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Cultures for Health Kefir Starter Culture | 4 Packets Freeze Dried Starter Powder | Make Kefir with Milk, Water, or Juice | Re-Culture Kefir Probiotic Drinks 2-7x Each | Cultures in Less Than a Day

4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 2,552 ratings

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Size: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)
Flavor Name: Plain
Diet type
Brand Cultures For Health
Flavor Plain
Item Weight 0.3 Ounces
Item Form Powder
Number of Items 4

About this item

  • BEGINNER FRIENDLY: This powdered starter is the easiest culture in the world, so if you want to get into kefir but aren't ready to maintain milk or water kefir grains, this is the perfect solution for you!
  • COST EFFECTIVE: Includes 4 packets of starter culture, and with proper care, each kefir starter can be re-cultured 2-7 times; simply reserve 1/4 cup from previous batch for next one.
  • VERSATILE: Can be used with a wide variety of different kinds of beverages, including milk, water, juice, coconut water, or plant based milk such as coconut milk.
  • HEALTH BENEFITS: Kefir contains many healthy qualities, such as probiotics for digestive health (more than yogurt), plus vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium in milk kefir.
  • SAFE: Each batch is pathogen tested by a trusted third-party laboratory so you know you are getting a high quality, healthy starter culture to use at home.

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Product Description

The "key-fir" unlocking stronger gut health

pouch of kefir starter with jars of assorted types of kefir, like milk, water, and juice

Fun fact: The word kefir comes from the Turkish word keyif, meaning "feeling good."

For hundreds of years, this fermented probiotic beverage was a well-kept secret from the rest of the world. Today, we are privileged to have this drink whenever we like, and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.

What kind of kefir can I make with this starter?

If you're still new to the amazing world of kefir, this is the perfect starter to begin with, because you can try out any type of kefir you can think of! From traditional milk kefir to coconut water kefir, as long as there's sugar for the culture to consume, the possibilities are limitless.

hand holding packet of kefir starter in front of jars of assorted types of kefir
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Enjoy the health benefits kefir has to offer

pouring milk kefir into glasses; kefir starter; kefir starter grains; kefir starter culture;

Milk Kefir

  • More probiotics than yogurt
  • Great source of calcium and vitamin K2, promoting strong bones
  • Easier to digest than most dairy products, due to probiotics and lower lactose content

water kefir in glass with bottle next to it; water kefir starter; water kefir starter kit;

Water Kefir

  • Much less sugar than regular soft drinks, as most of the sugar is consumed by the culture
  • Good source of probiotics and enzymes
  • Aids digestive and immune systems

Is this powdered starter better than just buying water or milk kefir grains?

It just depends on your needs! This powdered culture is best for beginners, because it's less of a commitment (limited re-culturing rather than infinite) and more versatile, as it makes any type of kefir. However, this kefir isn't as nutrient-dense.

How much kefir can I get from this starter?

It's not an exact science, as it depends on culturing conditions. Generally speaking, each of the 4 included starter packets can culture a quart at a time, with the potential to culture 2–7 more times. Thus the total yield is between 1 and 8 gallons.

How do I "re-culture" with this starter, since there are no grains to strain out?

The powdered culture will indeed dissolve with the first batch; however, you can simply reserve ¼ cup of the previous batch (per quart) and use that as starter for the next one. For best results, start next batch as soon as the previous is finished.

How do I know when it's done?

When dairy milk kefir is finished culturing, it thickens into a similar consistency to heavy cream or drinkable yogurt. Water kefir will become cloudy and less sweet. Finished kefir stays good in fridge for 2–3 weeks.

Can I culture one kind of kefir with another (e.g., use water kefir to make juice kefir)?

For this starter, cross-culturing is not recommended. With kefir grains, you can transfer grains to a similar medium (e.g., water to juice, or milk to coconut milk), but grains should be revitalized with their original substance every few batches.

