��ϴ��¼� Kombucha - The ��ϴ��¼� Blog | Gut Health, Recipes & Kombucha Tips

Explore the power of Turmeric

2025-06-19T00:00:00+01:00

Turmeric, Lemon & Ginger could be our most powerful kombucha yet.

Find out what makes this liquid gold brew a functional powerhouse as we take a turmeric deep dive. And you won’t even end up with bright yellow fingers. Turmeric is a fascinating plant with a long history of use both as a spice and for its potential health benefits. Turmeric (scientific name: Curcuma longa) is a flowering plant in the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) and is native to Southeast Asia, particularly India. The part of the plant that’s commonly used is the rhizome, which is the underground stem that looks similar to ginger. Slice into a turmeric rhizome and you’ll find a bright golden yellow flesh with a warm, earthy flavour and a slightly bitter edge. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine (like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine) due to its wide range of purported health benefits. It is also a staple in Indian cooking.

Functional benefits of turmeric

The primary active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which is responsible for its functional benefits. • Anti-inflammatory properties: Curcumin has strong anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Turmeric can help manage and reduce inflammation, which is why it's often recommended for conditions like arthritis. • Antioxidant effects: Curcumin is a potent antioxidant, which helps protect cells from oxidative damage. This can slow down aging processes and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. • Supports brain health: Some studies suggest that turmeric may help improve brain function and could play a role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Curcumin is thought to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports the growth of new neurons. • Digestive health: Turmeric is commonly used to aid digestion. It can help reduce symptoms of indigestion, bloating and wind. Some studies have also suggested that turmeric could help with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). • Improved joint health: Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric can be very helpful for reducing symptoms of joint pain and stiffness, particularly in osteoarthritis. • Mood and mental health: Some studies suggest that turmeric may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The anti-inflammatory effects are believed to play a role in this.

The kombucha effect

We’ve wanted to make a Turmeric kombucha for quite a while. We all know the probiotic benefits of kombucha and when you add turmeric to the mix, you're getting an extra boost of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Kombucha helps support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria (gut flora). Adding turmeric, especially for its curcumin content, can amplify the health benefits, particularly related to reducing inflammation, supporting digestion, and improving overall immunity. The combination of probiotics and curcumin creates a synergistic effect that may enhance your digestive and immune system health. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Boost: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, which means when added to kombucha, it may help reduce inflammation in the body, boost your immunity, and even support brain health. If you have conditions like arthritis, turmeric's anti-inflammatory action may complement the gut-health benefits from kombucha.

Finding the flavour balance

Turmeric has an earthy mildly spicy flavour with a slightly bitter edge. Our Head Brewer, Rupert, experimented with many recipes before he perfected our Turmeric, Lemon and Ginger kombucha.

Ginger: Cousins, ginger and turmeric are often combined in Eastern food cultures. Both have anti-inflammatory properties and add a zingy, warming flavor.
Citrus: We added organic Sicilian lemon juice to balance turmeric’s earthiness and create brightness on the palate.
Black Pepper: Piperine (found in black pepper) enhance the absorption of curcumin and adds an unexpected spicy kick to this vibrant kombucha.

Why we don't use artificial sweeteners

2025-02-11T00:00:00+00:00

Like all the good things in life, our kombucha is quite simple. We use a few carefully chosen organic ingredients combined with the knowledge of our craft brewers and the magic of fermentation, to make delicious, low-calorie drinks.

To create each ��ϴ��¼� Organic kombucha we start with just three things: filtered water, organic green tea and organic raw cane sugar. Each of the three is crucial to providing the perfect environment for our unique SCOBY to do its work transforming our sweetened tea brew into the living kombucha we’re so proud of.

In this blog we’ll be focusing on sugar and how we use it in our kombucha. We’ll take you behind the scenes at our Yorkshire brewery to learn how we balance the sweetness and other flavours in our booch. And we’ll lift the lid on sweeteners and why there will never be a place for them in our drinks.

Quality and low quantity

We choose cane sugar, rather than sugar beet, because it’s the only way we can source a truly organic, GMO-free sugar for our drinks.

It also tastes great. Raw cane sugar is an ancient ingredient that needs minimal processing. It has delicate molasses flavour that imparts depth and complexity to our kombucha.

Although we start with sugar in our recipe, our drinks contain less than 4g per 100ml. That’s less than many fizzy soft drinks, for example:

Coke has 10.6g per 100ml
San Pellegrino Classic Italian Taste Limonata has 7.97g per 100ml

That’s because the fermentation process uses the sugar up feeding the probiotic microbes and eventually turns it into the delicious antioxidant rich, slightly tangy kombucha we know and love.

Balancing the complex sweet, tart and fruity flavours of each ��ϴ��¼� Organic Kombucha is the job of our experienced team of craft brewers. Whether we’re adding the sharp zesty notes of citrus that give our Sicilian Lemon its zing, or the ripe fragrance of tropical fruits like our Organic Pineapple & Mango in cans, we always want the natural sweetness to shine through.

Tips from our brewing team

From sweet tooth to sweet enough already, our craft brewing team are here to help you find a kombucha you'll love.

organic blood orange can

From £36.13 for 24 cans

Sweet enough already – try our Organic Blood Orange, the punchy citrus shines through

Organic white peach & Strawberry

From £24.65 for 12 bottles.

In search of sweet sunshine – you’ll love White Peach and Strawberry with its summery strawberry fragrance and sweet juiciness

Organic fiery ginger can

From £36.13 for 24 cans

In search of balance – our Organic Fiery Ginger pairs gentle sweetness with the heat of ginger root for a brilliant balance of flavours

The downside of sweeteners

We’re all aware of the harmful effects of too much sugar, but did you know that the artificial sweeteners in many soft drinks, including some kombuchas, may be free from calories but they do have consequences for your gut?

We’ve been told that artificial sweeteners are inert in the human body, but research is starting to show that many sweeteners can have an impact on our gut microbiome, damaging the balance of the important friendly bacteria that live there.

In short, our gut friendly bacteria don’t know how to process these chemicals, so they react unpredictably, potentially leading to metabolic and inflammatory changes that contribute to vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular disease and changes to blood sugar levels.

100% natural is the way to go

For us at ��ϴ��¼�, the priority has always been to keep things natural and simple. Our drinks are low in calories because they are made in a traditional way using just organic green tea, raw cane sugar and water as a base for our fermentation process, using our unique SCOBY*.

You will never find artificial sweeteners in our drinks, which means you can relax and enjoy an ��ϴ��¼� Organic kombucha swap whether you’re keen to limit the amount of sugar in your diet or to cut out ultra processed ingredients including sweeteners.

If you’re interested in some research about the effects of sweeteners on the delicate gut microbiota, you can find recent papers here:

*Symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts

Growing a SCOBY

2025-01-22T00:00:00+00:00

Did you know you can grow your own SCOBY from our Original Kombucha. A SCOBY is the Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast that creates the fermentation process that turns simple green tea into gut-friendly kombucha. Take a look inside ��ϴ��¼� HQ and see how a SCOBY grows in just a few days. It's still magical to us after more than a decade! https://vimeo.com/1049230105?share=copy

classic bottles multi-pack

From £24.65 for 12 bottles. The Classic Bottles Multi-pack, includes our award-winning Original flavour

original

From £24.65�� for 12 bottles. Our Original kombucha. Perfect for growing your own SCOBY

mixed bottles multi-pack

From £33.58 for 20 bottles A great introduction to our range of authentic organic kombucha flavours

Make your own kombucha

If you're interested in the science of the SCOBY and making your own kombucha, check out this See the whole process

Why I’m vegan: Aleksandra Wielgopolanin

2025-01-07T00:00:00+00:00

Our Technical and Quality Manager, Aleksandra Wielgopolanin loves a challenge. From reading a book a week for a year to training for an ultra-marathon, Aleks always has a goal to work towards. But underpinning all her efforts is her choice to follow a vegan diet.

Aleks’ veganism may have started as a post-COVID experiment she set herself as part of her ‘year of challenges’ in 2021. But it has become an important and enjoyable lifestyle choice that she sees as a fundamental part of her identity.

Embracing the challenge

“I love to challenge myself.” Aleks says.

“It’s not about judging my success, but having a goal helps to motivate me to make positive changes. I enjoy the journey and that was particularly true when it came to learning how to follow a healthy, vegan diet.

“Back in 2021, many of my friends were vegetarian or vegan and I wanted to see if I could follow a vegan diet myself. I had several motivations to cut out animal products from my diet; I was concerned about the dairy industry and wider animal welfare issues surrounding the production of meat and dairy, in addition, for me veganism is an important environmental choice. Once I made the switch to veganism I never lapsed, but I did learn some important lessons that made it much easier and more enjoyable!”

Try Aleks' favourite kombuchas for yourself

Original kombucha

From £24.65 for 12 bottles.

Our Original will always be my Number 1. ��I'm fan of its pure flavour. Sometimes I brew my own kombucha, mixing different types of teas, and I think the love for the classic fermented flavour grew from that.

Sicilian orange & Yuzu Kombucha

From £24.65 for 12 bottle

Orange & Yuzu is my favourite of our fruity kombuchas. It reminds me of Fanta, which is a taste of my childhood. Now I have a healthy version which is even better!

Ginger kombucha

From £24.65 for 12 bottles

Ginger is great when I need a pick-me-up, either in the morning to start the day better, or when I need a little bit of a vitamin kick because I'm not feeling great - it's the best option.

Find the life in your food

Aleks says that she found the transition to veganism gave her the chance to see food in a completely new way. It was exciting to experiment with food and find new ways to make familiar ingredients the star of her meals.

She says: “I tried a few meat substitutes but quickly realised that they weren’t for me. I didn’t use recipes, I just focused on the ingredients I loved and experimented with how to prepare the dishes I enjoy using just vegan-friendly ingredients.

“There’s lots of life in my food. My cooking skills have improved, and I love to cook for friends and surprise them with the flavour and excitement you can have in vegan dishes.”

Do your homework

If you’re considering adopting a vegan diet for Veganuary, or as a long-term choice, Aleks has some tips:

It’s important to do your homework. I would recommend researching the iron content of different foods to ensure you’re getting enough. Anaemia is a common problem, particularly for women, and it’s simple to top up your iron with a supplement. Make sure you pair it with Vitamin C to aid absorption.
I take vitamin B12 supplements as this can be difficult to find in a plant-based diet. There’s plenty of useful information on the and the is a rich source of tips, recipes and information.
There’s no need to start all at once – why not start with one or two vegan days a week and build up?
Herbs and spices are your friends – even the most humble vegetable can be made into something delicious and satisfying with a little care and creativity.

And one final piece of advice from Aleks…Have fun with your food.

Aleks says: “I think my challenge has been easier to stick to because I didn’t get too hung up on making perfect meals. Sometimes my creativity led to brilliant discoveries, other times I made things I will never repeat!”

Have a holly jolly boochmas with ��ϴ��¼� - order by 19 December

2024-12-11T00:00:00+00:00

We’ll be shipping orders placed up to the 19th of December with delivery before Christmas Day. There's still plenty of time to stock up on your favourites from our range. Whether you're looking for some thoughtful gifts, a treat for yourself or a great alcohol free option for festive refreshment, add kombucha to your list now and we reckon you’ll be giving yourself a pat on the back come tinsel time.

Three great reasons to add kombucha to your Christmas List Good-for-you gifts If you’ve enjoyed the benefits of a regular kombucha fix this year, why not share your discovery? Our bottle multi-packs make great gifts for healthy friends, foodies and non-drinkers. Stock up for the non-drinkers Ask anyone who prefers a non-alcoholic drink, and they’ll tell you it can be difficult to find a tasty grown-up option. We’d like to suggest a stock of lightly sparkling and delicious kombucha will mean you’re prepared for the drivers and no/low alcohol guests with a thoughtful alternative. Treat yourself Make sure you’ve got a stock of your favourite flavours as a little treat to yourself. What could be better than a daily kombucha to help boost energy levels, aid good digestion and improve your overall mood throughout the festivities?

