Lifeway

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Common questions

Is Lifeway healthy?

Lifeway scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This kefir product contains beneficial ingredients such as live and active cultures, vitamin A palmitate, and vitamin D3, which support gut health, vision, and bone health.

How processed is Lifeway?

Lifeway is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Lifeway's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Vitamin D3, Live and active cultures count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Lifeway

Lifeway
60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

$3.66 · 32 oz · $0.11 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Danone
Category Kefir
Summary

This kefir product contains beneficial ingredients such as live and active cultures, vitamin A palmitate, and vitamin D3, which support gut health, vision, and bone health. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the presence of additives like pectin and the use of pasteurized nonfat milk, which limits its potential health score. Despite the beneficial nutrients, the level of processing prevents it from achieving a higher rating.

Key ingredients 5

Live and active cultures
Very Good

Live and active cultures are beneficial probiotics that support gut health and digestion. They help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can improve immune function. Regular consumption can enhance digestive health and nutrient absorption.

Benefits

Promotes gut health by supporting a healthy microbiome and can improve digestion and immune function.

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Vitamin D3
Good

Vitamin D3 is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health, often added to dairy products to enhance nutritional value. It is particularly important in regions with limited sunlight exposure. Fortification helps prevent deficiencies and supports overall health.

Benefits

Supports bone health by enhancing calcium absorption and plays a role in immune function.

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Pasteurized nonfat milk
Neutral

Pasteurized nonfat milk is a common base for dairy products, providing protein and calcium. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. However, it lacks the beneficial fats found in whole milk.

Benefits

Provides a source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Pectin
Neutral

Pectin is a natural thickening agent derived from fruits, commonly used to stabilize dairy products. It is generally considered safe and has minimal impact on health. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

May aid in digestion by acting as a soluble fiber, though its impact is minimal in small quantities.

See more about Pectin →
Vitamin A palmitate
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypervitaminosis A, but this risk is low when consumed in fortified foods.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function, and supports skin health.

See more about Vitamin A palmitate →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

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