How do I store my fresh milk kefir grains when going away on holidays?
Fresh milk kefir grains can be stored in a jar of milk in the fridge for up to 7 days.
The grains will become dormant during this time, so will need a few days of fermenting again at room temperature to become fully active.
If it is possible, I recommend taking the grains away with you.
Can I use the fresh milk kefir grains with alternate milks?
Yes, you can use the fresh milk kefir grains to ferment alternate milks such as coconut milk, almond milk and rice milk.
However, as the fresh milk kefir grains feed on the lactose and fat in dairy milks you will need to alternate between fermenting dairy milk and the alternate milk.
For example, ferment in the dairy milk for 10 to 14 days, then ferment in the alternate milk for 5 to 7 days, then back to dairy milk again and so on. If you do not do this, the kefir grains will eventually starve and die.
Which milks are suitable for fermenting fresh milk kefir grains?
Any FULL cream, fresh milk, either pasteurized or raw, is suitable for fermenting fresh milk kefir grains.
UHT milk is NOT suitable.
Lactose free milk is NOT suitable.