Is Kombucha Good For IBS?

2024-10-10T00:00:00+01:00

We regularly hear from our customers that drinking ��ϴ��¼� kombucha has helped them to resolve many of the symptoms of their IBS however, there is a debate between those who think drinking Kombucha helps IBS and those who think it could worsen symptoms. This article will seek to take a deep dive into Kombucha and IBS, looking at how Kombucha can help those with IBS and reduce bloating.

Kombucha and IBS

What is IBS?
Can Kombucha heal your gut?
Is Kombucha a good probiotic?
Kombucha & FODMAP for IBS
What about the sugar, caffeine & alcohol in Kombucha?
Carbonated Drinks & IBS
What are the best drinks for IBS?

What is IBS?

“IBS’ stands for irritable bowel syndrome and is a disorder affecting the large intestine. Some of the include abdominal cramping, bloating, gas and diarrhoea. It is thought that IBS can be irritated by certain foods and drinks and, as a chronic condition, those with IBS have to carefully manage their diets to reduce these symptoms.

Can Kombucha heal your gut?

IBS is a complex disorder but one of the best places to start in managing the symptoms is to focus on creating good gut health overall. This can include a combination of that are irritants and, instead, introducing fermented, living drinks like Kombucha and Kefir as a means of improving overall gut health. We have written more about and the in our blogs.

Is Kombucha a good probiotic?

I know we may sound like a broken record, but authentically brewed and fermented, Kombucha like ��ϴ��¼� is full of living bacterial cultures that promote good gut health. It is also well known that the Kombucha fermentation process can that can balance levels of bacteria in the gut.��

Kombucha & FODMAP for IBS

are a type of carbohydrate that contain sugars that can upset the digestive system. Kombucha may be high in FODMAPs however, when enjoyed in moderation can have a positive effect on the gut. Most people with IBS follow a low FODMAP diet and should try and limit their intake of Kombucha to 6 ounces (177ml) or smaller - just less than half a (perfect for splitting a bottle with a friend).��

What about the sugar, caffeine & alcohol in Kombucha?

As we have discussed in previous blogs, , from the green tea, and alcohol, which is produced in the fermentation process. Many IBS sufferers will avoid caffeine and alcohol as it irritates the gut, however Kombucha only contains very small amounts - much less caffeine than coffee and as much alcohol as fruit juice!�� If you are managing your IBS symptoms, we recommend avoiding any Kombucha with added sugar and sweeteners, especially sorbitol and mannitol, which can have a laxative effect. ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha is relatively low in sugar with 3g per 100ml,��which is great news for everyone seeking low sugar, healthy alternative drinks!

Carbonated Drinks & IBS

It has been thought in the past that carbonated beverages can contribute to digestive issues and lead to bloating and gas. Kombucha is naturally carbonated as carbon dioxide is produced during the fermentation process, however most of it does not remain in the drink. At ��ϴ��¼� we carbonate our Kombucha to add that sparkle back and recommend trying carbonated drinks in small quantities to see how you react.

What are the best drinks for IBS?

There are a lot of drinks available that are known to reduce the symptoms of IBS. These include:

Kombucha
Kefir
Probiotic drinks
Milk dairy alternatives such as almond or coconut milk
Green juices
Decaffeinated coffee
Pure water

Overall, no matter what healthy drinks you choose, we recommend avoiding sugary and artificially-sweetened fizzy drinks, dairy milk, high-fructose fruit juices and regular coffee, which are all known to irritate the .�� Ultimately, everyone is different and various foods and drinks will affect us all in different ways. Some people report improved digestive health and reduced bloating from drinking Kombucha regularly, and for others Kefir or Green Juices are better. Why not try our to see how you feel?�� One of our previous participants told us...

“I love your kombucha and it has made me feel younger, due to IBS going away! Thank you and keep up the good work."

Why not give it a go and see if it can help you too?��

Kombucha Skincare Benefits

2024-09-19T00:00:00+01:00

Kombucha, ‘the elixir of life’ is increasingly becoming a staple in many people’s diets due to its restorative antioxidant, immune boosting properties. But what about its beauty benefits? Journalists and beauty bloggers can’t get enough of the stuff, with skin gurus like the legendary Trinny Woodall naming our very own booch as her ! So, what are the skin benefits of Kombucha?

Let's talk all things Kombucha, digestion, skincare and acne...

Kombucha and acne
Kombucha skincare
Leaky gut, leaky skin: what’s the connection?
Is Kombucha face wash really a thing?
Do SCOBY masks really work?

Kombucha and acne��

In recent years, the relationship between our gut and other parts of the body have been widely explored, between good gut health and a healthy heart, a robust immune system and maintaining a good metabolism. , Kombucha can also help to reduce skin inflammation, which is great news for eczema and acne sufferers. So, maybe there is a link between gut health and acne after all. Kombucha contains organic acids and natural probiotics, which ‘’, and maintain the natural balance of the skin, so less breakouts!

Kombucha skincare��

You can reap the skin benefits of Kombucha by drinking it, but you can also use it on your skin! , expert skin care therapist Inna Knyazenvch explains that: “Fermented ingredients containing probiotics can help to improve inflammatory skin conditions and reduce premature signs of ageing” and that adding probiotics to our skincare�� “will help to [create] a healthier skin microbiome and boost its immunity to fight environmental toxins and bacteria.” – what’s not to love?! Over the years, many skincare brands have released their own fermented skincare products but they can be on the expensive side. We’ve created a recipe for a , which is quick and easy to make at home. It contains silky shea butter, coconut oil, essential oils and our hero ingredient – ! Along with our antioxidant and vitamin-rich Kombucha, our recipe also contains frankincense essential oil, which has fantastic antiseptic properties. All of our Kombuchas are fully organic, vegan and gluten free. Check out our for tips on how to make it.

Leaky gut, leaky skin: what's the connection?

The term refers to when your gut lining becomes compromised and allows undigested food particles and toxins to enter the bloodstream, causing an immune response and possibly leading to health conditions, including uncomfortable skin conditions. There are a variety of causes for a leaky gut, including high stress levels and eating food that does not agree with you.�� Similarly, refers to when your skin is not acting like the barrier between your insides and the outside world, as it should. This can lead to toxins and environmental allergens entering your bloodstream and causing internal issues.�� According to “increased intestinal permeability is causing or contributing to certain maladies, including potentially ataopic dermatitis”. Simply put, it’s your leaky gut behind your common inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema and rosacea.. So, before healing your skin, you need to heal your gut and address any digestive problems you are having.�� If you’re looking for some ways to improve your digestive health, read our blog on the . Or, if you’re looking to get started improving your digestive health right away, why not get involved in our ?��

Is Kombucha face wash really a thing?

All skin is different. Whether that’s natural or chemical, many of us have tried a number of different face washes and are still yet to find something that works for our skin. If you’re still experimenting, why not give a Kombucha face wash a go? This home remedy is as simple as it sounds, and involves using a bottle of Kombucha to wash your face. Remember to only try this with raw, unflavoured Kombucha as other varieties could contain harmful sugars and additives which could cause a reaction in your skin.�� As with any changes to your skincare routine, you may experience a little bit of irritation to begin with, however if this persists, stop using this method immediately. And it goes without saying, keep it away from your eyes!

Do SCOBY masks really work?

is the jelly-looking, living culture of bacteria and yeast used to make Kombucha. And, although SCOBY may not sound and look the most appealing, a SCOBY mask could be just what you need for softer, more supple skin. How do you make a SCOBY mask you may ask. Well, you’ll need to source some SCOBY (either homemade or shop-bought) and blend it up into a paste. It’s completely normal if it has a bit of a chunky texture! Next, apply it to your skin�� like you would any other face mask, let it work for around 10 minutes while you watch TV or soak in the bath, and then wash it off. You can get creative with this mask and add in other nourishing ingredients, like Aloe Vera or essential oils for additional benefits. Alternatively, you can use a thin disc of SCOBY as a sheet mask with cut-out eyes, nose and mouth. Using a whole Kombucha should bring circulation to your skin’s surface and regenerate skin cells, and the will act as a dead skin peel. Try it for yourself and let us know what you think!�� Glow on the inside and out with ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha!

Why are we organic?

2024-09-03T00:00:00+01:00

��ϴ��¼� Organic kombucha is a Soil Association certified product. This means all our drinks are made with carefully sourced organic ingredients and our production methods have been certified too. Each year, the ��ϴ��¼� Organic brewery is audited to ensure that everything we do complies with the standards set out by the Soil Association. This covers ingredients, of course, but also all the processes and materials we use, right down to the cleaning products we choose to keep the brewery sparkling clean. Everything we put into our drinks has been grown or made using methods that benefit our whole food system, from people to planet. We choose to be organic for a few great reasons: You can taste the difference We believe that to make great kombucha you need great ingredients. We take time to brew our kombucha in the authentic way using simple, natural ingredients: water, organic Chun Mee green tea and organic raw cane sugar. Our Organic Sicilian Lemon kombucha is a great example, the delicious Siracuse lemon juice we select comes from an organic family farm in Sicily where they have grown citrus fruits for generations using traditional farming techniques. It’s better for the planet Organic farming is designed to respect nature and enhance the health of soils, water and air. Organic farming creates healthy living soils which can store more carbon and have higher levels of soil microorganisms. The Soil Association has plenty of information about the sustainability of organic production you can explore. It’s great for people By choosing to be organic we can support a way of farming that works for people in the long run – that includes our customers, our team and the people who grow our ingredients

Why are we Organic?

2024-09-02T00:00:00+01:00

��ϴ��¼� Organic kombucha is a Soil Association certified product. This means all our drinks are made with carefully sourced organic ingredients and our production methods have been certified too. Each year, the ��ϴ��¼� Organic brewery is audited to ensure that everything we do complies with the standards set out by the Soil Association. This covers ingredients, of course, but also all the processes and materials we use, right down to the cleaning products we choose to keep the brewery sparkling clean. Everything we put into our drinks has been grown or made using methods that benefit our whole food system, from people to planet. We choose to be organic for a few great reasons: You can taste the difference We believe that to make great kombucha you need great ingredients. We take time to brew our kombucha in the authentic way using simple, natural ingredients: water, organic Chun Mee green tea and organic raw cane sugar. Our Organic Sicilian Lemon kombucha is a great example, the delicious Siracuse lemon juice we select comes from an organic family farm in Sicily where they have grown citrus fruits for generations using traditional farming techniques. It’s better for the planet Organic farming is designed to respect nature and enhance the health of soils, water and air. Organic farming creates healthy living soils which can store more carbon and have higher levels of soil microorganisms. has plenty of information about the sustainability of organic production you can explore. It’s great for people By choosing to be organic we can support a way of farming that works for people in the long run – that includes our customers, our team and the people who grow our ingredients

The Science Behind The Organic Acids in Kombucha

2024-08-19T00:00:00+01:00

What do you love about kombucha? For us it’s the refreshing taste. We can’t get enough of that unique acidic twang. We also love the fact that the slightly sharp (and totally addictive) taste we enjoy in our craft-brewed booch has brilliant added benefits. The fermentation process we use to turn our green tea brew into kombucha produces a collection of beneficial and delicious organic acids. But what are these acids and what are they doing for us?

