Kefir, Skyr, Ayran and yogurt – the list of dairy products is long. But what exactly are the differences and how does production affect them? We will now briefly and concisely explain how the different products differ.
How is kefir made?
A basic distinction is made between milk kefir and water kefir. However, we are now focusing on milk kefir, which is made from whey. Simply put, the whey is pre-digested through fermentation. This process is triggered by the so-called kefir microorganisms, which produce probiotic bacteria. Fermentation also breaks down the di- and tri-peptides and can therefore be more easily absorbed by the body.
By the way: Fermentation converts lactose into lactic acid. Therefore, kefir is also well tolerated by people with lactose sensitivity.
How is yogurt made?
Just like with kefir, lactic acid bacteria are added to the milk to make yoghurt. The ratio of lactic acid bacteria determines the type of yogurt. The individual composition is called yoghurt culture.
Fermentation also converts the milk sugar in yogurt into lactic acid. The acid gives the yoghurt its firm consistency and a sour aroma.
What is Skyr?
Since Skyr does not have to ripen, it is classified as cream cheese. Skyr is initially made from skimmed cow's milk, like yogurt. In the first step, heating kills microorganisms. Bacterial cultures are then added to the cooled milk, which, like kefir, also convert the lactose into lactic acid. Unlike with yogurt, the whey is now removed with the milk sugar. This means that skyr is very rich in protein and at the same time contains little fat and sugar. A real protein bomb.
What is Ayran made of?
Ayran is made from yogurt as well as water and salt. First, two parts of yogurt are whipped with one part of water until foamy. The Ayran is then seasoned with a little salt.
So what are the differences?
- Unlike yogurt, kefir cultures are added to kefir instead of lactic acid bacteria.
- In contrast to yogurt and kefir, skyr is first skimmed before lactic acid bacteria are added to it.
- In addition to yogurt, water and salt are also added to the ayran.
What makes fermented whey products special?
Kefir not only contains a lot of calcium , magnesium and phosphorus , but also a variety of vitamins . In addition, due to fermentation, it is very low in calories and rich in protein .
Like skyr and kefir, yogurt is also rich in calcium and protein and is therefore beneficial for your bones, teeth, muscles and nerves.
Fermented whey products can contribute to healthy intestinal flora and are therefore increasingly popular.
As you can see, all four products have a positive impact on your body. But you don't necessarily have to buy all products in the supermarket. Kefir, for example, is easy to make yourself. What do you need for this?
A fermentation jar like this:
>> KEFIRKO
and kefir grains :
Want it high in protein and fermented? Then try our Kefir Whey Protein