| Cover | Nov. 20, 2024 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 20, 2024 |
| Entity File Number | 000-17363 |
| Entity Registrant Name | LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000814586 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 36-3442829 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | IL |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6431 Oakton Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Morton Grove |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60053 |
| City Area Code | (847) |
| Local Phone Number | 967-1010 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Trading Symbol | LWAY |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Common Stock No Par Value [Member] | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, no par value |
| Preferred Stock Purchase Rights [Member] | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Preferred Stock Purchase Rights |