Product details

  • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
  • Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.89 x 5.12 x 0.43 inches; 0.3 ounces
  • UPC ‏ : ‎ 814598020353
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Cultures for Health K
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B016BZU2OQ
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 2,552 ratings

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Cultures for Health Kefir Starter Culture | 4 Packets Freeze Dried Starter Powder | Make Kefir with Milk, Water, or Juice | Re-Culture Kefir Probiotic Drinks 2-7x Each | Cultures in Less Than a Day
Cultures for Health Kefir Starter Culture | 4 Packets Freeze Dried Starter Powder | Make Kefir with Milk, Water, or Juice | Re-Culture Kefir Probiotic Drinks 2-7x Each | Cultures in Less Than a Day
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PriceCurrently unavailable.$14.49$26.85$49.99$13.99$14.95
Price Per Unit$82.14 / Ounce$9.59 / Ounce$49.99 / Count$1.75 / Ounce$5.30 / Ounce
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Get it as soon as Thursday, Feb 6
Get it as soon as Thursday, Feb 6
Get it Feb 6 - 11
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Important information

Safety Information

May contain trace amounts of soy and dairy. Store in refrigerator. Use by date on bag.

Ingredients

Cultures for Health Kefir Starter Culture | 4 Packets Freeze Dried Starter Powder | Make Kefir with Milk, Water, or Juice | Re-Culture Kefir Probiotic Drinks 2-7x Each | Cultures in Less Than a Day

Directions

Store the starter in the refrigerator until ready to activate it. Use the starter culture by the date on the bag. For activation, use 1 Quart-Sized Glass Jar, Coffee Filter or Butter Muslin, Rubber Band, Thermometer, Plastic or Stainless Steel Mesh Strainer, and Pasteurized Whole Milk (Not UHT/Ultra-Pasteurized), Juice, Coconut Milk, or Coconut Water.

Legal Disclaimer

Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

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Customer reviews

4.1 out of 5 stars
2,552 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the dairy-based drink easy to use and produce. They enjoy the creamy, tangy taste that is less sour than kombucha. Many appreciate the health benefits and fermentation rate. However, some customers have mixed opinions on functionality, kefir quality, value for money, and durability.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

117 customers mention "Ease of use"108 positive9 negative

Customers find the kefir powder easy to use and say it's not too much trouble to make kefir at home with this kit. They mention it's perfect for beginners and gives them what they need without fuss.

"Easy to use instructions included. Works well with dairy or no dairy milks." Read more

"...This is really simple & great for beginners or someone who may not want to do this long-term...." Read more

"...I love this culture, gives me what I need with no fuss. My last batch was from a frozen cube, and I got a nice quart of kefir for baking...." Read more

"...Once your start it, you can just keep it going. The packets are quite convenient." Read more

108 customers mention "Taste"83 positive25 negative

Customers enjoy the kefir's taste. They find it creamy and tangy, less sour than kombucha, and more yogurt-like. Many describe it as a treat and easy to make. They like pairing it with fruit and oatmeal for a quick breakfast.

"...with 1 quart of milk, let it sit for about 18-24 hours & you have delicious & thick kefir...." Read more

"...Perfect results on both at 6 am.( 12 hours later) Kefir tastes really good, better than the grocery store stuff...." Read more

"...cultures seemed to be of good quality, and they produced a creamy and tangy kefir drink that I enjoyed thoroughly...." Read more

"...Tricks I found useful: - first batch tasted really weird, it did turn to kefir texture though, so I just used part of it to make a second batch..." Read more

29 customers mention "Health benefits"26 positive3 negative

Customers appreciate the health benefits of this dairy based drink. They say it works better than store-bought, helps restore gut health, and tastes great. Some customers also mention that their dogs enjoy the properties.

"...for Health Kefir Starter Culture, and while the product itself delivered good results, I couldn't help but feel that it was a little pricey for what..." Read more

"...While it can yield delicious results, as my grape kefir success story shows, the inconsistency in packet performance is a significant drawback...." Read more

"...batch, then used UHT milk for all other batches and it worked as good as fresh milk...." Read more

"Grains worked great" Read more

28 customers mention "Fermentation rate"20 positive8 negative

Customers find the product's fermentation rate fast and easy. They mention it's the fastest way to make kefir, making it ready in 12 hours or so. It takes 3 weeks to create a strong culture before you can put it to the fridge to rest. The powder is great for getting a starter going so you can use the original batch.