What are the organic acids in kombucha

Awesome acetic acid Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its acid kick and kombucha its distinctive flavour. It’s the most abundant of the three commonly-occurring organic acids in kombucha. The other two are glucuronic acid and gluconic acid. They’re all produced as a by-product of the fermentation process used to make kombucha. A study published in the in 2000 found that kombucha was effective at inhibiting the growth of some common bacteria pathogenic to humans. This means that under lab conditions, kombucha restricted the growth of harmful bacteria. The bacteria in this study included E. coli, salmonella and campylobacter and listeria. All bad bugs that can cause the stomach upsets, sickness and diarrhoea associated with food poisoning. This means that drinking kombucha regularly could help us fight off nasty food poisoning bugs. And this is down, in part, to acetic acid, a known anti-bug agent. According to a health review published in the scientific in 2014, acetic acid is largely responsible for these antibacterial effects of kombucha. It also works in conjunction with the proteins in kombucha to increase this effect. �� Best supporting acid The glucuronic acid in kombucha has a variety of health-supporting roles in the body. A study published in 2004 in the explains that this acid helps support the liver’s detoxing duties, helping it do its job of processing drugs, chemicals and pollutants. Glucuronic acid also helps keep the balance of our sex hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone in check and helps to increase the activity of antioxidants. Boosting good gut health Kombucha contains gluconic acid, which was proven in to support the growth of good gut bacteria called Bifidobacteria. They help support a healthy gut and for this reason, they’re often added to probiotic supplements. The more support we give these good guys with gluconic acid from the mighty kombucha, the happier our gut! Sharp operators Kombucha is also linked with supporting a healthy immune system due to its antioxidant content. One of these antioxidants is ascorbic acid, better known as vitamin C. And kombucha contains glucaric acid which showed promising antioxidant results in a . Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can damage our cells, leaving us vulnerable to disease. So, there we are, a collection of awesome acids, present in kombucha with health benefits we can all benefit from by enjoying our daily kombucha. What’s not to love?

Meet our award-winning Organic Blood Orange kombucha

2024-08-13T00:00:00+01:00

Have you tried our award-winning organic Blood Orange Kombucha in a can yet? The judges of this year’s Great Taste Awards loved it and awarded it a coveted 1-star Gold Award. As one of our newest flavours, Blood Orange could be our favourite child right now. We love how it captures the essence of these beautiful fruits with their deep ruby-coloured flesh. So, we were delighted with the judges’ comments:

“A deep salmon-pink drink with a gentle effervescence and a citrus aroma. There is��good intensity of orange on initial tasting, with a balanced sweetness and freshness.”

“This is all about the clean, simple, true flavour of blood oranges -��a well made, very refreshing drink.”

Blood oranges are in season for just a few weeks in January and February, but you can enjoy a fix of their complex citrus flavour and fruity floral fragrance every time you open a can of our Organic Blood Orange kombucha. This refreshing coral-coloured booch showcases the distinctive, sweetly floral flavour of Sicilian blood oranges, which are less tangy than navel oranges. Our Head Brewer Rupert says that this ��ϴ��¼� Organic flavour works so well because the natural tang of our authentic kombucha brings an extra edge to the deep sweetness of blood orange. He recommends serving over ice to enjoy its lovely colour and gentle fizz. If you’re after a simple cocktail idea, try serving ��ϴ��¼� Organic Blood Orange kombucha paired with vodka garnished with a sprig rosemary or thyme. Bruise the herbs to release their aromatics which will intensify the orange flavour. Blood Orange also pairs brilliantly with dark chocolate, rhubarb, berries and lemon making it a good choice to serve alongside fruity desserts. ��ϴ��¼� Organic Blood Orange kombucha is featured in our mixed pack of four cans and is also available as a single flavour pack. This flavour is also currently available in Co-Op stores nationwide as part of the food-to-go meal deal. As with all our kombucha in cans, ��ϴ��¼� Organic Blood Orange best served chilled but can be stored at room temperature. It’s low in calories, 100% natural, organic, vegan and gluten-free.

Kombucha can help you feel like an Olympic medal winner inside

2024-08-06T00:00:00+01:00

We chat to Team GB Olympic Gold medalist, Hannah Scott, and Ollie Wynne-Griffith, who won Silver in Paris, about why they like to include kombucha in their diet. Have you been inspired by the awesome commitment and resilience of the athletes at the Olympic Games? Have you ever wondered how gut health and nutrition play a role in the training of elite athletes? We’re proud to supply kombucha to Team GB Olympic Rowers and and it’s great to know that the Gold and Silver medal-winning duo relied on our booch right the way through training. Here at ��ϴ��¼� Organic we’ve always believed in the power of kombucha to help you feel your best. For most of us our diet is something we think about with general health and wellbeing in mind, but for elite athletes it’s a crucial part of their training and preparation Before they headed to Paris we spoke to Hannah��and Ollie��to find out about their training and why they include our organic kombucha in their daily diet. EK – What does a typical day’s diet look like for you during training? OWG – We consume between 5,000 and 6,000 calories per day when we’re training, which means we have 5 meals per day. It’s a real challenge to get enough fuel to support our training regime of three two-hour sessions each day. We have a team nutritionist who works closely with the chef who prepares breakfast and lunch for us – we also have a first breakfast at home before training and an evening meal and snacks that we prepare for ourselves. EK – How do live cultures feature in your nutrition? HS – Our nutritionist is a strong advocate of including probiotics and live cultures in our diet and she helps us to balance the need to consume so many calories with the nutritional make up and diversity of our food and drink. The importance of probiotics and live cultures has become a real focus for our sport in the past two or three years because we know that the cumulative effect of all the small positive things we do makes a big difference to our results. EK – What benefit do you experience from drinking kombucha and including other gut-friendly foods in your diet? HS – For me the benefits of drinking kombucha are really tangible. When I first started training at this level, I struggled to take on enough calories – it was just physically uncomfortable and took a toll on my digestion. Drinking kombucha and eating plenty of fibre have really helped me to have an efficient and healthy digestive system. OWG – We can’t afford to have time out from training. It’s so easy to pick up bugs when travelling and competing in close proximity with rowers from all over the world so it’s crucial to support our immune systems with live cultures and pro-biotics. I have used pro-biotic supplements in the past, but I much prefer the reassurance of getting them from a natural organic product. HS – For both of us, our regular kombucha feels like a treat rather than a chore. It’s a great alternative to a fizzy sugary drink and we look forward to enjoying our kombucha. EK – Do you think a happy gut gives you psychological benefits? HS – I really notice the difference in my mood and resilience when my gut health is good. The gut-brain axis means that supporting your gut health is a wise move if you want to be able to cope well with stress and maintain focus. OWG – Our training is all about the cumulative result of many marginal gains. It just makes sense that anything we can do to help stay fit, focussed and strong is a good idea – especially when it’s something we enjoy! Of course, a daily kombucha boost isn’t just for rowing superstars, we can all benefit from improved digestion, better mood and strengthened immunity – even if the only medal we’re likely to win this summer is for the egg and spoon race at the school sports day. There’s lots more information about and in their British Rowing profiles.

B Corp Month - using business as a force for good for all

2024-03-14T00:00:00+00:00

March is B Corp Month. This year’s campaign champions the B Corp community and the way they view their businesses as a perpetual work in progress, asking them to share how they plan to keep growing their impact in the future. We asked our MD, Ian, to share his thoughts about what B Corp means for our customers and products. Ian says: “I genuinely believe that business can be a force for good. The ethos and practices embodied by the B Corp guidelines are things we would strive towards as a responsible employer and producer, even if B Corp didn’t exist. But the rigorous processes and careful thinking we must evidence in order to be certified are a brilliant structure we can use to guide us." What does B Corp mean for ��ϴ��¼� Organic booch drinkers ��ϴ��¼� Organic has recently embarked on its fourth year as a B Corp – a certification we are very proud to have achieved. Being a B Corp is all about using business as a force for good for all – something that really resonates for our business. Renewable energy – as part of our B Corp certification, we are committed to using 100% renewable energy. Producing great, authentic kombucha uses quite a lot of energy, so it’s important that we choose our power responsibly from renewable sources. Plastic packaging – throughout our operation we seek to minimize the use of plastics. This can lead to big decisions, for example, we have discarded a number of new product development ideas simply because the would require plastic packaging. Our efforts to continually reduce plastic use are ongoing and I’m delighted that our new cans, which will launch in a few months’ time, will remove one of the last plastic elements from our packaging Organic – as a business we try to look at our impact holistically. We believe gut health goes hand in hand with soil health and so we choose to make our products using high-quality, totally organic ingredients. People – to make a great product you need great people. Our people are the magic ingredient that makes our kombucha stand out from the crowd. Their knowledge and dedication are unrivalled and we’re committed to their continuous development through our ��ϴ��¼� Leadership Labs which are designed to promote the quality culture within our organization. If you’re interested to find out more about ��ϴ��¼� Organic’s B Corp commitments, there’s an t compiled by our brilliant Sustainability Lead, Genevieve, who works closely with the whole team at ��ϴ��¼� HQ. You can also find your local B Corp businesses on this

Meet the women who help keep ��ϴ��¼� Organic kombucha flowing

2024-03-08T00:00:00+00:00

This International Women’s Day we’re celebrating two members of the ��ϴ��¼� family who have joined our team this year. ��ϴ��¼� has always had a strong group of female employees who have steered our growth and been responsible for many of the decisions that make us the B Corp business we are today. Rachel, our Production Manager and our Customer Service Coordinator, Sarah are continuing this great tradition with their work ensuring that our products and service are as good as they can be. �� Rachel’s advice: Ask rather than tell As Production Manager, Rachel is responsible for ensuring all departments here at ��ϴ��¼� HQ work together seamlessly to produce the best booch we can. Her role requires brilliant communication skills, sharp attention to detail and knowledge of all aspects of the business. Rachel’s motto is ‘ask rather than tell’ – she says it’s the best way she knows to get people working with her towards a common goal. Rachel started her manufacturing career about 25 years ago in welding and engineering where she says she was a rarity as a female working in a male-dominated environment. She believes that it has become easier for women to work in manufacturing in recent years and she no longer feels like she stands out. Sarah’s advice: stress less If you’ve contacted us recently with a query or a problem, the chances are you’ve already met Sarah. She’s the person who looks after all our customer service queries from questions about ingredients and subscriptions to arranging deliveries for our retailers, Sarah has many plates to keep spinning. Her advice to anyone in a busy role is to stress less – she says it doesn’t get you anywhere. Instead, take a step back, look at the bigger picture and find a solution. Sarah says her most important qualities are a great memory, loads of energy and excellent organizational skills. Her experience as a busy mum and Scout leader turned out to be great training for her coordinator role at ��ϴ��¼�. She says that keeping tabs on a group of 15 year-old Scouts makes any organisational challenge seem manageable. Sarah’s favourite booch – Raspberry & Elderflower because it’s delicately fruity and never too sweet Rachel’s favourite booch – Blood Orange it’s a great flavour and the cans are really convenient

