Lifeway Kefir

Lifeway Kefir is a leading probiotic dairy product originally founded in the United States by Michael Smolyansky, a Soviet immigrant who introduced the traditional Eastern European cultured milk drink to the American market in 1986. The brand is credited with popularizing kefir in North America, focusing on the health benefits of its 12 live and active probiotic cultures.

Today, Lifeway Foods, Inc. remains a publicly traded company that oversees its own manufacturing, primarily through facilities in Illinois and Wisconsin. While it operates as an independent entity, the French dairy giant Danone (Groupe Danone) has historically held a significant minority stake in the company, though ultimate operational control resides with the Smolyansky family as of current 2024-2026 outlooks.

The product is widely recognized for its high protein and calcium content, and it is produced using milk sourced from regional dairy farms, ensuring its status as a staple in the functional beverage and health food sectors.