"...After making 10 batches (1 quart each), the milk is still fermenting, but I find the flavor to become weaker and less bubbly, I might start with a..." Read more

"...It takes 3 +weeks to create strong culture before you can put it to the fridge to rest. I tried before and nothing happened...." Read more

"...Unfortunately, these cultures were dead and my coconut water never fermented...." Read more

"...Great way to get started and find out if you like kefir and/or want to go the extra mile to move on to long term kefir grains...." Read more

167 customers mention "Functionality"95 positive72 negative

Customers have mixed opinions about the product's functionality. Some say it works well to make kefir from milk and makes several batches from one packet. Others report that it didn't work at all.

"Easy to use instructions included. Works well with dairy or no dairy milks." Read more

"...time user of Kefir grains I followed instructions included with failed results...." Read more

"I used this with Horizon Whole Milk (UHT) & it made excellent kefir, quickly. This is so simple to use...." Read more

"...Though this specific package did not work for me, after their outreach I am much more inclined to say 'give them a chance' as they seem to stand..." Read more

78 customers mention "Kefir quality"31 positive47 negative

Customers have different experiences with the kefir quality. Some find it easy to use and can make kefir again and again. Others report that the product did not produce any grains, only powder.

"...Good stuff. Because it's powder and not grains, I didn't expect to cultivate grains right off (or at all?),..." Read more

"I used this with Horizon Whole Milk (UHT) & it made excellent kefir, quickly. This is so simple to use...." Read more

"...But no grains grew at all. I had some very super tiny soft pieces of yogourt kind but that was melting once squeezed into the cheese cloth...." Read more

"...My last batch was from a frozen cube, and I got a nice quart of kefir for baking. so the frozen cube trick works." Read more

59 customers mention "Value for money"21 positive38 negative

Customers have different views on the product's value for money. Some find it an economical and long-lasting option, while others say it's a waste of money and time. They mention it's useless powder that doesn't dissolve in juice, and it's too watered down to be used again.

"...good results, I couldn't help but feel that it was a little pricey for what it offered...." Read more

"Packets often last for many more batches of kefir than stated. Good value" Read more

"...Nothing happened. Wasted the milk, and time. Feeling duped. Actually updating my initial review here. I just needed to wait a bit longer...." Read more

"Increase price. I tried other Kefir without good results. I will buy this brand again" Read more

45 customers mention "Durability"24 positive21 negative

Customers have different views on the product's durability. Some find it reliable and long-lasting, while others mention it is not made for long-term use and has a limited lifespan.

"...This powder/mix can be used several times – I haven’t tried it yet...." Read more

"...And as noted they just over ferment constantly which gives me great cheese but not great yogurty kefir...." Read more

"...The cultures seemed to be of good quality, and they produced a creamy and tangy kefir drink that I enjoyed thoroughly...." Read more

"...The resulting kefir can be a bit chunky, I just shake the bottle and it becomes super creamy. Tricks I found useful: -..." Read more

Tastes better than commercial brands!
5 out of 5 stars
Tastes better than commercial brands!
I read that drinking, kefir, lowers blood pressure, and if taken before bedtime helps to sleep because it has tryptophan. I have been drinking it for years.I mixed one packet of this starter powder in a 1 quart bottle with 2% Lactaid milk (all I had). Next I placed a piece of paper towel with a rubber band around the top to help it breathe. Then I placed it in deep bowl of warm water for about 1/2 hour to bring it to room temperature faster. After that, I placed the bottle in a grocery paper bag and rolled the top down. After 15 hours I checked it and had nice creamy Kefir that tasted sweeter than the commercial brands.I then took some of the new Kefir and put it in another bottle with some more milk to make my second batch. If you do the steps correctly, you will make very healthy kefir for yourself which is a lot less expensive and tastes better. Easy Peezy! Do not be afraid. You can also set the bottle in an ice chest overnight if no paper bags.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2025
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase
    Easy to use instructions included. Works well with dairy or no dairy milks.
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 19, 2021
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    I used this with Horizon Whole Milk (UHT) & it made excellent kefir, quickly. This is so simple to use. Just dissolve 1 packet with 1 quart of milk, let it sit for about 18-24 hours & you have delicious & thick kefir.

