Finding L. reuteri yogurt can be challenging, as the potent, 36-hour cultured version is not a mass-market product. The best and most common path is to make it yourself using a specific starter culture. While some specialized companies sell pre-made versions, they are less common and often require online ordering. This article explores both avenues, providing resources for buying starter cultures and highlighting the key differences between homemade and traditional yogurt.
The Homemade Path: Your Most Potent Option
For those serious about achieving the high bacterial counts, making L. reuteri yogurt at home is the recommended route. This process requires specific starter cultures and a low-temperature, long fermentation time, typically around 36 hours at 100°F (38°C).
What You Need to Get Started
To create your own high-potency L. reuteri yogurt, you will need a few key ingredients and pieces of equipment:
- Starter Culture: Look for specialized starters designed for L. reuteri fermentation. Many are sold online and feature strains like L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 and DSM 17938. Some people use crushed BioGaia Gastrus or Osfortis tablets for their first batch, though dedicated starters are more consistent.
- Prebiotic Fiber: This is essential for feeding the bacteria and achieving high probiotic counts. Common choices include inulin powder or organic potato starch.
- Milk Source: Whole milk or half-and-half is often recommended for a thick, creamy consistency. Ultra-pasteurized dairy is also an option, simplifying the heating process.
- Yogurt Maker or Incubator: A device that can maintain a precise and constant temperature of around 100°F for 36 hours is critical. Programmable yogurt makers, Instant Pots with a yogurt function, or sous vide machines can all work.
Where to Buy L. reuteri Starter Culture
Several online retailers specialize in fermentation supplies and are the best sources for L. reuteri starter cultures:
- Cultured Food Life: Sells
LR Superfood Yogurt Starter. - Cutting Edge Cultures: This company offers a single-strain
L. Reuteri Superfoodstarter known for producing high bacterial counts. - Luvele: An Australian and US-based company that provides both starter cultures and the specialized yogurt makers needed for long, low-temperature fermentation.
- Amazon: You can often find starter cultures from various brands on Amazon, such as Coolinario. Additionally, prebiotic fiber (inulin or potato starch) is readily available on this platform.
Store-Bought L. reuteri Yogurt Options
While the homemade version is the most potent, a few options exist for purchasing pre-made L. reuteri yogurt, though they are much less common.
Online and Specialized Shops
Some specialty health food vendors or online shops offer finished L. reuteri yogurt. These products are usually made-to-order and often carry a higher price tag. Brands like B+ Naturals sell pre-made versions, and you might find them on country-specific online marketplaces like Daraz in Pakistan.
Historically Available Retail Options
At various times, certain brands have offered products containing L. reuteri, though these are typically not the high-potency, long-fermented products people associate with the 'Super Gut' protocol. For instance, Stonyfield Farm reportedly offered a U.S. yogurt containing L. reuteri at one point, but product availability and bacterial counts can vary significantly from the therapeutic homemade versions. Always read labels carefully to understand the specific strains and CFU count.
Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought L. reuteri Yogurt
| Feature | Homemade L. reuteri Yogurt | Store-Bought L. reuteri Product |
|---|---|---|
| Potency (CFU) | Extremely high (trillions per batch) due to long fermentation. | Variable; typically lower counts and not from a 36-hour fermentation. |
| Availability | Requires purchasing starter cultures and supplies, widely available online. | Very limited; requires searching specialized online vendors or local health food stores. |
| Customization | Complete control over milk type (dairy, coconut), fiber, and other ingredients. | None. You rely on the manufacturer's formula. |
| Consistency | Can be thick and creamy, or separate into curds and whey, which is normal. | Generally consistent, like commercial yogurt. |
| Cost | High initial investment in equipment, but much lower cost per serving over time. | High cost per serving, especially from specialty providers. |
Conclusion
For those specifically seeking a high-potency L. reuteri yogurt, the DIY, homemade approach is the most effective and reliable method. While it requires an initial investment in specialized equipment and starter cultures, it offers unparalleled bacterial counts and control over ingredients. The limited store-bought options available are typically less potent and should not be confused with the long-fermented versions. Check reputable online retailers for starter cultures and equipment to begin your homemade fermentation journey. For reliable, up-to-date instructions on making your own, resources from reputable vendors are the best starting point. Find equipment and cultures at sites like Cultures for Health. [https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/recipe/l-reuteri-superfood-yogurt/]
