Lifeway Foods, Inc., a US supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products to support the microbiome, announced its latest functional beverage innovation: Probiotic Smoothie + Collagen made with kefir cultures. Available in four flavors – Matcha Latte, Berry Blast, Tropical Fruit, and Plain – the new line features 5g of collagen in each serving and is lactose-free, as consumer demand for lactose-free dairy products is predicted to grow over the next five years.
Research shows that gut and skin health are interconnected through a two-way communication system known as the gut-skin axis, which plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. The new Probiotic Smoothie + Collagen line supports this important axis through Lifeway's unique combination of its 12 live and active cultures, 25-30 billion beneficial CFUs (Colony Forming Units) plus 5g of collagen per serving, which may help support skin hydration, elasticity, smoothness and joint health. This fermented beverage also helps to support a healthy microbiome. Kefir naturally provides high-quality bioavailable nutrients such as Vitamins A, B, and D, as well as protein and essential fatty acids, all of which are crucial to healthy skin cell production.
This will be the first probiotic collagen smoothie with kefir cultures to hit the market, offering consumers an innovative new product to support their skin and gut health. Lifeway Foods has been developing this specific product since 2021 and is excited to launch the innovation as part of the brand's New Year New You Campaign for 2025. The groundbreaking line will begin shipping in December and will hit shelves nationwide at select independent and specialty stores by the end of the year.