    This kefir culture can also be used with water, juice or coconut milk. It is not kefir “grain” which can live on indefinitely. This powder/mix can be used several times – I haven’t tried it yet. You save ¼ cup of your finished kefir and use that as the starter for your next batch – mix it with a quart of milk or whatever your using.

    This is really simple & great for beginners or someone who may not want to do this long-term. You can store the unopened packets in the freezer for future use.
    57 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 28, 2024
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase
    the instructions included were for activated grains and i didnt find any other instruction being a first time user of Kefir grains I followed instructions included with failed results. I reserarched online and learned they needed to be activated first so i followed those instructions with a new pk of Kefir grains and failed yet again. not wanting to wast time, mild ect... i decideed to moe on to moist Kefir grains with a different co. and already have recieved email and video instructions with step by step how to activate and use their product. because i have used 2 of the 4 pks from first purchase i am not going to seak a refund but wanted inform those who are just begining the Kefir milk process what my experience was.
    13 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2016
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    I have made yogurt for years, but never thought much about kefir, the stuff i had tasted terrible and was too sweet. I decided to retry kefir, , and make it fresh like yogurt.
    I wanted to start with culture before getting into grains. I only use one quart of yogurt every 2-3 weeks.
    shipping was prime fast.
    I had 1 quart of fresh goat milk, and 1/2 gallon of local cow milk, single grass fed herd, pasteurized.
    I made a small quart of goat yogurt, and a mixed quart of kefir.
    I warmed the milk in the quart jar, quart jar in pot with warm water for 30 mins ( warming it a bit helps the starter).
    I pitched both cultures at the same time, 6 pm. since I keep a very cool house, I snuggled the kefir next to the yogurt maker, and
    wrapped a dish towel around it.
    Perfect results on both at 6 am.( 12 hours later)
    Kefir tastes really good, better than the grocery store stuff.
    I am using a old yogurt trick, I put kefir in a ice cube tray, froze it and will use it to set the next batches. Just get the milk to room temp,
    then add the frozen cube, stir an hour later. I bet it will work just like yogurt starter.

    I tried kefri grains, from a friend, what a smelly stinky mess.
    I love this culture, gives me what I need with no fuss. My last batch was from a frozen cube, and I got a nice quart of kefir for baking. so the frozen cube trick works.
    Customer image
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    I love this, no mess, easy to use!!!!!

    Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2016
    I have made yogurt for years, but never thought much about kefir, the stuff i had tasted terrible and was too sweet. I decided to retry kefir, , and make it fresh like yogurt.
    I wanted to start with culture before getting into grains. I only use one quart of yogurt every 2-3 weeks.
    shipping was prime fast.
    I had 1 quart of fresh goat milk, and 1/2 gallon of local cow milk, single grass fed herd, pasteurized.
    I made a small quart of goat yogurt, and a mixed quart of kefir.
    I warmed the milk in the quart jar, quart jar in pot with warm water for 30 mins ( warming it a bit helps the starter).
    I pitched both cultures at the same time, 6 pm. since I keep a very cool house, I snuggled the kefir next to the yogurt maker, and
    wrapped a dish towel around it.
    Perfect results on both at 6 am.( 12 hours later)
    Kefir tastes really good, better than the grocery store stuff.
    I am using a old yogurt trick, I put kefir in a ice cube tray, froze it and will use it to set the next batches. Just get the milk to room temp,
    then add the frozen cube, stir an hour later. I bet it will work just like yogurt starter.

    I tried kefri grains, from a friend, what a smelly stinky mess.
    I love this culture, gives me what I need with no fuss. My last batch was from a frozen cube, and I got a nice quart of kefir for baking. so the frozen cube trick works.
    Images in this review
    Customer image
    270 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2023
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    I recently purchased the Cultures for Health Kefir Starter Culture, and while the product itself delivered good results, I couldn't help but feel that it was a little pricey for what it offered. The package contained a small amount of kefir starter culture, and considering the cost, I expected a more generous quantity.

