Kombucha FAQ

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea made from black (or green) tea, sugar, water, and a SCOBY (Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast). The SCOBY metabolizes the sugar and caffeine during fermentation, creating a slightly effervescent drink with naturally occurring probiotics that may help support gut health.

Is Kombucha good for me?

Kombucha tastes amazing — and it might also be good for you! Having been consumed for centuries, kombucha is often said to support digestion, candida balance, and mood stability. While these claims are largely anecdotal and not substantiated by clinical research, many people report improved digestive health and enjoy kombucha as a functional beverage.

How will Kombucha improve my health?

Although not supported by scientific studies, people who regularly drink kombucha have anecdotally reported benefits such as:

• Improved digestion

• Increased energy

• Better sleep

• Stabilized blood sugar levels

• Reduced menstrual discomfort

• Fewer colds

• Relief from arthritic pain

• Improved memory and mood

How much Kombucha should I drink?

• For general probiotic benefits: ½ bottle per day

• For digestive recovery after antibiotics: 1 full bottle per day

• General guideline: 200–330 ml daily

It’s best to start with smaller amounts and gradually increase. If you have a weakened immune system or pre-existing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before regular consumption.

Is there alcohol in Kombucha?

Yes, but very little. Kombucha contains about the same amount of alcohol as yogurt, sauerkraut, or sourdough bread — typically between 0.5% and 1%. Alcohol levels can increase if the kombucha is left unrefrigerated for extended periods.

Is Kombucha safe for recovering alcoholics?

Kombucha does contain small amounts of alcohol, which may be mildly relaxing. Some people in recovery report reduced alcohol cravings when drinking kombucha. However, alcohol content can exceed 1% as the beverage ages, and even small amounts of alcohol may be problematic. Recovering alcoholics should consult a healthcare professional before consuming kombucha.

Can I drink Kombucha while pregnant or nursing?

Some healthcare professionals recommend avoiding raw or unpasteurised foods during pregnancy. We suggest not drinking kombucha while pregnant or nursing and recommend consulting your healthcare provider.

How much sugar is in Kombucha?

Most of the sugar used in brewing is consumed during fermentation and converted into beneficial acids and enzymes. Some residual sugar remains. Caffeine levels also decrease during fermentation.

For reduced caffeine:

• Use decaffeinated tea

• Or steep regular tea once for 5 minutes, discard the water, and use the second steep

What about diabetic people?

Diabetics should be mindful of residual sugar in kombucha and monitor blood sugar levels. Brewing with lower sugar content or using alternatives such as agave nectar may be preferable.

Do you sell the SCOBY?

We don’t sell SCOBYs directly, but RDK-tea contains live culture and can be used as a starter. Simply use one bottle in your first brew and your own SCOBY will grow naturally.

Why is my kombucha flat or different from the last bottle?

Our kombuchas are craft-brewed, so fizz levels naturally vary. For more carbonation, leave the bottle at room temperature (for example, on a windowsill) for one day, then refrigerate again.

What does Kombucha taste like?

Kombucha is often compared to cider or a light wine, with a refreshing sweet-and-sour flavor. Fresh batches are lightly bubbly, and carbonation can increase when bottled and refrigerated. You can flavor kombucha with ginger, herbal teas, or juices. Heating the drink destroys beneficial enzymes but retains the organic acids.

What’s the shelf life of Kombucha?

• After brewing: 7–14 days (depending on temperature)

• Refrigerated at 5°C: 2–3 months (fizz may decrease)

• Refrigerated at 2–4°C: up to 6–7 months

Without refrigeration, kombucha will continue fermenting and eventually become too sour to drink.

How long before I notice benefits?

Some people report immediate effects, while for others it may take up to three months. Changes tend to be gradual as the body detoxifies and balances its pH.

What’s the deal with fermented foods?

Fermented foods introduce beneficial bacteria into the digestive system. Like yogurt, kefir, miso, and tempeh, kombucha provides probiotics, which may support digestion, immune function, and overall health.

NOTE:
Kombucha is a functional food product and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease.