FAQ
What is Kombucha?
Kombucha is a fermented tea passed down through centuries of Eastern tradition.
Where did Kombucha come from?
While there are many stories about the genesis of Kombucha, it is believed to have originated in East Asia around 221 BC. It is said that Emperor Qin Shi was the first to make and drink Kombucha.
There are reports that Kombucha was consumed by soldiers during times of war. As conflict brought together armies from several nations, including China, Korea, and Russia, warriors would exhange various items, including Kombucha cultures.
Over the last few decades, Kombucha has experienced a tremendous resurgence and growth, becoming incredibly popular in the United States, Canada, and throughout the Western world.
How is GT’s KOMBUCHA made?
Consistent with Eastern tradition, our Kombucha is authentically crafted with sweetened tea and a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, also known as a Mother culture). It is fermented for weeks. We never heat, pasteurize, or process our Kombucha, in order to ensure viability of the live cultures.
• We begin by brewing black tea and green tea, lightly sweetened with kiwi juice and a small amount of cane sugar (to feed the SCOBY, not you!)
• To that, we add a SCOBY (which looks like a slimy pancake) and let the brew ferment in a serene environment for a few weeks.
• During fermentation, the SCOBY feeds on the sugar and caffeine while releasing organic acids and CO2 which gives our Kombucha its signature tangy taste and natural effervescence.
• Before bottling, we craft unique flavors of GT’s KOMBUCHA by pairing our brew with raw ingredients: fruit and vegetable juices/purees, herbs, spices, and botanicals. We never add artificial colors or flavors.
Why should I drink Kombucha?
In ancient Eastern cultures, Kombucha was called the “Tea of Immortality.” Fully fermented Kombucha naturally yields live cultures, electrolytes, acetic acids, and active enzymes.
For those interested in integrating a variety of bacteria into their diet, Kombucha is a great natural alternative to probiotic pills and supplements, similar to other fermented foods: saukraut, kimchi, kefir, and cultured yogurt.
What does GT’s KOMBUCHA taste like?
Our Kombucha is known for its signature, tangy taste and natural effervescence – signs of successful fermentation! That’s why you’ll notice these qualities in all fermented foods, like miso, kimchi, cultured yogurt, and sourdough bread.
How will I feel after drinking GT’s KOMBUCHA?
Kombucha is known to make you feel revitalized. Each bottle of GT’s contains billions of living cultures. The naturally occurring effervescence may also help you feel full and satiated.
Here’s what some of our fans have to say:
I feel energized and actually feel like I crave healthier foods. Instead of having my afternoon plateau, I feel like I can keep going until the end of the day.
~ Madison D., Highland, IN
I just wanted to reach out and let you know how much I love your kombuchas! I have not gone a day without one in so long & I honestly get so happy each time I drink one! It is something I regularly crave that makes me feel good on the inside and out! I just wanted to give your company a shoutout and let you know how amazing your product is!!
~ Lindsey V., Rye, NY
I am just reaching out to say thank you for creating such an incredible and delicious product. Your trilogy booch has totally changed the way my body feels, my gut health and skin have completely changed since I’ve added it to my diet.
~ Hanna Adams, Vashon, WA
How much GT’s KOMBUCHA should I drink if I’m new to it?
Since everyone’s body is different, we recommend slowly introducing Kombucha into your regular diet. Begin with about 100 mL, then gradually increase your intake to a full bottle over time. It’s best to listen to your body to determine how much is right for you.
Some people new to Kombucha have experienced gas, bloating, or a change in stool when they first start drinking it.
Can I drink too much?
Drinking “too much” Kombucha will not harm you. However, we subscribe to the belief of “moderation in all things” and suggest listening to your body. Our recommendation is to cap consumption at three bottles per day.
Where are the ingredients in GT’s KOMBUCHA sourced?
Whenever possible, we source our ingredients from within the United States. Since harvest season for many ingredients falls during the warm Summer months, we also source some of our ingredients from farms in Central and South America. Our Black and Green tea is sourced from farms in India and Japan.
Can children drink GT’s KOMBUCHA?
Our Kombucha is safe for children and can also be a substitute for sugary soft drinks or high-fructose juices. For children ages ten and under, we recommend limiting their consumption to about 100 – 150 mL per day. However, if you are unsure of introducing something new to your child’s system during this time, we recommend consulting with your healthcare professional or pediatrician before consuming.
