Dear Rabbi Simon
My cousin gave me some kefir grains that he had been using with regular milk.
1. Any issue re kefir grains kashrut?
2. If we now use them with kosher supervised milk will the kefir we produce be chalav Yisrael ? Or is it (the same as with yogurt) forever chalav stam?
Many thanks,
Malka
Dear Malka
Thank you for your trendy kosher question. Kefir is gradually gaining in popularity, and kosher versions (commercial production) are now available. However, the kefir grains in general circulation cannot be presumed to be kosher and should not be used.
However, one can acquire kefir grains from a kosher source in Israel. Ruthie has some and I can ask her if she has any spare.
I hope you can source ample probiotics all the same.
Best wishes
Rabbi Rashi Simon