Kefir, the new fermented drink, has arrived at Maltese
With the non-alcoholic trend growing stronger and a great desire for collective well-being, the world of fermented drinks… is bubbling! And we at Maltese.beer, who have believed in it for a long time, have a new star for our Healthy section, full of flavor and benefits: water kefir.
Also known as tibicos, it is a natural probiotic drink, sparkling and with a completely negligible alcohol content, perfect for those looking for a healthy and refreshing alternative to traditional soft drinks.
Made from water, sugar, and special kefir grains (a symbiotic culture of yeasts and bacteria), water kefir can be flavored in many ways: with ginger, lemon, spices, fruit, herbs, and much more. The result is a surprising drink, with a fresh and light taste, appreciated not only for its flavor but also for its effects on the body.
A bit of history: the origins of kefir
The origins of kefir are lost among legends and ancient traditions.
Milk kefir is historically linked to the populations of the Caucasus, where it was produced many centuries ago with goat or sheep milk, stored and fermented in leather bags. Kefir grains were considered a sacred gift from Allah and passed down from generation to generation.
Water kefir, on the other hand, has less documented and more recent but equally fascinating origins: according to some theories, it was born in Mexico, where the so-called tibicos were spontaneously collected on the leaves of Opuntia cactus and used to ferment sweetened water.
Two different stories, one philosophy: ferment to preserve, nourish, and regenerate.
Water kefir or milk kefir? Here are the differences
Many wonder what the differences between water kefir and milk kefir are, and which choice is best suited to their needs. The main distinction lies in the fermentation base: while the latter is made from fresh milk, water kefir is prepared starting from water and a natural sweetener, often simple sugar.
The grains used are also different: those of milk kefir, called kefiran, are denser and milky, while those of water kefir, known as tibicos, have a transparent appearance and a gelatinous texture.
From the point of view of live cultures, milk kefir is richer (up to 30 species), but water kefir also contains plenty (between 10 and 15), with a good variety of beneficial bacteria and yeasts.
Another key point concerns the calorie content: water kefir is definitely lighter, with about 20 calories per 100 ml, and is naturally free of lactose and gluten, making it suitable also for vegans, celiacs, and intolerant individuals.
Water kefir: benefits, properties, and contraindications
Water kefir is much more than a trendy drink: it is a true concentrate of beneficial properties for the body. Rich in probiotics, vitamins, and minerals, it helps to:
Obviously, as with any functional food, it is important not to overdo it: although it does not present particular side effects, excessive consumption could cause some abdominal cramps or constipation in more sensitive people. In case of doubt, it is better to start with small doses and observe your body's response.
When to drink it?
The answer is simple: best in the morning, on an empty stomach, so it can reactivate the intestine and supplement the daily diet with many valuable micronutrients, to start the day with energy. But also as a practically non-alcoholic alternative during a healthy aperitif or in the afternoon as a refreshing and functional drink!
Discover water kefir now at Maltese
Whether you are looking for a new healthy habit, an alternative non-alcoholic drink, or simply something tasty to enjoy, water kefir is a smart choice. Fresh, natural, fermented, it is now available in our shop!
Try it today thanks to the friends at TIBI and let yourself be surprised by its taste and benefits.
