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What is Water Kefir?

https://gem-3910432.netWater Kefir is a centuries-old fermented beverage made by combining filtered water with fruits, a small amount of sugar with water kefir grains.

The “grains” consist of bacteria and yeast existing in a symbiotic relationship and look like jelly crystals.

The term “kefir grains” describes the look of the culture only. Water kefir grains contain no actual “grains” such as wheat, or rye.

Tummy rumbling?


Try our Original Water Kefir

How is it made?

The kefir grains are left to ferment in water with organic lemon, ginger and a small amount of organic sugar for 48 hours.

What is gut microbiota?

The gut microbiota is the collection of microorganisms that live in our gut, where they help us in many ways.

The microbiota plays an important role in digestionweight managementblood regulation, and the immune system. No wonder it is called the “second brain”!

The microbiota is a complex research topic, but there is increasing evidence that eating fermented foods is beneficial to our health.

Indeed, studies have shown that some of the yeast and bacteria found in water kefir may colonise our gut and have a positive effect on our microbiota.

Why is Water Kefir good for you? Including Huddersfield University Independent Study

Water kefir is full of probiotics digestive enzymes, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These probiotics are immune-boosting, anti-pathogenic and make your gut healthier :)

In an independent study conducted by Huddersfield University, it was found that there are three dominant-live and active bacteria within Agua De Madre. L. suionicum, L. mesenteroides and L. pseudomesenteroides.

They work to boost the survival of other beneficial bacteria inside your gut.


Read the research summary

Does Water Kefir contain alcohol?

As with all live cultured and fermented foods, a small amount of naturally occurring alcohol is a lucky bi-product of the ferment. Our Madres can climb up to just over 0.5% ABV towards the best before date as all the natural sugars are metabolised. In actuality your body metabolises the alcohol before it can enter the blood system, the amount is so low. The drink is about the live cultures not the alcohol. Children can drink it watered down to remove the alcohol.

Are we organic?

We are Soil Association Certified Organic

How is Water Kefir different from Kombucha?

While similar in concept (a fermented beverage made from a bacterial culture) and process, they are completely different cultures and therefore contain different strains of probiotics and different digestive enzymes. Kombucha is a fermented tea and is often caffeinated, water kefir has no caffeine.  Kombucha is slightly higher in digestive enzymes and water kefir is higher in probiotics.  While both fermented drinks are great digestive aids, they each contain different levels of acids and bacteria.  Kombucha is much more acidic than water kefir.

The taste is quite different also; kombucha has a slightly sweet, tart zing to it and depending on the brewing time can range from having a mild taste to having a strong-vinegar-like taste while water kefir has a mild, more mainstream natural soda flavour.

Water kefir is perfect for people who are sensitive to caffeine, or for those who wish to reduce their consumption.

Is there a lot of sugar in Water Kefir?

0.1g per 100ml when the bottle is capped. 9 kcals per 100ml. The drink is live so the sugar continues to metabolise into a natural trace low-alcohol and a reduced level per 100ml. In less than 48 hours, 66 to 80% of the sugar is consumed by yeast and bacteria. 

Can I keep Water Kefir out of the fridge?

Unless you are drinking it or it is a cold day we advise keeping it refrigerated. At most, no longer than an hour. The cans can be left out of the fridge.

Does Water Kefir contain dairy?
Nope.

Can you drink it if you are pregnant?
Some pregnant women thrive on it because of the digestive enzymes and probiotics. Because of the trace alcohol, we recommend that you exercise caution and confirm with your doctor before consuming.

Does Water Kefir contain gluten?
Nope.

Does Water Kefir contain caffeine?
Nope.

What is the difference between Water Kefir and Dairy Kefir?

Water kefir has a sweeter taste compared with milk kefir which is tart and strong flavoured. Water kefir is also dairy-free, making it a perfect choice for those who want to avoid dairy or are vegan. 


Water kefir is a lighter drink, making it easier to drink in larger quantities especially during warm weather for hydration. Both have similar numbers of live lactobaccillus cultures just different strains.


For more detail, read our blog post on the difference between water kefir and dairy kefir Water Kefir vs Dairy Kefir.

What is the benefit of taking Water Kefir instead of a probiotic supplement?

Fermented products such as water kefir are considered functional foods because they offer enzymes, pre-digested nutrients, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and billions of probiotics.


Probiotic pill supplements contain just one or a select variety of bacteria - typically that is all they contain.


It’s always better to consume something in its whole form when possible as it contains all the parts needed to assimilate nutrients correctly.

Is Water Kefir safe for diabetics?

Some diabetics have no problem as the bacteria and yeast produce enzymes that break down the sucrose (the double sugar that sugar is composed of) into fructose and glucose. Fructose is digested by the liver and does not spike the blood sugar in diabetics like sucrose or glucose. Because of the fructose, it makes this drink a lower GL. Also, the added acetic acids and carbonation from the fermentation process lower the GL.


Note: We advise that diabetics check with their doctor before consuming water kefir.

Can my kids drink it?

We would not encourage children under 12 to drink it because of the trace alcohol, although it can be diluted.

How much Water Kefir should i drink a day?

A 250ml glass a day is a great start, then slowly work up as your gut adjusts to the bacteria. As a replacement for a supplement, even this small amount contains billions of probiotics, the perfect amount for a daily dose.

Like what you’ve read? Have a browse of our products to see what tickles your (gut’s) fancy 😋

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