Why I am Vegan

2023-01-06T00:00:00+00:00

My journey to becoming Vegan Like most people, I grew up eating meat, dairy and eggs and never thought twice about eating those foods. I believed that was normal and healthy and couldn’t understand why people took such extreme actions like not having cow’s milk on their cereal or boiled eggs for breakfast. But for 7 years now I have been fully vegan, and my diet has been entirely plant-based. So, what was it that changed my mind and was it the right decision? It began when I was at school and asked my parents if I could become a vegetarian. I’d grown up around farms and countryside and seeing the animal agriculture first hand had connected the animals I saw outside my window with the food on my plate. Once I had connected the two and seen what was involved in producing the food I ate, I decided that I would rather have lentils in my pasta sauce than minced beef. The idea that it was not worth killing an animal just for me to eat meat was fundamental to me for several years, but I never saw any issue with milking a cow or taking the eggs that a chicken had laid. It wasn’t until I went to university that I was exposed to many varying views of the world. This made me want to understand my diet and consumption from all aspects which included researching animal agriculture and the alternatives. The conclusion for me was to eliminate the consumption of all animal products from my life but it is important to recognise that is far from perfect. While I believe there are clear problems with the industries surrounding animal agriculture; plenty of alternative crops / meat-free foods can cause harm to humans as well as the environment when produced in the wrong way. My goal by transitioning to a vegan diet was to do as little harm as possible. �� My reasons why being Vegan is important For me, animals were the principal reason for becoming vegan. A lot of their exploitation goes unnoticed which is understandable when taking note may also mean removing peoples’ favourite part of their diet. Naturally the worst conditions are in factory farms employed by large corporations who can hide the horrible environments the animals endure. There are now plenty of articles and documentaries for those who are interested in knowing where their meat, dairy and eggs come from. Environmental issues have also become far more apparent through the media in recent years which has meant people are increasingly considering this in the lifestyle choices they make. For me, a vegan diet is a great way to reduce the impact I have on the drain of resources and damage to natural ecosystems. The air and water pollution from intensive factory farms, as well as their high-water use, makes alternative plant crops far more sustainable. Deforestation is also a massive issue: firstly, the land needed to raise the animals and then the vast number of crops that need to be grown to feed them. If the crops were simply fed to humans in the first place, far less land would be needed and hence more land would be protected for vital habitats like the Amazon rainforest. Health is another major consideration in our diets and there are many benefits with a plant-based one. The amount of chemicals involved in producing animal products is alarming. From antibiotics for preventing disease in their horrendous living conditions, to supplements for maximising their yield, all these chemicals result in toxins being left in the food that people eat. Plant crops tend to require and contain less toxins, but this is where organic produce becomes important. Organic fruit, veg and other plant-based products are fantastic for a cleaner, vegan lifestyle. For me, working at ��ϴ��¼� has been great as the company shares the same values around organic and vegan produce. I know that everything I contribute at work goes towards producing a great tasting drink that does as little harm as possible to people and the planet. The nutrition in animal-based foods also tends to be much higher in fat than the plant alternatives which can be an issue if consumed in excess. Ultimately the health effects I have experienced since become vegan are anecdotal but very real for me. I have experienced better moods, improved concentration, better gut health and an overall feeling of increased fitness. This may obviously vary for everyone but for me it has been fantastic. In recent years, finding products that are suitable for vegans has become much easier with increased options and clear labelling for most things. Eating out has also become far more straightforward as most places have clearly marked options. Beyond this, finding brands and products that meet higher standards of environmental and ethical responsibility can be very difficult. Every brand wants to be seen as though they are doing the right thing which can make it very confusing when deciding where to spend your money. Often the smaller natural / whole foods shops vet the products they sell so that customers don’t have to worry so much about researching each individual company. On a larger scale there are independent organisations like B Corp who certify companies based on various ethical and environmental standards. This means that if a company is a certified B Corp you know they meet high standards of social and environmental performance, and you can support them with a clearer conscience. �� Top tips for plant-based lifestyles So, this Veganuary if you are feeling like trying a plant-based diet out – here are some tips I have learned over the years!

Take it slow - Once I decided to go vegan, it was a slow transition. Try replacing foods and ingredients gradually to find out what works well for your body and lifestyle.
Reduce instead of remove - If you don’t want to go the whole way, maybe just try reducing your meat consumption for a month or two and see how you feel
Vote with your money - Spend some time looking at plant-based brands that you are attracted to and include these products in your diet – by voting with your money, you are automatically having a positive impact on the planet

�� Of course, so I can always recommend trying some of our delicious living kombucha as a part of your Veganuary adventures. But I would say that! �� Written by Ben Costello Planning and Production Manager @ ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha

Celebrate 'Well' this Winter

2022-12-02T00:00:00+00:00

Here at ��ϴ��¼� we believe that no matter how crazy things seem out there, 'in here' we can always celebrate wellness and health. 'In here', often means prioritising products (and companies) that do good for our bodies, minds and souls as well as the world around us. Instinctively good as we like to say here in our brewery. This month when we are all deciding how to spend our valuable resources like time, money and energy 'well', we have put together our Winter Gift Guide featuring brands and products that our team at ��ϴ��¼� love. In-joy! River Cottage Ferment the Seasons Course The ideal gift for any kombucha lover is River Cottage’s course, Ferment the Seasons. This is the perfect way to get to grips with making your own gut-friendly ferments. On this one-day course with fermentation expert Rachel de Thample, you’ll learn to make a range of fermented products, all with seasonal organic ingredients. And of course it wouldn’t be a day of fermentation without learning how to make your own kombucha! Head to their website��to find out more. REN Skincare Ranges We love REN. The team there have been pioneers in Clean Skincare since 2000 and select nature’s most powerful and kind bioactive ingredients, harnessing their benefits in our formulas to create effective, high performance and clinically proven skincare. REN are passionate about protecting our planet’s resources and committed to reducing the waste that they produce at every stage of the production, distribution, and promotion of our skincare. Check our their Christmas gift ranges��

Eat Good. Do Good. Stay Odd

Instead of heading to your supermarket for the Christmas veggie shop, why not try something a little different that also prevents food waste? Around 40% of all food grown goes unwanted, wasting with it, a humongous amount of CO2e and water. Oddbox rescues delicious fresh fruit and veg that may otherwise have gone to waste directly from farmers and delivers it to your front door. If you want to reduce your impact on the planet by taking action on food waste,�� and get 50% off your first box using the code "EQUINOX".

T&Cs- 50% off on the first box for new Oddbox customers. Offer excludes the fruit booster. Offer valid until 31st March, 2023

��

Stroud Brewery - for those who like an ethical, organic tipple!

Stroud Brewery is a long time friend of ��ϴ��¼� and has been a passion project for Founder Greg Pilley; an adventurer, environmentalist and beer lover. His purpose was simply to make great tasting beers for the local community whilst being the change he wanted to see in the business world.��Like us, Stroud are a dedicated organic brewery certified by the soil association and all their beers are made with organic malt and hops.

Why not try one of their��this Christmas and enjoy an organic tipple that is good for the planet?

Indulge 'well' in a Winter Party!

Of course no ��ϴ��¼� party would be complete without some of our delicious, organic kombucha! This year to encourage us all to enjoy the festive season whilst still taking care of our health, we have put together a Winter Gift Pack of our four most popular flavours for this time of the year. The Winter Pack includes our special Christmas flavour, Spiced Ginger bread, our delicious mocktail Virgin Mojito and our classic flavours Ginger and Wild Berry. All perfect for healthy drinking over the festivities. For everyone that buys a , we will enter you into our *Secret Santa weekly prize draw to win some exciting Christmas prizes!

*T’S AND C’S – THERE WILL BE A DIFFERENT PRIZE PER WEEK AND ANYONE WHO HAS ORDERED A WINTER PARTY PACK IN THE PRECEDING 7 DAYS WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE ENTERED TO WIN. PRIZES ARE RESTRICTED TO ONE PER CUSTOMER FOR THE ENTURE DURATION OF THE DECEMBER DRAW (I.E. NO ONE CUSTOMER WILL RECEIVE MORE THAN 1 X PRIZE).

Is Eating Organic Really Better for you?

2022-09-26T00:00:00+01:00

We think so! It’s Organic September, and whilst every month of the year is Organic for us at ��ϴ��¼�, we are diving into , you and the planet! Certified by the and also a proud , we are committed to improving the health of people and the planet – we can’t really separate the two,, can we? So, let’s dive in and connect the dots.

Is an organic diet better for you and the environment?

As an increasing number of us become more environmentally and health conscious, we want more of the good stuff and less of the bad.�� It is no surprise organics is one the fastest growing areas in the food industry, reaching a in 2021. With so much choice and controversial information out there, it can get confusing as to whether eating organic is better for you and if buying organic really is better for the environment? As a business founded on the principles of , we truly believe that organic is better – for both you and the planet – here’s why.��

What’s the difference between organic and non-organic food?
Can we trust organic food?
Is eating organic healthier?
What are the benefits of organic food?
Is buying organic better for the environment?
What are the pros and cons of organic food?
Our commitment to organic

��

What’s the difference between organic and non-organic food?

Organic food has been grown, raised, and produced without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilisers, growth stimulants, antibiotics, and pesticides. It must also be free of any artificial food additives and GMO. Non-organic food has been farmed or produced using a wide array of manufactured fertilisers and pesticides, and may contain artificial additives that can be harmful to both humans and the environment.��

Can we trust organic food?

Absolutely.�� Certified organic companies undergo rigorous independent inspection to ensure they adhere to a strict set of regulations. In the UK, the main regulating body is the , so when you see their symbol on a package (like our bottles and cans!) you can be assured that the product you are buying has been inspected from ‘tractor to trolley’ and comes from trusted, high-quality sources.�� Which is better: organic or natural? Are they the same? Whilst many organic foods are natural, natural foods are not necessarily organic. Natural foods are unprocessed and free from artificial additives and preservatives, but unless they are certified organic, they may contain high levels of pesticides.

Is eating organic healthier?

Did you know that ?�� Even when non-organic foods are washed, or cooked, harmful pesticide residue can remain. Eating organic is not only a great way to help avoid these toxins, but has also found it to be more nutritionally beneficial, and many will argue, tastier too!��

What are the benefits of organic food?

Organic Food Benefits

have shown organic produce has up to 40% higher levels of nutrients including vitamin C, zinc, and Iron.
Organic food has up to
Organic food helps to support immunity and reduce allergies.
Organic food reduces your exposure to artificial chemicals, added hormones, toxic metals and antibiotic-resistant bacteria which can be carcinogenic and endocrine disruptors.��
Organic food has better taste due to diverse soil, higher nutrient levels, and the absence of pesticide residue.��
Organic meat and milk contain around , (without increasing calories and unhealthy fats).�� are essential for supporting brain, heart and eye health, immune function, can help fight depression and anxiety, as well as many other essential functions of the body.��

Increasingly, scientists believe that no level of pesticide exposure is safe for humans. Many pesticides, even trace amounts, are endocrine disruptors, which can affect everything from the thyroid gland to fertility. Additionally, long term pesticide exposure has been linked to cancers, asthma, ADHD, depression and anxiety and neurodegenerative disease.�� Multiple pesticides are now found in our food, soil and water, creating what is known as the ‘.’ Growing evidence suggests pesticides become more harmful when combined and safety levels are currently set for one pesticide at a time, not the effects of all of them together. UK government testing found that 25% of all non-organic food contains pesticide cocktails and some foods have found to contain ��in a single item.�� The only cocktails (or mocktails!) we want you drinking are those that tantalise your taste buds and contribute to good health. . Whilst there is still much to learn and discover, simply put, organic food has more of the good stuff and omits the bad stuff. * So, the more organic you can put in your body, the better!��

Is buying organic better for the environment?

Organic farming is designed to work with nature, enhance soil biodiversity and respect the earth’s water and air. It is the most sustainable way of farming, benefiting the planet and people. If you are wondering how organic food is better for the environment, here are a few points.��

13 ways organic farming is better for the environment:

Lowers emissions
Uses less energy
Helps reduce greenhouse gasses��
Lowers the risk of pollution to soil and waterways
Reduces pollution
Reduces fossil fuel emissions��
Conserves water
Reduces soil erosion
Increases soil fertility��
Is better for wildlife and local communities��
Creates healthier soils that store around 25% more carbon��
Protects plant, insect, and bird life, which on average is 50% more abundant on organic farms.��
Has the highest animal welfare standards

Research suggests that if all UK farming was organic, , which would have a significant impact on the health of our environment and communities.��

Are there negatives of organic food?��

Whilst we stand by organic food being better for our health and the planet, we recognise the challenges of organic farming and the barriers to organic food being accessible to all.�� Higher Cost:�� Due to the more labour-intensive farming methods and smaller scalability, organic food often costs more than non-organic food. In an ideal world, organic food wouldn’t have to be more expensive, and organisations like the Soil Association are working hard to gain subsidies.�� Here are some suggestions to make eating organic more affordable:

Shop seasonally
Shop on sale and freeze items��
Grow your own herbs and vegetables
Prioritise which organic foods to buy. Check out the’ and ‘ guides to help minimise exposure to pesticides on fresh produce and stretch your budget further.��

The Soil Association has also put together a great guide.�� Shelf Life: Since organic food does not contain preservatives, it may not last as long. It is recommended to keep produce in the fridge to keep it fresher and buy smaller amounts to prevent food from going off.�� Availability: A full range of organic products may not be available at your local shop, but every day this is increasing and there are several organic food delivery services available nationally now such as .��

What are the pros and cons of organic food?

