefir for a week or so, where do I store the kefir grains while they are resting? Do I leave them on the counter or put them in the fridge?
- To take a break from making milk kefir, simply place the kefir grains in the fresh milk, place a tight lid on the container and place it in the refrigerator. The cold will greatly retard the culturing process and they can keep this way for up to several weeks. If at the end of that period you require more time, simply repeat the process with fresh milk. If you desire a longer break period, you can also dehydrated your milk kefir grains by placing them on unbleached parchment paper in a safe location (room temperature) for several days until they are completely dry. Then place the dehydrated kefir grains in a secure container (a zip-style plastic bag, glass or plastic jar, etc.) and in a cool dry place. They should keep this way for at least 6 months.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- From Lili at 9/17/11 6:21 PM
- I am making my kefir using fat-free cow milk for over a week. It still doesn't look and taste right. It looks like soft tofu, and when I touch it with a wood spoon, it was all smashed. It is not the same as the Kefir I bought from the supermarket at all. What is wrong with that?
Thanks! - The kefir you make at home may or may not be exactly like the kefir you buy at the store. Quite a lot will depend on the type of milk you use. Commercial kefir also sometimes has additives and thickeners than can change the consistency. The length of time you culture it, and the temperature, can also affect the final result. If you would like some help troubleshooting your kefir so it is more in line with what you're expecting, please email customersupport@culturesforhealth.com so we can assist you.
- Do you find this question helpful? Yes No
- I am making my kefir using fat-free cow milk for over a week. It still doesn't look and taste right. It looks like soft tofu, and when I touch it with a wood spoon, it was all smashed. It is not the same as the Kefir I bought from the supermarket at all. What is wrong with that?
- From Erin at 9/15/11 10:53 AM
- I purchased a packet of milk kefir grains from the local co-op and noticed after I had started rehydrating the grains with raw goat milk that the allergen information on the package says that the grains were processed in a facility that handles products containing soy and wheat. I'm wondering what those products are and whether you've ever known customers to have reactions due to cross-contamination? I know that's pretty unlikely but I was just very surprised to see that and curious as I deal with substantial food allergies.
- We are required by law to make that statement on our products, since we use a commercial kitchen that may also be used to process soy and wheat products. However, our equipment is dedicated (used only for our products), and we don't produce any soy or wheat cultures ourselves. We are meticulous about cleanliness. The type of exposure to these allergens would be about the same as if you shopped in a supermarket that also sold wheat and soy products.
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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)Quality Value Price
- 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.



