Can my kefir grains be saved?

[chaoticzenmom]

I stored my kefir grains in raw milk in the fridge for maybe 3 weeks. When I opened the jar yesterday, it smelled like rotten milk. Then, I rinsed the grains and put them into fresh, pasteurized milk. Today, it smells like rotten milk Does this mean that smelly bacteria has taken over? Is there anything I can do?
Thanks
Lisa

[dogmom327]

Odds are good they'll be okay eventually but it might take a few batches. Just put them in a small amount of raw milk and change them out every 24 hours for a few days (use the milk for cooking if it seems like it's okay which it should be). After 3 weeks of cold, they are likely in deep hibernation mode and just need some time to come back.

[MyLittleWarrior]

I accidentally left my grains in milk on the counter for about 3 days. Usually I change out every 24 hrs. I thought all was lost because when I changed them to fresh milk it didn't thicken in 24 hrs like usual. I put them through 3-4 cycles, and now they're back on track. I'd give it several days before I gave up on them.