As a certified organic company, we believe the positive impact of organic food heavily outweighs the disadvantages. We also acknowledge there is still a lot to be done for organic produce to be more accessible to all.��

Advantages of organic food	Disadvantages of organic food
Higher quality produce	Can be more expensive
Higher in antioxidants	Limited shelf life
Higher nutritional content	Limited choice of products
Stringent regulation	Fewer ‘convenience’ foods are organic
Reduces the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides	Availability��
Less water pollution��	Rigorous farming methods��
Reduces disruption to wildlife��	More difficult to scale organic farming��
Less soil pollution
Improved quality of life for livestock
Reduces fossil fuel consumption��
Reduces pest resistance

Our commitment to organic

We believe in a world where business is used as a force for social and environmental change and where people understand that their choices directly contribute to their own health and that of our ecosystems. In fact, this is our , which drives everything we do. Being organic and contributing to a more sustainable world is at the heart of our existence.�� If that sounds exciting, kick back with an organic and check out our . The care, craftsmanship and high standards that go into creating our delicious kombuchas mean that not only are you getting the very best in taste and quality, but you are also and doing the planet good.�� *Some studies have found low levels of pesticide residue on organic foods due to systemic use of pesticides in the ecosystems and waterways and over spray from nearby farms.

10 Health Benefits of Mint

2022-09-14T00:00:00+01:00

Did you know there’s�� much more to mint than you may think? Commonly found in foods such as chewing gum and toothpaste, mint is a species of plant belonging to the genus Mentha. In fact, there are a variety of different types of mint, such as spearmint and peppermint, each with their own uses and benefits. Mint can be enjoyed in aromatic teas, delicious desserts and refreshing drinks - like our , which contains natural mint flavour in addition to organic mint leaves and cold pressed juice! So, the real question is: does mint have any health benefits? In short, the answer is yes! There are a wide range of health benefits of mint, from improved brain function to digestive health. Better yet, opt for organic and enjoy all these benefits without the chemical residue or environmental burden, or mix your mint with other health-boosting foods. How about that? Drinking a fruity mojito and reaping all the health benefits of kombucha and mint? What a win! We’ll run you through some of the incredible health benefits of mint in more detail…

1. Filled with nutrients

Mint contains a number of different , such as:

Fibre - maintains a healthy bowel
Vitamin A - improves eye health and prevents cardiovascular disease
Vitamin C - supports immune system and tissue repair
Calcium - maintain strong bones
Iron - supports healthy blood
Folate - necessary for producing red and white blood cells
Manganese - beneficial for brain and nerve function��

Mint is also a fantastic source of antioxidants, which helps protect your body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress can lead to fatigue, memory loss, joint pain, headaches and more unpleasant symptoms.

2. Improved digestive health��

Another amazing benefit of mint is that it can help improve your digestive health, and even relieve some of the symptoms of . Peppermint oil in particular has been known to alleviate IBS symptoms, since it contains menthol which can relax the muscle in your digestive system. In turn, this can help .�� Did you know that ?

3. Boost your immune system

As touched upon briefly, that help against free radical damage and have a huge impact on your immune system. Maintaining a strong immune system is essential for overall good health and preventing a multitude of illnesses.�� In addition to mint, and promote good health throughout the body.

4. Better brain function

Mint has been known to have a positive effect on brain function, helping increase alertness and memory capabilities, as well as prevent mental fatigue. These types of benefits of mints are typically obtained through inhaling the plant’s essential oils, rather than from consumption.

5. Support your pregnancy

Another lesser-known benefit of mint is that it can be used to support your pregnancy and help make . Yes, you read that right! A natural cure for breastfeeding pain - hallelujah! Some new mothers apply mint to the skin, in the form of an essential oil or peppermint gel to relieve breastfeeding pain and prevent skin cracking.�� Some people also choose to chew mint as a way to . Although many swear by these remedies, we recommend checking with your doctors before changing your diet, taking new medications or supplements, especially when pregnant or breastfeeding.��

6. Reduce cold symptoms

The common cold is caused by a virus, which means mint cannot cure your cold, but it can certainly help relieve the symptoms. reveal that mint can help improve nasal breathing, helping you decongest your sinuses and get you through the worst of your cold. Why not try a cosy cup of mint tea to warm you up as well?

7. Keep your mouth healthy

Mint is proven to mask bad breath, making it a great ingredient to flavour toothpaste, mouthwash and gum. And, while these products only mask the smell, chewing real mint leaves or drinking mint tea will actually kill the bad-smelling bacteria at the source and neutralise the smell. In fact, , peppermint in particular, and can be great for relieving mouth ulcers, too.��

8. Help manage stress

Research suggests that mint can help combat feelings of . Some studies even suggest that the , which means simply eating a peppermint sweet or diffusing mint oils in the air can do the trick.�� Studies also suggest that peppermint can and prevent hypertension.��

9. Improve allergy symptoms

Mint can help reduce the symptoms associated with dust allergies and asthma due to its . It contains an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent called rosmarinic acid that has . So, next time you’re feeling the wrath of pollen, reach for some peppermint!

10. Soothe irritated skin

Salicylic acid and Vitamin A have become extremely popular in the world of skincare, with many social media skin-care gurus preaching their cleansing properties. Mint products can make a great addition to your since it contains antibacterial properties, salicylic acid and Vitamin A, which are all beneficial for acne-prone or irritated skin. There are a variety of products on the market that contain mint and are known to unclog pores, reduce redness and break down pimples. Similarly, containing high amounts of and antioxidants, mint also does wonders for your hair. As such, mint is beneficial for treating dandruff and other scalp conditions. All that being said, it’s important to note that pure menthol is not good for your health, whether that’s inhaling it, consuming it or applying it to your skin!

Summing up

Is mint good for you? Absolutely! Mint is a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, and makes a healthy addition to your diet. Incorporating mint into your daily routine may not be for everyone, but don’t let that get in the way of enjoying the benefits of mint.�� Not a fan of peppermint tea? Hate the taste of minty sweets? Why not treat yourself to a ? Or add a splash of white rum - that still counts, right?

Açai Kombucha Tequila Cocktail Recipe

2022-07-22T00:00:00+01:00

This is a very simple Kombucha tequila cocktail recipe that even those with no experience can make, mostly with the tools and ingredients you can find in your kitchen! The combination of fruity Kombucha, açai berries and lime makes for a zesty, fruity flavour, with the lavender syrup and viola flower adding a fragrant aftertaste to complement the classic Kombucha 'tang'.

Makes one serving

Ingredients :

40ml 'Blanco' tequila (blanco tequila is a tequila that has been aged for a very short time, if at all)
15ml lavender syrup
75ml
Juice of half a regular-sized lime
1 bottle of , fresh from the fridge
Ice
Garnish (we used a slice of dehydrated lime and an edible viola flower, but this is up to you!)

Utensils:

Latte spoon (any long handled spoon will do)
Long drink glass (these usually have glass detailing towards the bottom, but any highball glass will do)
Straw (try a reusable straw to be eco friendly!)

��Method:

Combine the first 4 ingredients in the glass, and give it a light stir to combine them.
Add in the ice, a couple of cubes at a time, at roughly 15-20 second intervals, stirring lightly throughout. This helps cool the spirits down gradually.
Carefully top the drink with the Kombucha until you have roughly half an inch of space left in the glass.
Add your garnish and straw (the fruit can be placed inside the glass, or on the rim of the glass. To place it on the rim, make a cut halfway through the slice with a small knife).
Serve and enjoy this fruity Kombucha tequila concoction!

�� Recipe by James French, Bartender & Mixologist at The Clockwork Rose �� Check out our our other

Kombucha Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe

2022-07-15T00:00:00+01:00

Summer is now in full swing and that means it’s time for fruity drinks and tipples in the sun! We’ve whipped up a delicious gin and Kombucha cocktail for you to try at home. Using a blend of our and dry gin, this sumptuous treat will be sure to tickle your taste buds with a sweet and tangy twist. Let’s get stuck in…

Ingredients:

50ml gin (we used Old Tom recipe gin, but any dry gin will do)
25ml lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 egg white, or 25ml of aquafaba to make it vegan friendly
25ml single cream, or 25ml oat cream to make it vegan friendly
15ml simple syrup (no extra flavour)
3 fresh raspberries
Ice (amount is dependent on how many you're making and the size of your shaker)
1 bottle of ��ϴ��¼�'s Raspberry & Elderflower Kombucha, fresh out the fridge

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Tools:

Cocktail shaker
Mini strainer (a normal sieve will do in a pinch, but pour carefully!)
Muddler (a wooden spoon or end of a thin rolling pin will do in a pinch)
Glass (a tall, thin one is best, similar to the one pictured, but any glass will do)
Metal teaspoon/latte spoon

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Method:

Add the raspberries, lemon juice and syrup to a shaker and 'muddle' together, which mashes up the raspberries and mixes them with the juice and syrup.
Once the ingredients are muddled together, add the remaining ingredients and dry shake (shaking without ice). Shake until the lemon, sugar, and egg (or aquafaba) begins to thicken and emulsify into a foam.
Once the foam has started to form, top the shaker off with ice and shake for a further 30 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into your glass, and allow it to settle for a couple of minutes, or until the foam begins to firm up and 'wiggles' slightly when gently shaken.
Using the back of a spoon, gently pour Kombucha onto the top of the foam (the spoon is vital, as otherwise the liquid will displace the foam when poured) until the foam is poking slightly out of the glass, to add a fizz and that classic Kombucha tang at the end.
Serve and enjoy this moreish Kombucha gin cocktail!

Recipe by James French, Bartender & Mixologist at The Clockwork Rose

Is Kombucha a good source of probiotics?

2022-07-05T00:00:00+01:00

Image source www.kratomiq.com �� Let’s explore the link between Kombucha and Probiotics. Probiotics have long been a popular health trend, but are not just a passing fad. There is plenty of research out there now that clearly shows the link between consuming probiotics and your overall health and wellbeing. A quick google search will turn up all kinds of interesting studies like this one from , which links probiotics and gut health.�� There are numerous ways to include probiotics in your diet, such as taking supplements, consuming fermented foods, yoghurts and more. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the benefits of probiotics, why Kombucha is a good source of probiotics and how Kombucha compares to other sources of probiotics that you could get your hands on!

What are probiotics and why do we need them?
What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?
What are the best foods for probiotics?
- Is Kombucha a good source of probiotics?
Kombucha vs probiotic supplements
Why nutritionists recommend Kombucha as a great source of probiotics

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What are probiotics and why do we need them?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts promoted as having various health benefits. According to the , probiotics are thought to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your gut (including your stomach and intestines) when it's been disrupted by an illness or treatment. Commonly known as ‘good’ or ‘friendly’ bacteria, some of the key benefits of probiotics include to fight off illness and . Probiotics are especially important nowadays with the . There are so many processed foods and drinks that we consume that can have a negative impact on our gut microbiome, and foods rich in probiotics may be one way of helping this. For those of you wanting to dive deeper, we discuss some of the health benefits of consuming a diet rich in living, fermented food and drinks in some of our previous blogs, such as , the , and .��

What’s the difference between ?

