Is Kefir vegan?
Depends
Traditional kefir is fermented dairy. Water kefir and coconut kefir are vegan.
What it is
A fermented drink made by inoculating milk (or sugar water) with kefir grains.
Why depends
Milk kefir is dairy. Water kefir, coconut kefir and brands like Forager Project oat kefir are vegan.
Where you'll find it
- Probiotic drinks
- Smoothie bases
- Salad dressings
Vegan alternatives
- Water kefir
- Coconut kefir
- Cocojune
- Forager Project
FAQ
- Are kefir grains vegan?
- Yes — they are a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), not animal-derived.
Sources
Last reviewed June 4, 2026