The History of Milk Kefir

Where do Kefir grains come from?

The history of milk kefir was initially part of a legend and a bit mysterious too. People living on the northern slopes of the Caucasian Mountains believe that Muhammad, the Great Prophet gave kefir grains to the Orthodox people and showed them how to make kefir. They guarded the grains and the knowledge given to them by the Prophet for fear of losing their strength. The kefir grains became the families and the tribe’s wealth, and the uses and techniques of preparation were known to future generations only.

Milk kefir grains

Milk kefir grains

What is Milk Kefir?

Kefir is a milk product made from the milk of goats, cows, and sheep also. There were sacks made of animal skin in which kefir was made. The bags were kept so that they encountered direct sunlight, which helped in the fermenting process of the milk. In the evening, the sacks were carried back home and hung behind the doors so that people passing the door would prod them with their hands or feet so that the content mixes well. More fresh milk was added after the kefir was taken out, so the fermentation process did not stop. These people enjoyed this whole food for many years. They believed that the beverage prepared with it had magical properties.

How did Kefir become well-known all over the world?

However, around the 19th century, Russian doctors believed that kefir had excellent healing properties, like treating tuberculosis and other intestinal disorders, and published the first scientific research studies. To produce kefir grains, the source of the grains was required urgently to use this unique food for treating ailing patients. The Blandov brothers owned a Dairy in Moscow and properties in the Mountains of the Caucasus area. They were asked to gather the grains of kefir to be manufactured on a large scale in Moscow. Although it was not a straightforward process, finally, the grains were brought to Russia by princess Irina and the first bottles of kefir drink were on sale in Moscow in 1908. They were consumed especially for medicinal value. In the 1930s, commercial production began in copious quantities.

Since the original method was not appropriate for large-scale manufacturing, scientific methods were used to obtain this healthy food. In the 1950s, VNIMI invented more straightforward ways, including fermentation, agitation, coagulation, ripening, and cooling in massive vessels. The Soviet Food Minister thanked Irina for bringing these valuable grains to Russia. Today, kefir is the most popularly used fermented milk in Russia. In modern times, kefir is manufactured commercially in Finland, Norway, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Russia, and other places like the USA, West Germany, Canada, and Denmark.

What kefir grains look like and their health benefits

Kefir grains look like small-size cauliflower, like wheat kernels. They are processed in such a way in leather sacks that they naturally ferment. These grains contain innumerable gelatinous micro-organisms and casein that are symbiotically grown together. Yeast is also present in the grains. These microorganisms are beneficial for health and make kefir so different from other milk products cultured in diverse ways. This self-carbonated beverage has probiotic properties and medicinal benefits, for which the effervescent drink is so popular worldwide. It contains high calcium, magnesium, vitamin B12, K2, enzymes, folate and biotin, and other unique nutrients that boost immunity, increase bone density, fight allergies, support detoxification, and improve lactose digestion.

Milk kefir grains are named differently in various places, like Kefir Yogurt, Snow Lotus, Kewra, The Grains of The Prophet Mohammad, Tibetan Mushroom, and Yogurt Plant name a few. It is a fantastic drink that is enjoyed by all.

Milk kefir grains floating in raw milk

Milk kefir grains floating in raw milk

Where can you buy kefir grains?

Getting fresh kefir grains from a friend who is currently producing kefir at home is often the simplest method to obtain them. They can also be ordered online, but they must be transported quickly and placed directly in fresh milk upon delivery, or else they will become disturbed and perish owing to a lack of food.

Buy Milk Kefir Starter Kit

Buy Milk Kefir Starter Kit

Buy Milk Kefir Starter Kit

 

Buy a Milk Kefir Starter Kit

The Milk Kefir Starter Kit Includes the following:

  • You will receive one generous tablespoon of live, organic, nutritious milk kefir grains that will initially generate at least one to two cups of kefir per day and more as the grains multiply.
  • Four resilient, culture-safe plastic strainers. Holds and strains a quart or more with ease. Made of plastic and fine nylon mesh, this milk and water kefir strainer is easy and culture friendly. Safe for dishwasher use.
  • One Adhesive Jar Thermometer for monitoring the brewing temperature of the kefir. No longer will you have to worry about contaminating your probe kitchen thermometers or performing several checks.
  • Detailed step-by-step instructional PICTURE guide: all you need to know about caring for your kefir grains and preparing delicious kefir. Included are various flavorings, smoothies, Italian sodas, and handmade cream cheese recipes. Instructions are supplied with shipment notification so that you have time to prepare the necessary components and supplies! A Step-by-Step Milk Kefir Guide.

This quantity of kefir grains will make 1-2 cups of excellent kefir daily and much more as the kefir grains multiply.

Notes: Upon arrival, the milk kefir may emit a solid yeasty and/or sour odor when the bag is opened; this is due to the natural gas produced by the grains and is normal.

Shipping: Shipping starts at €6.99. We offer expedited shipping options.

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