Can I drink GT’s KOMBUCHA if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
We have heard from many mothers who continue to drink Kombucha during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. However, if you are unsure of introducing something new to your system during this time, we recommend consulting with your healthcare professional due to the delicate nature of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
When is the best time to drink GT’s KOMBUCHA?
There’s no wrong time to drink Kombucha. We typically prefer it in the morning or midday, but also enjoy at night.
Does Kombucha need to be consumed with a meal?
No. Kombucha can be enjoyed before a meal, with a meal, after a meal, or any time in between.
How much caffeine is in GT’s KOMBUCHA?
As a result of the fermentation process, each flavor contains about 8 – 14mg caffeine per 250 mL serving.
(For reference, an average cup of brewed coffee has about 100mg of caffeine per 250 mL serving.)
How much sugar does GT’s KOMBUCHA have?
Immediately after fermentation, our base Kombucha contains an average of 6g of sugar per 250 mL serving. Once we add in the juice or fruit puree, each flavor will vary from 6 – 10g of sugar per 250 mL serving.
I heard that there is alcohol in Kombucha. Why is this?
Alcohol is a natural byproduct of fermentation and can be found in all fermented foods, such as miso, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. This alcohol is very beneficial to the bacteria, as it provides a natural form of food preservation – Nature’s self-defense against contamination.
If you have a sensitivity to alcohol for personal, religious, or dietetic reasons, we recommend abstaining from drinking Kombucha or consulting with your doctor.
What are the live cultures in GT’s KOMBUCHA?
The predominant strains of live cultures in GT’s KOMBUCHA are Lactobacillus Bacterium and Bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086. There are a few more varieties as well, which is good as it supports microbiome diversity.
Why are there floaties in the bottle?
The floaties are a good thing! They are actually active strands of live culture – a sign of a successful fermentation. It is a main reason for why we serve our Kombucha raw, unprocessed, and unfiltered. If left out unrefrigerated, these floaties will form into a SCOBY that you can use to craft your own home brew.
Why is GT’s KOMBUCHA fizzy?
The effervescence (fizziness) in our Kombucha is created by the fermentation. Unlike sodas, which are force carbonated, this effervescence is 100% naturally occurring and continues to develop over time. That’s why bottles of our Kombucha closer to the “Best Before” date will be more effervescent, while fresher batches will be less effervescent. Remember: DO. NOT. SHAKE.
Why do some bottles of GT’s KOMBUCHA have ingredients settling at the bottom?
Simply put, we use real ingredients and no preservatives, emulsifiers, or homogenization processes which means that settling may occur. Feel free to gently rock the bottle back and forth, or with a gentle roll of the wrist, to help disperse the sediment. But remember: DO. NOT. SHAKE.
Why does it say, “Do not shake,” on the bottle?
Kombucha is naturally effervescent. Therefore, similar to carbonated drinks, it will have a “Champagne Effect” if you shake it before opening. We recommend turning the bottle upside down and gently rolling from side to side to disperse any sediment.
What is the pH of GT’s KOMBUCHA?
The low pH level of our Kombucha is a direct result of the fermentation, which releases acetic acids. Those are very important, as they protect the brew from harmful microorganisms and act as natural preservatives for your beverage. Did you know that fermentation was one of the safest ways to preserve foods before refrigeration was invented?
Where can I buy GT’s KOMBUCHA?
Our Kombucha is available at Planet Organic and Whole Foods Markets in London.
How should GT’s KOMBUCHA be stored?
Our Kombucha is a raw food containing live cultures so it should ALWAYS be kept chilled in a refrigerator between 1 – 5 °C. Bottles should be stored upright and never on their side.
How long does GT’s KOMBUCHA stay fresh after it’s been opened?
For best quality and experience, we suggest consuming within three days of opening.
Can I drink GT’s KOMBUCHA after the “Best Before” date?
For best quality and experience, we suggest consuming on or before the date printed on top of the cap.
Can I recycle GT’s bottles?
Yes, GT’s bottles are recyclable. Simply take the bottle and cap to your local recycling center or use curbside recycling. There are also endless ways to reuse our bottles. We’ve seen them upcycled as containers, flower vases, candleholders, makeup brush holders, sand art, and more. Find inspiration on our Pinterest here. Learn more about our sustainability practices here.
Where is GT’s KOMBUCHA made?
Since 1995, we’ve crafted and bottled all our offerings in sunny Los Angeles, California – the hometown of our founder, GT Dave.
