Topics:
Animal Refresher, Dairy Science
Facts About Kefir
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Question (English)
Which of the following is/are true about Kefir?
- All the above ✓ Correct
- It is a self-carbonated milk beverage containing 1% lactic acid & 1% alcohol only
- Fermenting agents for Kefir are known as Kefir grains only
- Kefir grains contain Str. lactis, Kefir bacilli & lactose fermenting yeast only
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All the above
All three statements about Kefir are correct:
- Self-carbonated milk beverage: Kefir is self-carbonated due to CO₂ produced by yeast fermentation. It contains 1% lactic acid (from bacterial fermentation) and 1% alcohol (from yeast fermentation of lactose).
- Kefir grains: The unique fermenting agents used in Kefir production. Kefir grains are irregular, rubbery, white/yellow granules containing a symbiotic community of microorganisms embedded in a polysaccharide-protein matrix.
- Microbial composition of Kefir grains: Contains Streptococcus lactis (lactic acid bacteria), Kefir bacilli (lactobacillus species), and lactose-fermenting yeasts. This mixed culture produces both lactic acid and alcohol simultaneously.
Kefir vs. Kumiss — Key Differences
- Kefir: 1% alcohol; any milk; self-carbonated; uses Kefir grains.
- Kumiss: 2.5% alcohol; originally only mare's milk; fermented by L. acidophilus.
Both are lactic acid-alcohol fermented beverages.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Dairy Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
