#Lifeway Foods #Probiotics #Kefir

Lifeway Foods Pushes Forward with Waukesha Expansion

Lifeway Foods, Inc., a leading company in the realm of kefir and probiotic products, is taking significant strides in its growth strategy through a remarkable expansion of its production capabilities in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Announced recently, this strategic endeavor is set to significantly boost the company’s output and solidify its position as a frontrunner in the functional dairy sector.

Stage One of the Expansion is Complete

The initial phase of this multi-million dollar expansion has officially been completed, marking a crucial milestone for Lifeway. This investment is anticipated to double the production capacity at their Waukesha facility, translating into a more robust supply chain to cater to the increasing demand for their products. Currently, Lifeway utilizes an impressive 100 million pounds of Wisconsin milk each year to create their renowned kefir, a fermented beverage packed with probiotics beneficial for gut health.

The fermentation process transforms milk by utilizing live kefir grains that comprise a mix of bacteria and yeasts. This delicate balance allows lactose to ferment naturally, yielding a tangy, nutrient-rich drink that is rich in live cultures beneficial for the microbiome.

In this inaugural phase, Lifeway has increased its fermentation capacity by adding numerous fermentation tanks that will expedite the mixing of raw milk with the live cultures necessary for kefir production. This expansion is not only a win for Lifeway but also a significant boost for local dairy farmers and the broader Wisconsin dairy economy, fostering employment and supporting regional agricultural initiatives.

Looking Ahead: Three More Stages to Come

Even with the first stage completed, Lifeway has ambitious plans. Three additional stages of the expansion are already in progress and are expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of 2026. Completion of these phases will allow Lifeway to sustain the notable growth it has seen lately, further enhancing its production capacity and community impact.

CEO Julie Smolyansky expressed optimism about Lifeway’s trajectory, stating,