Plain kefir

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Common questions

Is Plain kefir healthy?

Plain kefir scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This plain kefir is made from pasteurized lowfat milk and nonfat milk, which are good sources of calcium and protein.

How processed is Plain kefir?

Plain kefir is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Plain kefir's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pasteurized lowfat milk, Vitamin D3, 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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Plain kefir

75 Good

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

$4.59 · 32 oz · $0.14 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Kefir
Summary

This plain kefir is made from pasteurized lowfat milk and nonfat milk, which are good sources of calcium and protein. It contains beneficial cultures that promote gut health and enhance the nutritional profile. The product is processed, which limits its score, but it maintains a clean ingredient list without harmful additives.

Key ingredients 6

Pasteurized lowfat milk
Good

Pasteurized lowfat milk is a primary source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance. The pasteurization process ensures safety by eliminating harmful bacteria. It is a versatile ingredient that provides a base for cultured dairy products.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and phosphorus.

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Vitamin D3
Good

Vitamin D3 is essential 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 in the general population.

Benefits

Enhances calcium absorption and supports bone health. Helps prevent vitamin D deficiency.

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Cultures
Good

Cultures are beneficial bacteria used in fermentation, promoting gut health and enhancing the nutritional profile of dairy products. They help in the digestion of lactose and improve the bioavailability of nutrients. Fermented products with live cultures can support a healthy microbiome.

Benefits

Promotes gut health and aids in digestion. Enhances the nutritional profile of dairy products.

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Nonfat milk
Neutral

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

Benefits

Provides calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health. Suitable for low-fat diets while maintaining essential nutrients.

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Pectin
Neutral

Pectin is a natural thickening agent derived from fruits, commonly used to improve texture in dairy products. It is considered safe and is often used in small quantities. Pectin does not contribute significant nutritional value but aids in product consistency.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency in food products. Derived from natural fruit sources.

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Vitamin A palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is a synthetic form of vitamin A used to fortify foods, supporting vision and immune function. It is added to compensate for vitamin loss during processing. While beneficial in small amounts, excessive intake can lead to toxicity.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to vitamin A toxicity, but typical food fortification levels are safe.

Benefits

Supports vision and immune function when consumed in appropriate amounts.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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