What is the best brand of kefir in the USA?

January 13, 2026 •

4 min read

According to Statista, the market for refrigerated kefir continues to grow steadily in the U.S., signaling a strong consumer interest in probiotic products. When deciding what is the best brand of kefir in the USA, the answer often depends on personal preference for taste, texture, and dietary needs like organic or dairy-free options.

Quick Summary

This guide evaluates the best kefir brands in the U.S., comparing flavor, nutritional content, and variety to help consumers select the ideal probiotic drink for their needs.

Key Points

Lifeway is the most accessible brand: As the market leader, Lifeway is widely available in the USA and offers a diverse range of classic kefir products, including organic and non-fat options.
Maple Hill offers premium, grass-fed kefir: For those who prioritize sourcing, Maple Hill uses 100% grass-fed organic milk, resulting in a rich, creamy, and less-sweet beverage.
Wallaby is ideal for a smoother, thicker texture: This brand provides a less-tart and thicker kefir, making it a great entry point for those new to the taste of fermented drinks.
Consider Green Valley Organics for lactose intolerance: Green Valley offers a specifically formulated organic, lactose-free kefir, allowing sensitive individuals to enjoy the probiotic benefits.
Opt for plain kefir to control sugar intake: Nutritionists recommend choosing unflavored kefir to avoid added sugars and flavor it naturally with fruit at home.
Evaluate taste, texture, and ingredients: The 'best' kefir depends on personal preference. Experiment with different brands to find the flavor profile, consistency, and milk source that you prefer.
Look for high live and active culture counts: A higher number of strains and CFUs per serving typically indicates a more beneficial probiotic beverage.

What Defines a Quality Kefir Brand?

Choosing the best kefir brand involves considering several key factors beyond just taste. The most important elements include probiotic count, ingredient quality, and nutritional profile. Reputable brands emphasize high counts of live and active cultures, with some offering up to 12 different strains. Quality ingredients, such as organic, grass-fed, or non-GMO milk, also play a significant role. The best kefir is also free from excessive added sugars, artificial flavors, and thickeners like gums and pectin.

Types of Kefir

Traditional Milk Kefir: Made from cow, goat, or sheep's milk, this is the most common type. It offers a creamy, tangy flavor and is packed with a wide range of probiotics, calcium, and protein.
Dairy-Free Kefir: For those avoiding dairy, brands offer alternatives made from cashews, coconut milk, or water kefir. These products provide probiotic benefits without the dairy, though their nutrient profile can differ.
Flavored vs. Plain: While flavored kefirs are popular, plain varieties are often recommended by nutritionists to avoid excess added sugars. For more flavor, plain kefir can be blended with fresh fruit at home. For those who prefer a flavored option, look for brands with low added sugar content.

Top Contenders for Best Kefir Brand in the USA

Lifeway: As one of the most widely available brands, Lifeway offers a vast selection including low-fat, organic, and non-fat varieties. They are known for a classic, tangy flavor and a high number of live and active cultures. Lifeway is a solid, accessible choice for most consumers.
Maple Hill Creamery: A standout for those prioritizing sourcing, Maple Hill's kefir is made from 100% grass-fed organic milk. Reviewers praise its smooth texture and rich taste, which is a result of high-quality milk. The brand offers options with minimal sweetness.
Wallaby Organic: This brand is praised for a thick, creamy, and less-tart flavor profile compared to some other brands, making it a good option for those new to kefir. It is made with organic milk and contains 12 different live and active cultures.
Green Valley Organics: A great choice for lactose-intolerant individuals, this brand offers a lactose-free organic kefir. It provides a smooth, thick consistency and a tangy flavor.
Redwood Hill Farm: For those who prefer goat milk, Redwood Hill Farm offers a creamy, savory goat milk kefir. It provides a distinct flavor profile and is rich in probiotics.

Comparison Table: Leading Kefir Brands


Feature	Lifeway (Organic Plain)	Maple Hill (Plain)	Wallaby (Lowfat Plain)	Green Valley (Organic Whole Plain)	Redwood Hill (Plain Goat Milk)
Milk Source	Organic	100% Grass-Fed Organic	Organic	Organic (Lactose-Free)	Goat Milk
Availability	Very widespread	Widespread (specialty stores)	Widespread	Widespread (specialty stores)	Widespread (specialty stores)
Probiotic Strains	12 live and active cultures	12+ active cultures	12 live and active cultures	Varies	11 live and active cultures
Taste Profile	Classic, tangy, creamy	Smooth, creamy, less sweet	Thick, peachy, less tart	Tart, tangy, smooth	Savory, creamy, like liquid goat cheese
Added Sugar	None in plain varieties	None in plain varieties	None in plain varieties	None in plain varieties	None in plain varieties

How to Choose the Best Kefir Brand for You

Determining the single best brand is subjective, as different products cater to various preferences. Start by identifying your dietary needs and taste preferences. Are you seeking a classic tangy flavor, a smoother profile, or a dairy-free alternative? Check the label for live and active cultures; a higher number often indicates a more potent probiotic product. For plain kefir, prioritize low or no added sugars. If you prefer flavored varieties, choose one with fewer added sugars. Finally, consider whether organic, grass-fed, or A2/A2 milk is important to you and look for brands with those certifications.

The Health Benefits of Kefir

Beyond its taste, kefir is valued for its health-promoting properties. The live and active cultures are essential for gut health, contributing to a balanced microbiome. Regular consumption has been linked to improved digestion and lactose tolerance, making it a good choice for some with mild intolerance. Kefir is also a rich source of nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins D and K2, supporting bone density and overall health. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may also help boost the immune system and support skin health.

Conclusion

While a definitive single "best brand" is debatable, Lifeway remains the most dominant and accessible choice for the average consumer. However, excellent alternatives exist for those with specific dietary requirements or taste preferences. The best practice is to read labels, check reviews, and taste different options to discover your personal favorite. By considering factors like ingredients, taste, and probiotic count, you can confidently find a high-quality kefir that aligns with your wellness goals. For detailed nutritional information, you can consult reputable sources like the Environmental Working Group's Food Scores database for kefir products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kefir typically contains a wider variety of probiotic strains and more colony-forming units (CFUs) than most yogurts. It is also a thinner, drinkable consistency and has a tangier, slightly effervescent flavor due to fermentation with yeast and bacteria.

Yes, many people with mild lactose intolerance can enjoy kefir. The fermentation process breaks down much of the lactose, making it easier to digest. Lactose-free varieties, like those from Green Valley Organics, are also available.

Flavored kefirs can contain significant amounts of added sugar. For the healthiest option, choose plain, unsweetened kefir. If you prefer flavor, look for brands with minimal added sugar or add your own fresh fruit.

Kefir supports gut health by balancing the microbiome, aids digestion, and boosts the immune system. It also provides essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins D and K2, which promote bone density.

Leading brands like Lifeway and Wallaby are widely available in most grocery stores, while specialty options like Maple Hill and Redwood Hill Farm are often found in organic markets, health food stores, or online retailers.

Yes, plain kefir is very versatile and can be used as a substitute for buttermilk or yogurt in recipes like pancakes, baked goods, or creamy sauces. The heat can, however, reduce the probiotic content.

Check for 'live and active cultures' and the total CFU count to ensure high probiotic content. Opt for organic and low-sugar options, and read the ingredient list to avoid unnecessary additives like gums and artificial sweeteners.