It’s worth mentioning at this stage that probiotics and the other term you may have heard, prebiotics, differ. In a nutshell, probiotics are the foods or supplements that contain live bacteria to balance the microflora of the gut. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are any foods that feed that microflora. Prebiotics are typically high fibre foods that help the healthy bacteria grow inside your digestive tract. Ideally you need a diet that contains both! ��

What are the best foods for probiotics?

So, what food and drinks can we consume if we want to up our levels of probiotics? Top sources include:

1. Yoghurt

Ideally organic, bio-live yoghurts that contain living bacterial cultures and yeasts

2. Kefir

Traditionally made, living kefir (again we prefer organic), is a great source of probiotics

3. Kombucha

Obviously on our list is Kombucha. Is Kombucha a good source of probiotics? Yes, Kombucha is a fantastic probiotic, containing beneficial live microorganisms that can help improve gut health, but a word of caution here. The kombucha has to have been traditionally brewed and fermented in order for the living bacterial cultures to contain helpful probiotics. Not all kombuchas are fermented properly and in some cases, probiotics are added in after a pasteurisation or filtration process. It’s always worth doing your homework into how a Kombucha has been brewed before you assume it contains healthy probiotic cultures.��

4. Sauerkraut

Made from fermented cabbage and other vegetables, during the fermentation process helpful probiotics grow.

5. Tempeh

A fermented cake made from partially cooked soybeans, is fermented with a type of mould called Rhizopus that causes probiotic cultures to develop

6. Sourdough bread

A classic, sourdough bread is fermented using probiotic cultures that ensure it is much more friendly to our gut than other breads.

7. Miso

Miso is considered to have both , and is made by fermenting soybean paste with salt and a mould-culture known as koji.

8. Some cheeses

Cheese like cheddar, feta and gouda are common probiotic cheeses. Looking for labels that state ‘raw’, ‘unpasteurised’ or ‘probiotic’ will let you know if you are purchasing the right products

Kombucha vs probiotic supplements

There is always the choice of choosing probiotic supplements if you find your lifestyle simply doesn’t allow you to purchase or consume probiotic rich foods and drinks on a regular basis. Of course, there are many pros and cons to taking supplements, rather than eating them in tasty foods and drinks, like Kombucha, such as:��

Taste

Over the years, we have found that it is almost always the delicious taste of our organic Kombucha that has turned Kombucha sceptics into Kombucha evangelists! Not only can you explore different flavours for each season of the year, but you can also use Kombucha as a living, healthy and delicious swap for many other drinks, such as juice, soft drinks, and alcohol. Supplements on the other hand, whilst convenient, are pretty boring in terms of adding flavour to our eating and drinking habits.��

Cost

A good, high quality probiotic supplement can cost a lot of money, especially from specialty health food shops. Probiotic rich foods and drinks like Kombucha can be bought in multiple formats and pack sizes, which can save you money in the long run - like our or .

Effectiveness

Of course, we are all made differently and no one person’s gut microbiome is the same as another’s. This is one of the challenges when taking a probiotic supplement, as they often contain extremely , (I can speak from experience on this one!). On the other hand, organic, raw, unpasteurised drinks like traditionally brewed Kefir and Kombucha contain naturally occurring beneficial bacteria that tend to be gentler on your gut and help to create overall health and wellbeing over time.�� There is also the small issue of stomach acid when it comes to taking probiotic supplements.�� If you wish to try these, we recommend choosing a supplement with an enteric-coated capsule to make sure it gets to the gut alive!

Added benefits��

Probiotic supplements are only designed for one thing, bringing bacteria to your gut, whereas other natural supplements - like Kombucha, kefir and yoghurt - have a multitude of benefits such as supporting our overall health and immune system, as well as assisting in better sleep and boosting our overall mood.��

Why nutritionists recommend Kombucha as a great source of probiotics

In our recent guest blog James Hudson from Nutrition for Energy talks in detail about the link between . As well as diving into the various health benefits of a traditionally brewed Kombucha , he also talks directly to the benefits of the probiotics found in kombucha.�� “Kombucha can be described as a probiotic drink because it contains live health-promoting bacteria that are beneficial for our microbiome. Our microbiome is the complex makeup of all the bacteria that live on and in us. We have a relationship with our bacteria where we help them, (by providing them food and a place to stay), and they help us (by protecting us from illness, helping to synthesise vitamins. The bottom line is, if we look after them as best we can, they can do the same to us.” �� We must emphasise here that everyone is different, which means what works for someone else may not work for you. Whether you like drinking Kombucha, eating fermented vegetables or taking supplements, it’s important to have probiotics and maintain a healthy gut. If you want to see how kombucha can have a positive impact on the health of your microbiome, why not , full of the flavours that appeal to you the most?

Benefits of Kombucha for Sporting Performance

2022-06-09T00:00:00+01:00

Why Nutrition for Energy recommends kombucha

I would like to start this blog by explaining who I am, as I think it is important that you, the reader, are critical of where you get your nutrition information from. I am James Hudson, founder of and I am a registered sport nutritionist with a Post-Graduate Diploma in Sport Nutrition from the International Olympic Committee. I run a nutrition consultancy business for those who have fitness challenges on the horizon, and want to improve their diet, so they can maximise their performance.�� The reason I got in touch with ��ϴ��¼� was because I recommend their live drinks to so many of my clients. For transparency, I want to explain I am not gaining anything (money or free products) by recommending clients to them …..well, apart from happy clients who are performing better. The team at ��ϴ��¼� asked me to explain what the benefits of Kombucha are for those of you who love sport and want to improve your performance. What is the connection between kombucha, sport and exercise? And, why do I recommend live drinks like kombucha to my clients? That is what I am going to explain in this blog, but in short, because healthier people perform better.

Applying the research to your drink and finding the right kombucha for improved sports results

Before I get into the details of the benefits, (and I do plan to go deep), I want to address the elephant in the room. Discussing the benefits of kombucha is fraught with difficulty because the production of kombucha is not standardised. This means that the final composition of the drink that is being studied is highly dependent on the raw materials (the tea) used, which can be affected by geographic location and climate, the physicochemical parameters adopted in the process (for example the local species of bacteria and yeast,) and the source of the inoculum . As a consequence, kombuchas cannot only vary from one producer to another, but also batch to batch. Throughout this blog, I reference studies to back up my claims, however you need to appreciate that the exact kombucha in these studies is not the exact same as that produced by ��ϴ��¼�. That said, in general terms I feel comparisons can be made and this blog is a blend of my understanding of the literature combined with my experience as a practitioner.�� I recommend ��ϴ��¼� specifically because they are a respected company where quality assurance and control is paramount. This means the benefits of their kombucha are more likely to be similar batch to batch. What’s more, having tasted a lot of kombuchas on the market (as well as making my own), I believe they are best in class (best in “glass” ?!) for taste. The fact that they are a B-Corp company is a lovely added bonus! Taste is exceptionally important for me when recommending products because if I want my client to gain the benefits of the product, they actually need to consume it. It could be the most beneficial product in the world, but if they don’t like the taste then they won’t consume it. So, let's get into what those benefits are.��

Kombucha helps performance by scavenging “free radicals” - The antioxidant effect of live tea

Okay, first let me explain what “free radicals” are, so strap in for some biochemistry. Free radicals are molecular species that contain an unpaired electron. They don't like being in this state and are looking for another electron to become “stable”. During the process of finding another electron (where they basically steal one) it damages cells. This process is called oxidative stress and leads to ageing as well as contributing to a number of diseases. What we need is a molecule with just one electron that will happily donate it to the free radical without damaging itself. These molecules are called antioxidants. Your body can produce its own antioxidants and you also can get them through your diet. Antioxidants work to prevent free radicals from causing damage to your cells.�� Many factors in our lifestyle cause an increase in free radicals, for example not getting enough sleep, drinking alcohol, smoking, breathing polluted air and surprisingly, exercising. Now, I don’t want you to think, “OMG I need to stop exercising” because unlike the others I listed, exercise has a huge number of positives that outweigh the fact it does also cause a release of some free radicals.�� As the majority of my clients exercise, I like to recommend they get antioxidants into their diet. The reason I do not opt for a supplement like Vitamin C or Vitamin E (both of which can act as antioxidants), is because nutrients may not act efficiently in isolation; instead, they work better together with compounds found in the food matrix . So the bottom line is food that contains antioxidants trumps supplements every time, and the good news is kombucha contains a lot of antioxidants because the main ingredient is tea.�� All teas have good antioxidant properties (proper teas…!) even before they have been fermented. Kombucha can be made with any tea (black, green, white or oolong) and researchers have concluded that green tea has more health benefits than an equal volume of black tea in terms of antioxidant capacity . ��ϴ��¼� use green tea to make their booch, which is great news from an antioxidant perspective.�� It is generally believed that polyphenols and catechins (which are healthy plant chemicals) are mainly responsible for antioxidant actions in kombucha. These phenolic compounds can easily donate hydrogen, which has the effect of preventing free radicals from causing cell damage (Srihari & Satyanarayana., 2012). The awesome thing about kombucha is that it contains even more antioxidants than regular tea! During the fermentation process (which changes tea into kombucha) enzymes liberated by bacteria and yeast (in the , “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast”) break down larger polyphenols in the tea into smaller ones causing an increase in the total number of phenolic compounds . It is considered good sport nutrition practice to eat a diet rich in foods that are high in antioxidants, particularly during periods of high training load. This is because when your body is working really hard it is producing more free radicals and needs a little help from extra antioxidants in the diet. So, in the lead up to a race/event/competition when your training is full on kombucha will give you the boost you need or after that race/event/competition when you have just worked really hard, having some kombucha could help with your recovery. So, one of the reasons kombucha would help your sport performance is because of the beneficial impact it has on your recovery by helping to scavenge free radicals, and thus reducing oxidative stress.�� Find out more about .

How can probiotic “live” drinks help athletes?

Kombucha can be described as a probiotic drink because it contains live health-promoting bacteria that are beneficial for our microbiome. Our microbiome is the complex makeup of all the bacteria that live on and in us. We have a relationship with our bacteria where we help them, (by providing them food and a place to stay), and they help us (by protecting us from illness, helping to synthesise vitamins and minerals and a whole host of other things on which I could write a whole new blog post). The bottom line is, if we look after them as best we can, they can do the same to us. We look after them by not using harsh chemicals when we wash our skin, spending more time outside, eating a diet rich in fibre that has a wide variety of plants and also consuming probiotics.�� There are a couple of reasons why I want my clients (those who exercise) to look after their microbiome, which includes their . Firstly, if they have a healthier microbiome (one which has a wide range of different beneficial bacteria), then they are less likely to get ill. If they have better immunity they have less days off training, so they get fitter faster. Also, nobody likes being ill, so I encourage my clients to do something proactive, like drinking kombucha after they do sport to improve their gut health and reduce their risk of illness.�� Secondly, your microbiome can affect your mood because the bacteria that live in your gut can send messages to your brain via your vagus nerve. With a more stable and happier mood, you are more likely to want to exercise. I am sure we have all experienced the “I should go and do some exercise” feeling. Well, maybe a healthier microbiome will make this feeling occur less frequently or for it to be less severe? Again, if you can do more exercise, your body has more opportunity to adapt and you will become a stronger athlete who performs better.��

Gateway probiotic for athletes

As a Sport Nutritionist, I want my clients to be consuming more live foods and drinks in their diet so they start getting some of the benefits described above. The good news is there are many live foods and drinks to choose from. For example, drinks like kombucha and kefir, as well as foods like yoghurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, tempeh, miso and natto. Now, excluding yoghurt, I doubt many of us consume many of these foods on the regular. In my practice I make sure I make my recommendations realistic, and suggesting to a client to start having kimchi (the Korean spicy, garlicky fermented cabbage/radish mix), or natto (the gooey pungent flavoured fermented soybean) a couple of times a week, may be met with more resistance than a tasty sparkling drink like ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha. This is not to say that those other foods are not fantastic, healthy, and tasty, but it may require my client to be a little braver. From experience, when coaching new habits, it is important to make the new behaviour as attractive and easy as possible for that habit to stick. So, I often recommend kombucha as a starting point to get my client to dip their toe into the waters of live food and drink. This will improve their gut health and athletic performance.��

