How can I tell if my kefir is healthy?

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I have been given some kefir grains but, no having tasted kefir before, I can't tell if there's something wrong with it.

Is there some way to tell?

For the record, the taste is like a mix between yoghourt, cheese and sour milk.



Best Answer

If the taste is similar to yogurt, cheese, or sour milk as you describe then your kefir is likely good.

On the other hand, if it seems moldy or rancid, it is bad.

This site describes proper storage, shelf life and how to tell if it is bad.

And this site describes kefir gone bad if "f there is noticeable fuzzy mold growing on it, if there are pink or orange spots on it, or if it has turned pink or orange. Your body knows when it is bad, it should literally be revolting to you if you attempt to ingest it."




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Quick Answer about "How can I tell if my kefir is healthy?"

As a general rule, if the water kefir grains are capable of turning sweet water into slightly tangy and fizzy kefir within 48 hours, they are fine. Active and regular fermentation is the main sign that the microorganisms in the kefir are healthy.

How do you know if kefir is good?

To tell if your kefir is bad, look for the following signs of spoilage:
  • Mold or any other fuzzy growth on the surface.
  • Changed color.
  • Off or really sour vinegar-like smell.
  • Heavy separation, like a layer of liquid on top.
  • The product becoming chunky and difficult to pour.


  • What does healthy kefir look like?

    Milk kefir can look like a thin yogurt when it has just finished culturing. At this point it is pretty simple to pour it through a strainer and remove the kefir grains.

    What should the consistency of kefir be?

    What should the consistency of Kefir be? A consistency similar to buttermilk is standard, with it getting thicker in the winter, after being refrigerated, or when more cream (or higher fat milk) is added. It is not solid like yogurt.



    How Can I Tell if my Kefir is Overfermented?




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