Lifeway Foods unveils new cultured dairy innovations at Expo West 2026

USA – Lifeway Foods has introduced its latest cultured dairy innovations, Muscle Mates and Probiotic Kefir Butter, at Natural Products Expo West 2026 as the brand celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Leading the new lineup is Lifeway Muscle Mates, a lactose-free, 8oz ready-to-drink functional beverage that combines 20 grams of protein, 5 grams of creatine, and 12 live and active probiotic cultures.

Built to support strength, recovery and gut health, Muscle Mates is designed for pre-workout fuel, post-workout recovery or everyday wellness.

The line will roll out in grocery stores, fitness centres and select retailers nationwide, meeting growing consumer demand for performance-driven, functional beverages.

Also featured is Lifeway Kefir Butter, a probiotic, cultured butter available in Unsalted, Sea Salt and Honey Butter varieties Low in lactose and made with Lifeway’s signature kefir cultures, this butter is crafted for depth of flavor and a silky finish, shining in everything from everyday cooking to final, chef-style touches.

Drawing on decades of cultured dairy expertise through its subsidiary Fresh Made, Probiotic Kefir Butter pairs indulgent flavor with functional nutrition, answering consumer demand for premium butter that excels in taste, texture and versatility.

Julie Smolyansky, President and CEO of Lifeway Foods, said, “For 40 years, Lifeway has been driven by a passion for cultured dairy and the powerful role it plays in modern wellness. As consumer demand for protein, probiotics and fermented foods continues to rise, the cultured dairy category has grown into a multi-billion-dollar global market projected to exceed US$75 billion over the next decade.

“That momentum pushes us to keep raising the bar, especially as the newly released Dietary Guidelines shine a spotlight on the nutritional importance of cultured dairy. From our category-defining kefir and versatile farmer cheese to performance-focused beverages and cultured butter, this next wave of innovation brings together nutrition, flavor and excitement in a way only Lifeway can, starting at Expo West 2026.”

The company reported US$57.1 million in net sales, a 29% volume-led net sales increase on a comparable basis, driven by the Company’s flagship Lifeway Kefir Q3 2025.

Gross Profit Margin was 28.7%, up from 25.7%. Selling Expense was 8.8% of net sales, slightly up from last year, reflecting continued investment in marketing and distribution.

Net Income was US$3.5 million, or $0.23 per basic and diluted common share, compared to US$3.0 million, or $0.20 per basic and $0.19 per diluted share in the prior year.

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