Lifeway Foods has commenced production of probiotic fermented beverage kefir at its new plant in Waukesha, Wisconsin.

The company acquired the former Golden Guernsey dairy plant in May 2013 to ramp up its manufacturing capacity.

With over 40 employees, the Waukesha plant with high-speed manufacturing equipment is expected to more than quintuple the combined kefir manufacturing capacity of Lifeway's three existing facilities.

Lifeway Foods president and CEO Julie Smolyanksy said: "Renovating the building to meet our specific manufacturing and packaging needs has been a top priority, and the start of kefir production in Waukesha is an important milestone that will help drive the next chapter in the company's growth."

The plant has been processing raw milk and producing Lifeway's own bottles for more than a year.

Besides drinkable kefir, Lifeway Foods also produces frozen kefir, specialty cheeses and a ProBugs line for kids.