What authentic Kefir is

Authentic Kefir is a probiotic drink prepared by culturing the Kefir grains (a yeast/bacterial fermentation starter) with fresh cow, goat, or sheep’s milk. Kefir grains are live active cultures consisting of a complex mixture of specific lactic acid bacteria (lactobacillus) and beneficial yeasts existing in a symbiotic relationship.

The origin of Kefir grains themselves is unknown. To date, it has not been possible to simulate the spontaneous formation of kefir grains using single isolates of kefir flora. New kefir grains can only be obtained from propagating and dividing of already existing kefir grains.

Kefir grains are composed of denatured protein and polysaccharides in which specific kefir organisms are embedded.

Authentic Kefir has its own unique features because in addition to lactic fermentation, it also undergoes alcoholic fermentation caused by the presence of yeast, which yields a tart, sparkling and refreshing taste.

Authentic Kefir has a greater and more diverse range of microorganism in its starter than yogurt.

Authentic Kefir does NOT contain milk powder or milk ingredient instead of fresh milk, any preservatives, starch, emulsifiers, dyes, thickeners or genetically-modified elements or vegetable ingredients.

Authentic Kefir can be produced with different levels of milk fat (%M.F.).

Authentic Kefir is also lower in lactose, since the bacteria consume most of it.

How to determine authentic Kefir

The simplest and most effective way to determine the authentic Kefir among the products labelled as a Kefir is to read the ingredient list on the label.

!!! Authentic Kefir should consist of fresh milk (that can not be replaced by non dairy products), Kefir grains and Kefir yeasts and if it lacks any of these elements, it is not authentic Kefir.

Please visit www.kefirrecipes.net to find interesting recipes with kefir.