Storing extra milk kefir grains

[martaluna]

If you are making your own milk kefir grains, how are you storing the extra kefir grains? I ust put about 2tbs in a pint size jar filled with milk into the fridge for few weeks. Now I think I left it for too long. How do I know if they are stil "alive"? What is the proper procedure for this?

Also, how should I go about storing them for longer time, like freezing? I do not have dehydrator.

Thanks!

[gardenmommy]

When I have to keep them in the fridge for an extended period of time, I usually revive them by putting them in a jar of fresh milk like normal, and leave it for at least 24 hours.  Usually, that first batch isn't very good, but the second batch is just fine.  When I have extra grains like that, I put them in a ziplock bag and freeze them.  I usually do 1 cup grains and 1 cup milk in each bag.  They seem to thaw just fine.