Raw, Unpasteurised Cow Milk Kefir. Traditionally KhoiSan crafted.
Studies show raw milk kefir has specific beneficial bacteria and yeast that aren't in pasteurized milk kefir.
Kefir is a highly probiotic drink much more beneficial than yoghurt, Like yogurt, kefir has a slightly sour flavor and is created through fermentation. They’re both good options if you're lactose intolerant, since you can digest them easily.
What Is Kefir?
Kefir, pronounced kee-feer, is a drink made from the fermented milk from a cow, goat, or sheep. Water kefir is similar but has a water base instead of milk.
Historians believe kefir originated centuries ago in the Caucasus Mountains in Eastern Europe near present-day Turkey. The word kefir is derived from the Turkish word “keif,” which translates to “good feeling.”
Kefir contains around 60 unique species of probiotics, “good bacteria” that improve gut health and may aid in your digestive processes. The most common are lactobacillus, lactococcus, streptococcus, and leuconostoc.
Is milk kefir lactose free?
Kefir is low in lactose, the sugar in milk. That means that you can probably drink it even if you're lactose intolerant. In fact, research shows that drinking kefir may actually help improve lactose digestion and intolerance.
There are dairy-free versions of kefir you can buy known as Water Kefir, available on our website.
Kefir vs. Yogurt
There's no such thing as kefir yogurt, but kefir is often compared to yogurt, and in some ways, the two products are similar.
Like yogurt, kefir has a slightly sour flavor and is created through fermentation. They’re both good options if you're lactose intolerant, since you can digest them easily.
Kefir and yogurt contain different types of good bacteria. Kefir’s main beneficial bacteria is Lactobacillus kefiri, while yogurt's are mainly Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. Yogurt also has only bacteria, while kefir has bacteria and yeast.
Kefir's consistency is thinner than yogurt and yogurt drinks, and kefir also tends to have fewer calories and sugar than yogurt.
The two do have one thing in common: Both make great bases for smoothies or to mix with cereal or fruit. Just stick to plain, as it's lower in calories and sugar than flavored.