What are the nutritional properties of kumis?
Kumis (koumiss) is fermented mare's milk. A scientific review reports roughly 1.8 to 2.3% protein, 0.6 to 2.2% fat and 2.6 to 4.3% lactose, with alcohol that varies widely with fermentation (reported 0.6 to 13.7%). Figures vary a lot from batch to batch.
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In this article
What is kumis?
Kumis, also spelled koumiss or kumys, is a traditional fermented drink of Central Asia made from mare’s milk. Traditional natural fermentation runs one to three days at ambient temperature, according to a 2023 review, and the result varies from batch to batch.
Reported composition
| Component | Reported range (review) |
|---|---|
| Protein | 1.80 to 2.26% |
| Fat | 0.60 to 2.20% |
| Lactose | 2.58 to 4.30% |
| Ethanol | 0.60 to 13.68% |
| Lactic acid | 0.70 to 9.00% |
| Total solids | 10.6 to 11.3% |
The wide ranges show that kumis is not a standard product. Use these as a guide, not a label.
What stands out nutritionally
- Protein type: whey makes up about 40% of mare’s milk protein, and the review says whey rather than casein is the main protein in kumis.
- Fat: reported at about 0.6 to 2.2%.
- Calcium and phosphorus: a ratio of about 2 to 1, similar to human milk.
- Lactose: fermentation turns part of the lactose into other compounds such as lactic acid and alcohol. The review suggests compounds formed from lactose could benefit lactose-intolerant people, but it cites no direct human study, so do not assume it is lactose-free.
Alcohol
Kumis is a mildly alcoholic drink; the amount depends on fermentation. Pregnant women, children, drivers and anyone avoiding alcohol should treat it as an alcoholic drink.
Limits of the evidence
The review says the health benefits are supported only by limited animal testing, and calls for more work on allergies, intolerances and contraindications. It also notes that fresh mare milk contained potentially pathogenic bacteria and that low-abundance ones may persist in koumiss. Shelf life is short, about 3 to 5 days.
General information only, not medical advice.
People also ask
How much protein is in kumis?
A review reports about 1.8 to 2.3% protein, with whey making up a large share.
Does kumis contain alcohol?
Yes, a little. Alcohol depends on fermentation time and varies widely between batches.
Is kumis good for lactose intolerance?
Fermentation converts some lactose, but the review cites no direct human evidence that it is suitable for lactose intolerance. Ask a health professional.
Sources
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