    Another aspect that left me somewhat disappointed was the instructions provided. As a first-time kefir maker, I was hoping for clear and detailed guidance on the preparation process, but the instructions seemed somewhat vague and lacking in crucial information. I had to search for additional resources online to understand the proper steps fully.

    That said, the kefir starter culture did work as promised, and my kefir turned out delicious and healthy. The cultures seemed to be of good quality, and they produced a creamy and tangy kefir drink that I enjoyed thoroughly. The taste and benefits were there, but I just wished for a smoother experience in the preparation phase.

    In the future, I might explore other kefir starter options that offer more value for the price and come with more comprehensive instructions, especially for beginners. While the Cultures for Health Kefir Starter Culture does the job, I feel there are better alternatives available that strike a better balance between cost and quantity while providing clearer guidance for users.
    36 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2024
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    I used one package in about a half cup of pre-"warmed"/uncooled milk (did it in the microwave to knock the chill off) and left it set for over 24 going on 36 hours in a spot on the counter next to the fridge where the temperature is just right. Once it began to be about the consistency of cream, I added more prewarmed milk to around a cup total, stirred and left it overnight. Once ready, I gave the first batch to the dogs, leaving around a quarter cup from the bottom in my culturing jar (I use a dedicated jar, dedicated strainer, dedicated spoon to stir and strain) and added another cup of prewarmed milk. Next morning strained out the developing grains, again leaving more in the bottom and carried on. Good stuff.

    Because it's powder and not grains, I didn't expect to cultivate grains right off (or at all?), which is why I left a good amount in the bottom rather than straining out all the way to the grains. Once I have a good supply going, I'll rinse some out with milk and dry in the freezer for reserves. I had used up and finally messed up the reserves I had from a 2016 starter, I think it was, that I've used all these years. They do well, travel well once dry, travel well as an active culture.

    Patience and understanding with your new pets.
    6 people found this helpful
    Report

Top reviews from other countries

  • Lenore McKenzie
    5.0 out of 5 stars Best Kefir
    Reviewed in Canada on March 10, 2023
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    I have been taking Kefir in smoothies daily for 4 year . I accidentally destroyed my kefir grains and I’m not able to get more for a few weeks . I bought theses to fill in the time till the grains came in . I am so happy with them. They are the best tasting and quick acting I have ever know . I give them an A+ and if I could afford them , I would never go back to my grains . Buy these - you never will be sorry .
  • High Tech Custom Services
    1.0 out of 5 stars This Kefir Starter Powder is an absolute disaster. It's a complete waste of your time and money!!
    Reviewed in Canada on March 12, 2024
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    This Kefir Starter Powder is an absolute disaster. Despite meticulously cleaning and sanitizing the vessel and strictly adhering to the recommended temperature and procedure guidelines, it failed to ferment at all. Adding insult to injury, after just a few days of fermenting, the mixture started to develop mold. It's not just disappointing; it's downright disgusting. To make matters worse, returning this worthless product isn't even an option. This isn't your traditional kefir grains; it's more like a starter power for frustration and moldy concoctions. Save yourself the hassle and find a reliable kefir solution elsewhere. This product is a complete and utter failure.
  • Brian jones
    5.0 out of 5 stars Kefir
    Reviewed in Canada on January 18, 2025
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    The product exceeded what I expected. It has great taste
  • Roland Leandrosz
    4.0 out of 5 stars It's very costly.
    Reviewed in Canada on November 1, 2024
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    For probiotics. For overall health.
  • DavidM1
    5.0 out of 5 stars Freeze dried kefir starter
    Reviewed in Canada on May 3, 2022
    Flavor Name: PlainSize: 0.2 Ounce (Pack of 4)Verified Purchase
    This is the best Kefir starter I have tried.

    And I have tried many ways to make kefir.

    And have used one kind or another of kefir or some sort of cultured milk product all my life.
    It is easy to use, and fast.
    Works with cold milk and ferments at room temperature in under 24 hrs.

    Very good product.

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