# Debate over kefir health claims in Italy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/debate-over-kefir-health-claims-in-italy > Updated: 2026-09-16T06:00:14.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. In Italy, the popularity of kefir has surged, with sales increasing by more than 51% according to a Coop report. This rise in consumption has prompted scientific debate regarding the drink’s purported health benefits. Medical experts have cautioned against viewing kefir as a “miracle cure” or a key to longevity. Matteo Bassetti, director of infectious diseases at San Martino Hospital, noted that while kefir may partially modify intestinal microbiota, human studies remain scarce and heterogeneous. He emphasized that a varied diet and healthy lifestyle are more significant than any single food item. Similarly, Professor Silvio Garattini of the Mario Negri Institute stated that longevity involves complex factors like physical exercise and social relationships rather than a single food. Laboratory analyses have also provided nuance to the probiotic debate, showing that while kefir contains high concentrations of streptococci, lactococci, and lactobacilli, it possesses lower concentrations of bifidobacteria compared to Greek yogurt. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: Kefir popularity surges in Italy amid debate over health claims Despite a 51% surge in kefir sales in Italy, experts warn it is not a longevity miracle, while lab tests show varying probiotic levels compared to yogurt and skyr. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kefir-popularity-surges-in-italy-amid-debate-over-health-claims ### 2026-09-11: Matteo Bassetti evaluates scientific evidence regarding kefir benefits Infectious disease expert Matteo Bassetti clarifies that while kefir is a healthy fermented milk, scientific evidence is insufficient to label it a superfood or a treatment for specific medical conditions. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/matteo-bassetti-evaluates-scientific-evidence-regarding-kefir-benefits --- Cite as: Debate over kefir health claims in Italy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/debate-over-kefir-health-claims-in-italy