A perfect replacement - improving diet quality

A final benefit of this drink is how well it works to at a social occasion. Food and drink are more than the calories, macronutrients, and flavours they bring, because there are also the emotional connections associated with them. For example, we will pop some champagne or prosecco to celebrate, have a cocktail with friends or a glass of wine during an evening with our partner. Unfortunately having water instead of some bubbles can feel like you are missing out on something (other than the drink itself), almost like you are missing some of the fun or being part of the social occasion.�� Maybe you are the designated driver, or you are consciously lowering your alcohol intake to help with your sporting performance, then having a go-to drink which is fancier than water can really help you from feeling like you are missing out. I think the bubbles in kombucha really help with this sense of fun. So, instead of having soft drinks, which are usually just loaded with sugar and little else, you can then enjoy the social aspect of drinking with friends and family whilst also safe in the knowledge the kombucha you are drinking is improving your exercise performance. �� James Hudson is the Founder of Nutrition for Energy a sport nutrition consultancy business which teaches how to use the power of food to improve sporting performance. James works with his clients to build long-term habits and has an educational approach to his nutrition coaching. James is a keen runner, cyclist, swimmer and CrossFitter and works with everyday athletes in all sports. �� References Jacobs, D. R., & Tapsell, L. C. (2013). Food synergy: the key to a healthy diet. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 72(2), 200-206. Jayabalan, R., Malbaša, R. V., Lončar, E. S., Vitas, J. S., & Sathishkumar, M. (2014). A review on kombucha tea—microbiology, composition, fermentation, beneficial effects, toxicity, and tea fungus. Comprehensive reviews in food science and food safety, 13(4), 538-550. Lee, K. W., Lee, H. J., & Lee, C. Y. (2002). Antioxidant activity of black tea vs. green tea. The Journal of nutrition, 132(4), 785-785. Srihari, T., & Satyanarayana, U. (2012). Changes in free radical scavenging activity of kombucha during fermentation. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 4(11), 1978. Zhang, J., Ma, L., Chang, L., Pu, Y., Qu, Y., & Hashimoto, K. (2020). A key role of the subdiaphragmatic vagus nerve in the depression-like phenotype and abnormal composition of gut microbiota in mice after lipopolysaccharide administration. Translational psychiatry, 10(1), 1-13.

How to Store Kombucha

2022-04-11T00:00:00+01:00

At ��ϴ��¼�, we have always brewed our kombucha the authentic way, which means it contains living bacterial cultures that are beneficial for gut health and overall wellbeing. This blog explains how our living kombucha must be stored. Let’s find out more…

Do you need to refrigerate Kombucha?
How long can you keep Kombucha out of the refrigerator?
Can you store Kombucha outside during the winter or in a cool cellar or garage?
Can you store Kombucha in the freezer?
Is Kombucha still drinkable after being left out?
Does it matter if you store Kombucha in a can or bottle?

Do you need to refrigerate Kombucha?

Yes, real living Kombucha should be kept refrigerated. By keeping it in the fridge, you will slow the natural, ongoing fermentation process by deactivating the living enzymes and reducing the rate of organic acid production. You will also help to keep the associated carbon dioxide production at lower levels, ensuring that your kombucha maintains just the right amount of ‘fizz’ and does not explode – this is especially known to happen in unregulated home brewing! and are made from fermented, organic teas. So, like most other living Kombuchas, the living fermentation process will continue after our booch is bottled or canned, something that will speed up exponentially if the kombucha is warm. By keeping our kombucha chilled, you will also ensure that it continues to taste fresh and delicious. Over-fermented booch can become very tart and vinegary which is definitely not to the liking of most taste buds! You can find out more in our blog ‘.

How long can you keep kombucha out of the refrigerator?

Generally, in the UK, it is fine to leave Kombucha out of the refrigerator for 2 or 3 days at room temperature, however, any longer than that it may become fizzier and develop a different taste due to over-fermentation. In warmer climates, the higher temperatures can cause fermentation to happen faster so watch out if you are drinking booch on your hols.��

Can you store Kombucha outside during the winter or in a cool cellar or garage?

The optimum temperature to store Kombucha is below 8 degrees celsius, which means a cool cellar or garage may not be suitable as the fermentation process will still slowly continue in the warmer months. Kombucha will be fine kept outside, in a garage or cellar in the cold winter months. As the temperature begins to rise, it’s important to put it into the fridge.��

Can you store Kombucha in the freezer?

You should not store Kombucha in the freezer as that would be far too cold. Like most other liquids, Kombucha will freeze in sub-zero temperatures, causing it to expand and burst the container. Likewise, it is not advisable to freeze Kombucha as it can have a negative impact on the SCOBY cultures, causing the cell membranes of the yeast and beneficial bacteria to rupture and taking away the amazing benefits of the drink. Obviously, we want to ensure that your living cultures remain that way – find out why in our .��

Is Kombucha still drinkable after being left out?

All of the above being said, if you have a power cut or simply have to leave your shopping out on the counter for a short period of time, do not despair!�� Kombucha left out of the fridge will not spoil like other fresh drinks, like milk, however it may not be the same drink you purchased. If left out for longer than 2 or 3 days, it could start to lose flavour, develop a vinegar-like flavour or be extra fizzy. Left out any longer than this, the fermentation process may restart to a degree and affect the flavour. That said, if the Kombucha has been kept extra cold by the retailer then it takes a little longer for the fermentation process to kick in again.�� Thankfully, this means that you can definitely take your Kombucha with you when you travel or in your lunch, without worrying that it will go bad. If you are going to be in a warm environment however, we do recommend packing your Kombucha with an ice pack to keep it chilled, for a better taste and a more enjoyable refreshment.��

Does it matter if you store Kombucha in a can or bottle?

A real, living Kombucha, whether stored in glass, aluminium or plastic, must still remain in the fridge to preserve its taste and prevent over-fermentation. If you are home brewing Kombucha, you will need to leave about 2 inches of space in your container or bottle, to allow room for carbon dioxide which may be produced during storage, even when in the fridge. If you do not leave this ‘headspace’ for your booch to grow, you may have the container explode and cause some damage to humans and non humans alike! So, in summary, if you are buying or making a real living Kombucha, you will need to make sure that you have enough space in your fridge to keep it fresh! For most booch lovers, this is something that comes naturally once you realise the benefits of drinking .��

Beyond B Corp: Creating Ecosystems of Positive Impact

2022-04-04T00:00:00+01:00

Beyond B Corp @ ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha��

(Genevieve) When we at ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha set out on our journey to become a B Corp, we knew that this was a framework we could use to redesign our business from the inside out. We wanted to join a global community of ethical businesses, who are asking the difficult questions of our times and working collaboratively together to find solutions in our local and national contexts. For ��ϴ��¼�, our B Corp certification is just the beginning in our journey towards true sustainability in our business and for our community. We feel that it is important to continuously assess the key areas that we as an ethical, organic living drinks brand can influence and create positive impact within.�� For example, we have always produced our drinks in glass and aluminium due to the complexity of the plastic recycling process. But when we started to look at the carbon footprint of glass vs. plastic, we can clearly see that glass production, recycling and waste have a much higher carbon impact than the same process for plastics. This is a complex issue that involves consumer perception and education, as well as operational decisions that impact the cost of goods and cost to produce our products. Ultimately, we have decided to stay with glass and aluminium due to the fact that in Europe and the UK, the recycling processes are pretty advanced and we are confident that less of our packaging will end up in landfills. This is a decision that feels right to us as a business and in alignment with our company values. If we were looking at this from a pure carbon perspective or through a cost price lens alone, we may have been making a different decision. But this is B Corp for me - we make decisions based on the needs of all our stakeholders, not just the needs of our bottom line. The two are inextricably linked of course. ��

True disruption takes collaboration

We pride ourselves on being a ‘challenger brand’, which means we strive to maintain the highest levels of transparency, sustainability and ethics that we are able to as we grow. Our mission is to disrupt the soft drinks market with the very best organic, sustainable drinks possible. However, ‘disruption’ is an easy word to say and not as straightforward to implement. Human behaviour takes time to change and is complex. Therefore, it would be arrogant to assume that one brand can be solely responsible for larger system shifts. But each of us can play our part. This is why we choose to partner with other positively ‘disruptive’ brands, like B Deals, who offer different sustainable solutions to our customers and communities.�� People want to be offered new, ethical and sustainable alternatives to traditional products and services, but we need to make it easy for them to find these and understand what makes one offering truly sustainable and impactful, and another simply ‘greenwashing’ or nice marketing speak. B Deals is a great example of a platform that both showcases ethical brands and B Corps, as well as has the potential to be disruptive in terms of connecting like-minded and like-hearted brands together to innovate around social and environmental issues.��

B Deals��

(Jonas) BDeals was founded with the goal to spread the word about B Corporations, their missions and the global movement as a whole. This has become our main goal and mission after we found out that although the B Corp community is growing significantly, it is not always very well known outside its own circles. A shame, because apart from the sustainability aspect, the intensive collaboration between B Corporations, in combination with the strong sense of community among them, offers many great (business) opportunities. To achieve our main goal, we believe it would be best to unite B Corporations and bundle their unique missions and stories into one simple business concept to have as much impact as possible. Many ideas came along during our ‘initiation’ phase: from B Corp loyalty programmes to central commercial B Corp websites.�� During this phase however, both of us (Jonas and Floris) were still students at university with time and budgetary constraints. As a result, we simplified our business ideas and simply put all B Corp products we knew in a left-over pizza box and that is how BDeals was born. With a slightly better box, we travelled through the Netherlands and visited a ton of B Corporations. Here, we pitched our idea for a B Corp-only gift company and started building our network of B Corp Partners.�� Today, we have partnerships with 14 B Corporations, ranging from food companies, like Tony’s Chocolonely and Farm Brothers to Mini-wallet producer Secrid and impact crowdfunding platform Lendahand. Our partners are very diverse, both in terms of size as well as in the products/services they offer. As a consequence, their purpose and their stories also differ from one another, which is exactly what we look for. We are happy with what we have achieved so far, but we aim to make much more of an impact and like ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha, we consider ourselves a ‘challenger brand’. We operate in a very saturated and mature market with fierce competition where fundamental change can be hard to implement among established and more traditional players. However, when it is one’s goal to bring about fundamental change, it is crucial to collaborate with as many true disruptors, like ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha, as possible. We therefore consider our gifting business as a means to an end. It is our ultimate goal to set up a large-scale B Corp marketplace where aligned B Leaders and B Corporations can do business together and support one another for the greater good: creating positive impact. For now, we continue to expand our network of like-minded people that use business as a force for good and look for ways to come one step closer to reaching this ultimate goal. �� Genevieve Boast has an extensive background in mainstream media and entertainment and specialises in the fields of change management, corporate social investment and cultural transformation. In 2018, Genevieve started working at ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha as a sustainability professional and storyhacker where she’s responsible for embedding ethical, regenerative principles into the DNA of the organisation. �� Jonas van West is a recent MSc Finance & Investments graduate with a passion for social, regenerative entrepreneurship. In 2021, Jonas co-founded BDeals, a sustainable gift company that only works with B Corp Certified companies and products. It is BDeals’ ultimate mission to set up a large-scale deal platform where aligned leaders and companies can do business and support each other for the greater good: creating positive impact.

Kombucha SCOBY: What is it and How do I Make it?

