How long does kefir last? Kefir grains, kefir powder and kefir milk will last for different amounts of time, decreasing in the order given, when properly stored as described below. Kefir milk is considered a fermented food with similar, yet more, probiotic benefits compared to yogurt.
The shelf life of kefir is influenced by a variety of factors, such as the form, processing method, carton date, light and heat exposure, and how it is stored.
Mold may appear as white, green, orange, red, or black spots on the surface of the kefir, or a pink discoloration of the milk. Kefir grains that turn pink, orange, red, green, or black may be contaminated. Yellow or yellowish-white kefir grains are not a bad sign but rather a normal variation.
What are our shelf life resources?
In determining how long Kefir lasts, our content incorporates research from multiple resources, including the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food & Drug Administration. In addition, we scoured the web for informative articles and reports related to food safety, food storage and the shelf life of Kefir.
How to tell if Kefir is bad, rotten or spoiled?
Practicing proper hygiene and food safety techniques will help prevent foodborne illness.
Since plain kefir milk will already have a sour smell and taste when fresh, it is harder to tell if kefir milk has gone bad. Look for any changes in color, texture or aroma of the product.
Kefir grains will begin to become compromised if left in fresh milk for longer than 24 hours. They will begin to slowly die off after that if not removed an either placed into fresh milk, properly dried or frozen.
If you have bad kefir milk, check our substitute page to find a proper alternative.
There are, of course, certain health risks associated with spoiled foods so always remember to practice food safety and enjoy your foods before their shelf life has expired!
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