New to water kefir? We've answered 29 of the most common questions, from how to make water kefir and care for your grains to getting the perfect fizz. Our Water Kefir Starter Kit contains everything you need to get brewing.
Understanding Water Kefir
What is water kefir?
Water kefir is a naturally fermented, lightly sparkling drink made using water kefir grains, sugar, and water. During fermentation, beneficial bacteria and yeasts consume much of the sugar, creating a refreshing probiotic beverage with a tangy flavour and natural fizz.
Is water kefir the same as milk kefir?
No. Water kefir is dairy-free and made with sugar water, fruit, or juice, while milk kefir is made by fermenting dairy milk with different types of kefir grains. Water kefir has a lighter, cleaner taste and is suitable for vegans and those avoiding dairy.
What are water kefir grains?
Water kefir grains are not actual grains like wheat or rice. They are translucent clusters of beneficial bacteria and yeast that work together to ferment sugar water. With proper care, they can be reused indefinitely.
Does water kefir contain probiotics?
Yes. Water kefir contains a variety of beneficial microorganisms created during fermentation. The exact strains can vary depending on the grains, ingredients, and brewing conditions.
Is water kefir good for gut health?
Many people enjoy water kefir as part of a gut-friendly lifestyle because it contains live cultures produced through fermentation.
Is water kefir suitable for vegans?
Yes. Traditional water kefir is naturally dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
Does water kefir contain alcohol?
Water kefir naturally produces very small amounts of alcohol as part of the fermentation process. In most home-brewed and commercially produced water kefir, the alcohol content is typically very low—often around 0.5% ABV or less, depending on the recipe and fermentation time. For comparison, many everyday foods such as ripe bananas, fruit juices, sourdough bread, and other fermented foods can also contain trace amounts of naturally occurring alcohol.
How much sugar is left in water kefir?
The amount varies depending on fermentation time, temperature, and recipe. Longer fermentations generally result in less residual sugar.
Dehydrated Water Kefir Grains
What are dehydrated water kefir grains?
Dehydrated water kefir grains are dormant cultures of beneficial bacteria and yeast that have been dried for storage and shipping. Once rehydrated, they become active and can be used to make water kefir repeatedly.
How long does it take to rehydrate dehydrated water kefir grains?
Most dehydrated grains take around 3–5 days to rehydrate and become active, although cooler temperatures may extend this process. Watch our how to videos here.
How do I know if my grains have rehydrated successfully?
Healthy grains typically become plumper, more translucent, and begin fermenting sugar water. It may take several brewing cycles before they perform at their best.
How long can dehydrated water kefir grains be stored before activation?
Properly dried grains can have a long shelf life when stored in a cool, dry place. For best results, most suppliers recommend using them within 1–2 years.
Brewing Water Kefir
How do you make water kefir?
Combine water kefir grains with water and sugar, then leave the mixture to ferment for 24–48 hours at room temperature. After straining out the grains, the liquid can be bottled as-is or fermented again with fruit, herbs, or juice for additional flavour and carbonation. Watch our how to videos here.
How long does it take to make water kefir?
The first fermentation usually takes 24–48 hours. If you choose to do a second fermentation for flavour and fizz, add another 1–3 days. Most batches are ready within 2–5 days.
How much kefir can I make?
A 5g pack typically rehydrates to around 30g of grains and makes approximately 200ml in the first batch. A 10g pack rehydrates to around 60g of grains and makes approximately 400ml in the first batch. Production increases as the grains multiply.
What type of water should I use?
Spring, or mineral water generally works best. Chlorine can inhibit the beneficial microorganisms in the grains. We do not recommend filtered tap water.
What sugar should I use?
Most cane sugars work well. Water kefir grains need real sugar as their food source. Some brewers also add small amounts of mineral-rich ingredients such as molasses to support grain health. Our Water Kefir Starter Kit contains everything you need to get brewing.
Can I use honey, stevia, or artificial sweeteners?
No. Water kefir grains require real sugar to survive and ferment properly.
Can beginners make water kefir at home?
Yes. Water kefir is one of the easiest fermented drinks to make at home and is suitable for beginners.
Carbonation & Flavouring
Why isn't my water kefir fizzy?
Lack of carbonation is usually caused by one or more of the following:
Newly activated grains
Insufficient second fermentation time
Bottles that are not airtight
Low room temperatures
Grains that need additional minerals or a few more brewing cycles
Most carbonation develops during the second fermentation in sealed bottles rather than during the first fermentation.
Can you flavour water kefir?
Yes. Popular flavour additions include lemon, ginger, berries, mango, pineapple, herbs, and fruit juices. Flavouring is usually added during the second fermentation, which can also increase carbonation.
Do the grains go into the second fermentation?
No. Strain the grains out after the first fermentation and use them to start your next batch. Only the liquid is bottled for flavouring and carbonation.
Caring for Your Grains
How often can I reuse water kefir grains?
Water kefir grains can be reused indefinitely when properly cared for. Simply transfer them into fresh sugar water after each batch.
Do water kefir grains multiply?
Yes. Healthy grains typically grow and multiply over time, allowing you to brew larger batches or share extras with others.
What should healthy water kefir grains look like?
Healthy grains are usually translucent to slightly cloudy, firm, and gelatinous. They can vary in size from tiny crystals to larger clusters.
My grains aren't producing bubbles. Are they dead?
Not necessarily. Newly rehydrated grains often need several batches before becoming fully active and producing consistent results.
Why are my grains shrinking or not multiplying?
This is commonly caused by mineral deficiencies, unsuitable water, temperature fluctuations, or grains that are still recovering from dehydration. Most grains improve after several healthy fermentation cycles.
How should I store my grains if I take a break from brewing?
Store them in sugar water in the refrigerator for short breaks. When you're ready to brew again, they may need a few batches to regain full activity.
Storage
How should water kefir be stored?
Once fermentation is complete, water kefir should be refrigerated. Chilling slows fermentation and helps preserve flavour and carbonation.