Lifeway Foods Brings Kefir to Soft-Serve Machines

The company is rolling out a new kefir-based soft-serve product in select cities across the United States.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Organic Food

Lifeway Foods Brings Kefir to Soft-Serve Machines

Live Poll

Would you choose soft-serve desserts made with real kefir over traditional powdered frozen yogurt?

Lifeway Foods has introduced a new kefir-based soft-serve product designed specifically for use in commercial machines. This product is now available at select locations in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Why it matters

The product aims to appeal to consumers who are prioritizing real ingredients and protein-forward options in their diets. By utilizing real kefir instead of a powdered mix, the company is targeting the growing market for functional snacks.

The new soft-serve product features a formulation containing 50 billion CFUs per serving. It is made using real kefir as the primary ingredient rather than traditional powdered mixes.

The players

Lifeway Foods

This company is a manufacturer specializing in probiotic-rich dairy products and functional foods.

Drugstore

This is a foodservice location currently offering the new kefir soft-serve product.

Mikono

This is a foodservice location currently offering the new kefir soft-serve product.

Culture Club

This is a foodservice location currently offering the new kefir soft-serve product.

The details

Lifeway Foods is partnering with foodservice venues such as Drugstore, Mikono, and Culture Club to feature the soft serve on their menus. This initiative follows the company's previous retail experience, including the operation and eventual closure of four Lifeway Kefir Shop locations.

2008: Lifeway introduced the Starfruit Cafe in Chicago.
2021: Lifeway closed its retail shops after 13 years of operation.
October 2026: Lifeway kefir soft serve is deployed in commercial machines.

Culture Shift

The launch of this product follows the established industry pattern of adapting traditional treats to meet the growing consumer demand for functional, protein-forward ingredients. This trend reflects a broader move away from standard sugar-heavy desserts toward options with perceived health benefits.

Consumers in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles can now purchase the product directly at participating foodservice locations. Availability is limited to specific partner venues, so customers should check local menus for current offerings.

The takeaway

This development allows consumers to incorporate probiotic-rich foods into their treat-focused dining habits. For those seeking functional desserts, checking menus at specific urban locations is currently the only way to access this new offering.