Lifeway Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ:LWAY) is a leading producer of cultured dairy and probiotic products, with a primary focus on kefir—a fermented milk beverage rich in live and active cultures. Founded in 1986 by Michael Smolyansky, a Ukrainian immigrant who sought to introduce kefir’s digestive benefits to the American market, the company has since expanded its product line to include farmers cheese, probiotic smoothies, and a variety of functional foods designed to support digestive and immune health. Lifeway operates multiple production facilities, including its headquarters and manufacturing plant in Morton Grove, Illinois, as well as additional facilities that support distribution across North America and overseas markets.
The company’s flagship Lifeway® Kefir brand offers both traditional and innovative flavors, catering to health-conscious consumers and specialty retailers. In recent years, Lifeway has introduced lower-fat and dairy-free formulations to address evolving dietary trends, while also expanding its presence in the natural and organic sections of major grocery chains. Lifeway Foods maintains strategic partnerships with retail distributors, natural health stores, and foodservice providers, ensuring its products are widely available from coast to coast in the United States and in key export markets across Europe and Asia.
Throughout its history, Lifeway Foods has remained committed to research and development, collaborating with universities and clinical institutions to explore the health benefits of probiotics and fermented foods. The company’s quality assurance programs adhere to stringent safety and regulatory standards, reflecting its dedication to product consistency and consumer trust. Lifeway’s product development pipeline continues to focus on functional nutrition, with plans to introduce new probiotic offerings and expand its dairy-based portfolio to meet emerging consumer preferences.
Lifeway Foods is led by a seasoned executive team with deep roots in the company’s founding family. Julie Smolyansky, daughter of the founder, has served as Chief Executive Officer, guiding Lifeway through significant growth phases and international expansion. Under her leadership, the company has reinforced its commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and nutritional education. Lifeway Foods remains headquartered in Morton Grove, Illinois, where it continues to drive innovation in the cultured foods industry and uphold its legacy of delivering probiotic-rich products that support healthy lifestyles.
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