Kefiran vs. Kefir — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 5, 2024
Kefiran is a polysaccharide found in kefir grains, contributing to kefir's viscosity, while kefir is a fermented milk drink rich in probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.
Difference Between Kefiran and Kefir
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Kefiran is a specific component of kefir grains, mainly responsible for the gel-like structure and health benefits of kefir, including immune system support and gut health. On the other hand, kefir is a cultured, creamy beverage with a sour taste produced by fermenting milk with kefir grains, offering a broader spectrum of nutritional benefits such as probiotics, calcium, and protein.
Kefiran has been studied for its potential in promoting health, particularly in enhancing the immune system and providing anti-inflammatory effects. Whereas, kefir's broader range of probiotics can improve digestion, boost immunity, and even have antidepressant effects due to the gut-brain axis.
While kefiran is a valuable polysaccharide contributing to the probiotic content and texture of kefir, kefir itself contains various other components, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a more complex nutritional product.
The production of kefiran involves the fermentation of lactose by the bacteria in kefir grains, leading to its formation within the grains. Kefir production, however, encompasses fermenting milk with kefir grains, resulting in a beverage that includes kefiran among its ingredients but is defined by its unique fermentation process and resultant flavor profile.
Kefiran's benefits are specifically tied to its molecular structure and its role in supporting gut health and the immune system. Kefir, as a whole product, offers a wider array of health benefits attributed to its diverse microbial composition, including improved lactose digestion for those with lactose intolerance.
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Comparison Chart
Nature
Polysaccharide
Fermented milk drink
Source
Found in kefir grains
Made by fermenting milk with kefir grains
Benefits
Supports immune system, anti-inflammatory
Probiotics, vitamins, improves digestion, boosts immunity
Production
By-product of kefir grain fermentation
Produced by fermenting milk with kefir grains
Main Role
Contributes to viscosity and health benefits of kefir
Consumed as a probiotic beverage
Compare with Definitions
Kefiran
Extracted primarily from kefir grains during the fermentation process.
Kefiran extraction is a key step in studying its health effects.
Kefir
A fermented milk drink that originated in the Caucasus Mountains, rich in probiotics.
Kefir is often consumed for its gut health benefits.
Kefiran
A polysaccharide found in kefir grains that contributes to the health benefits and viscosity of kefir.
Kefiran is being researched for its role in promoting gut health.
Kefir
Contains a complex mix of bacteria and yeasts beneficial for digestive and overall health.
Drinking kefir regularly can help maintain a healthy gut flora.
Kefiran
A substance that has potential anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.
Kefiran supplements are considered by some as a natural way to boost immunity.
Kefir
Can be made from any type of milk, including cow, goat, or sheep.
Goat milk kefir has a particularly creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Kefiran
Known for its gel-forming capabilities, enhancing the texture of kefir.
The unique texture of kefir can be attributed to kefiran.
Kefir
The fermentation process makes kefir a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Kefir is high in calcium and vitamin B12.
Kefiran
Studies suggest kefiran may help improve skin health.
Kefiran is being included in some skincare products for its beneficial properties.
Kefir
Lactose-intolerant individuals may tolerate kefir better than regular milk.
The fermentation process reduces lactose content in kefir, making it easier to digest.
Kefiran
The clear or pale yellow polysaccharide gel exuded by dairy kefir or water kefir grains.
Kefir
Kefir (also spelled as kephir or kefier, Russian: Кефир; Karachay-Balkar: Гыпы) ( KE-feer), is a fermented milk drink similar to a thin yogurt or ayran that is made from kefir grains, a specific type of mesophilic symbiotic culture. The drink originated in the North Caucasus, in particular the Elbrus environs along the upper mountainous regions of Karachay and Balkaria from where it came to Russia, and from there it spread to Europe and the United States, where it is prepared by inoculating the milk of cows, goats, or sheep with kefir grains.
Kefir
A creamy drink made of fermented cow's milk.
Kefir
A fermented milk drink from the Caucasus and Eastern Europe, similar to yogurt but more liquidy.
Kefir
An effervescent liquor like kumiss, made from fermented milk, used as a food and as a medicine in the northern Caucasus.
Kefir
A sour fermented milk drink, used in various regions of Asia, made by addition of Streptococcus or Lactobacillus cultures to cow's or goat's milk; it is considered by some as a form of yoghurt.
Common Curiosities
Can kefir help with digestion?
Yes, kefir's probiotics can significantly improve digestion and gut health.
Does kefir contain lactose?
Kefir contains reduced lactose levels due to fermentation, making it more tolerable for those with lactose intolerance.
What is kefiran?
Kefiran is a polysaccharide found in kefir grains, known for its health benefits and contribution to kefir's viscosity.
Is kefiran available as a supplement?
Yes, kefiran is available in supplement form, primarily for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
How is kefir made?
Kefir is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains, which are a combination of bacteria and yeasts.
Is kefiran found in all types of kefir?
Yes, kefiran is found in all types of kefir as it is produced by the bacteria in kefir grains.
What does kefir taste like?
Kefir has a tart, slightly sour taste, similar to yogurt but with a thinner consistency.
Is kefir good for your skin?
Yes, the probiotics in kefir can have a positive effect on skin health by reducing inflammation and improving hydration.
Can kefir grains die?
Yes, if not properly maintained, kefir grains can die or stop fermenting effectively.
How does kefir affect the immune system?
Kefir can boost the immune system by improving gut health and increasing the production of antibodies.
What's the difference between kefir and yogurt?
Kefir has a thinner consistency than yogurt and contains a wider range of probiotics due to its unique fermentation process.
Can vegans consume kefir?
Traditional kefir is made from dairy, but there are non-dairy versions made with coconut water or plant-based milks.
Are kefir grains reusable?
Yes, kefir grains can be reused many times to ferment new batches of milk.
Can kefir help with lactose intolerance?
Yes, the fermentation process reduces the lactose content in kefir, making it easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance.
How long does homemade kefir last?
Homemade kefir can last up to a week when stored in the refrigerator.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