2022-03-27T00:00:00+00:00

Kombucha is an ancient, fermented tea beverage believed to have come from East Asia and Japan over 2000 years ago. It is full of living bacterial cultures which are otherwise known as a SCOBY. Contrary to some , a SCOBY is not made of mushrooms! Short for ‘symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast’, this blog is a homage to the incredible superpowers of our SCOBY’s.��

What is SCOBY?
Why is SCOBY Used in Kombucha?
Is SCOBY Good for You?
How to Make Your Own Kombucha SCOBY

What is SCOBY?

At ��ϴ��¼�, we have been growing our SCOBY’s for years now, carefully cultivating their health in the right environmental conditions and energetic vibe! When we add healthy SCOBY to our organic green Chun Mee tea and cane sugar, it starts a fermentation process where the SCOBY breaks down the sugars and converts them into alcohol, Co2 and , which play an important role in promoting gut health. This doesn’t mean that our though, as the alcohol is only present in very small quantities (less than 1.2% abv). It is the organic acids that give kombucha its distinctive ‘tangy’ taste and the Co2 provides the ‘fizz’.�� SCOBY is known as ‘The Mother’ because of its ability to replicate and give ‘birth’ to kombucha cultures again and again, if cared for properly. SCOBY Mothers are truly magical!��

Is SCOBY good for you?��

Our SCOBY ferments the green tea and sugar mix: a process that can take several weeks, during which the sugar is gradually consumed, and probiotic compounds are created. Probiotic cultures can hold several different species of lactic-acid bacteria and in clinical trials, lactic-acid strains have been observed to improve cardiovascular, immune system and even metabolic health! You can read more about these super strains in our blog about the !�� The ‘floaty bits’ you can often find in our kombucha are pieces of SCOBY that have grown from particles once we have filtered and bottled our kombucha. This shows that our kombucha is ‘alive’ and contains living cultures – they are completely safe and indeed healthy to consume!

How to make your own Kombucha SCOBY

If you want to try your hand at some home brewed kombucha (which we always advocate), then you will need to source or grow your own SCOBY Mother! There are several reliable places online where you can purchase SCOBY culture (we love the team at ) or you could try your hand at cultivating your own!�� To grow your own SCOBY Mother, you will need to purchase some real living kombucha, ideally with no flavours or additives – you could try our for this as it works really well. Then you can add the cold tea of your choice (we always recommend green tea but black, oolong or even chamomile all work well) and sugar. Combine these ingredients and cover them with a coffee filter or muslin. The mix should be tightly covered and left to ferment in a warm spot (no less than 20 and no higher than 30 degrees celsius) for around a month.�� After 30 days or so, your SCOBY should be coming on nicely! If it’s healthy, it should be at least 2cm thick and look like a pancake. At this point, it can be cut into smaller pieces and used to make new batches of Kombucha or shared with friends to make their own. Be careful to handle your SCOBY Mother with care and love, however, contamination can occur and cause mould or a strong smell which will tell you the SCOBY is decaying and needs to be discarded.�� Hopefully you will be getting the sense by now that SCOBY’s are indeed magical creatures – at the very least, healthy SCOBYs can play a really important part in assisting your gut health and overall sense of wellbeing. Cultivating and caring for your own SCOBY Mother is an amazing thing to do for your physical and mental health, but if you would rather shortcut the process, you can always buy some of our magical and drink a little bit of living SCOBY inside every bottle and can!

Behind the B - Bringing consciousness to drinking

2022-03-15T00:00:00+00:00

This month, we have teamed up with our friends and B Corp colleagues from Stroud Brewery��to explore the changing consumer trends in conscious drinking and healthy social connection.�� In this written conversation, Greg Pilley (MD of Stroud Brewery) and Genevieve Boast (Sustainability & Story @ ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha) explore some of the key trends in ethical drinking and how they are engaging with these as B Corps.�� The impact of the pandemic�� Genevieve�� “Greg, the last few years have brought lots of uncertainty to communities across the UK and the world. With the pandemic restrictions, it seems to me that our human need for regular social connection and for meaningful social relationships has become more important than ever before. How have you seen this evolve given that Stroud owns a bar that could be seen as a hub for real human connections!” �� Greg “The pandemic, and measures to manage it have hit hospitality the hardest - exactly because these are the places that people meet, mix and share. As a B Corp Brewery, with sustainability steering our business development, we have always prioritised our on-trade sales. The pubs and bars we deliver to directly, just a short distance away, with beer served from casks and kegs which are constantly recycled, represent low drink miles, almost zero packaging and great social benefit. It is the importance of our social life that the pandemic has served to emphasise, in their absence, and also in our shared challenges. This has re-enforced for us the crucial role that pubs and hospitality have as loci of community, where community connections are made through conversation and shared��endeavours. We increasingly value time with family and friends. And for our sustainable future we recognise the need to reduce our consumption, to detach our identities from the things we buy and own to the things we say and do with others - our relationships. I believe we will see a proliferation of new social venues. Of course the traditional pub is here to stay, but it's clear there is a need for inclusive community spaces.” �� Genevieve “I agree. We have seen a massive uplift in people buying our Kombucha over the last 12-18 months as a low-no alcohol alternative drink that is suited to social occasions and celebrations. And there has definitely been a cause for celebrations as we have started to re-open in the UK!�� We have also noticed that consumers are now actively seeking brands who really live their sustainable values, (such as organic, B Corp, locally sourced etc) to support their purchasing decisions. We are getting more engagement from people asking intelligent questions about our packaging, our ingredients and our production methods than ever before.�� It’s almost like lockdowns have given people the space to consider some of these important sustainability issues and make some new decisions about who they buy from and why,”.�� �� Greg “The pandemic has changed the way people shop. People are looking for quality, provenance and the right values. When the supermarket shelves were empty, people questioned why, and where is their food coming from, connecting them again with small businesses and usually ordering from them online.” �� The changing consumer landscape Genevieve “Consumer behaviour and drinking trends in the UK are definitely transforming. Social and environmental pressures mean that traditional drinks such as fresh juices and high sugar beverages are no longer the natural first choice of consumers. In September 2020 we conducted a piece of consumer research using a sample of 2000 UK customers to understand how their purchasing behaviour had changed over the pandemic.��

Whilst over 50% of people still were focussed on fruit juices and alcohol as primary drinks products, 37% were interested in healthy soft drinks and a further 27% in healthy mixers
41% of the participants considered their health and wellbeing to be an essential part of their considerations when purchasing
39% of people were trying to shop and eat more healthily

This demonstrated how much potential there is currently to reach interested consumers looking for healthier alternatives to traditional beverages and the shift in perception around traditional drinking habits that has occurred over the pandemic.” �� Greg “At Stroud Brewery, our taproom does have a grand bar, and it may seem like an altar to beer, however it is a serving space for the great diversity of our customers' preferences. and we pride ourselves as a community resource. We have an organic and /or local sourcing policy and have a fantastic range of teas, coffees, soft drinks and increasingly popular, kombucha, which with its sparkling fresh acidity is an uncompromising and health giving alternative to a glass of wine or cider.” �� The true cost of quality, ethical products�� Greg “We are a dedicated organic brewery. We believe the organic standards are the best basis for a high quality product that doest least harm to the environment. Organic farms do not use�� artificial fertiliser or pesticides, and have the on the farm compared with any other farming practice. This comes at a cost. Or rather organic products are not “subsidised” by external hidden costs associated with their production such as loss of insect life, mineral and soil depletion, the cost of cleaning and phosphate of our waterways by water companies which and is ultimately paid by us in our water bills. So there are costs, they are not directly built into the product, but we end up paying�� for them later, but the producers benefit from lower costs and higher margins. If we want to change the way we live in our world, then the most powerful thing we can do is spend our money with conscious businesses doing their best to do good.” �� Genevieve “This is such an interesting topic given the current rate of inflation. The true cost of being a B Corp is hard to quantify but essential if we are to educate consumers on the benefits of ethical, organic, products. We are passionate about creating healthy, living, organic kombucha as every day, delicious alternatives to traditional drinks. We craft brew authentic, living kombucha the traditional way which means that all our drinks contain living, health-promoting bacterial cultures, and organic acids that help to support a healthy gut and a healthier lifestyle.�� All of this however does contribute to the complexity of our production processes, and the overall cost of our organic ingredients. This is an interesting message to communicate to people right now, especially when we are asking them to try our drinks over cheaper, less sustainable alternatives.” �� Behind and beyond B Corp Greg “How do we know how well a business is performing in its responsibility to people and planet? In a world of greenwashing it is easy to make claims that exceed your actual impact. Planet saving, earth conscious, regenerative sound great but they are unquantifiable.�� This month the B Corps Behind the B campaign aims to bring back that trust. B Corps and organic have well defined standards and rigorous assessment. The organic standard is . Organic standards are largely environmental and welfare standards whereas B Corps is more holistic encompassing social and corporate responsibilities, with an emphasis on continuous improvement. It's inspiring, it's human nature to want to do better and as a B Corps movement a vision for best practice is rapidly unfolding.” �� Genevieve “Totally. When we began our B Corp journey, we decided to utilise the BIA framework as the foundation for really living sustainable values inside our organisation and outside in our products and social / environmental impact. We are fond of saying we aspire to be both ‘thought and deed leaders’ which is easier said than done.�� These times of massive transition that we find ourselves living through are challenging us at every level to walk our talk and come together in partnership with other like-minded and like-hearted brands to ask the difficult questions and find solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems together. For me this is the power of B Corp. The fastest growing sustainable business community on the planet that is unafraid to challenge the status quo and seek new ways of having a positive impact on people, planet and prosperity for all.” �� Greg “Although exciting it is more work, it asks you to step away from the day to day to consider things differently, and that comes at a commercial cost, and for a small business in the hospitality world that is a challenge, but it is a challenge that our drinkers support us for, as well as drinking a great tasting beer - Change is Brewing!” ��

Roast Beetroot with Cumin, Chilli, Bay and Hedge Kombucha

2022-02-23T00:00:00+00:00

Beetroot adds a wonderfully earthy flavour to dishes, team that with the sweetness of Hedge Kombucha and there’s no doubt you’ll Impress your guests with the most incredible side.

Makes one serving

Ingredients :

2 Freshly picked medium sized beetroots peeled and cut into wedges
1 medium red chilli, finely sliced
4 bay leaves
1 tablespoon of toasted cumin seeds
1 garlic clove, bashed
1 bottle of River Cottage Hedge Kombucha

��Method:

Heat a saute pan on a high heat until it smokes,
Add a drizzle of rapeseed oil followed by the beetroot, garlic, chilli and cumin.
Saute until all ingredients gain a little colour.
Add the kombucha and reduce to a simmer.
Cook until the beetroot starts to soften, turn the heat up high and reduce the remaining liquor down until it coats the beets.
Season and serve.

�� Recipe by Gelf Alderson, Head Chef at River Cottage �� Check out our other

Let’s debunk some of the most common Kombucha myths

2022-02-15T00:00:00+00:00

Let’s find out more about the common myths in the Kombucha world! ��ϴ��¼� has been brewing real, living, authentic Kombucha since 2012 when the company was formed by a local Yorkshire couple who returned from a backpacking trip in Asia and wanted to bring the miracle of ‘booch’ back to the UK. Since that time, we have never sacrificed our authentic, craft brewing methods, the quality of the organic ingredients that we use in our drinks or the high standards to which we make every bottle and can in our BRC AA food safety factory. But not all Kombucha is made equal and certainly many are not labelled transparently which means there is a lot of misinformation and confusion out there as to what constitutes a real living booch.��

Kombucha Myths��

Kombucha in low in sugar
Kombucha is a cure-all medicine
Kombucha is highly caffeinated
Kombucha is alcoholic
You should only drink Kombucha in small amounts
Kombucha is made from mushrooms
Kombucha is expensive��
Home-brewed is better than shop-bought

��

1. All Kombucha in low in sugar

FALSE

The idea that all Kombucha is low in sugar is unfortunately a Kombucha myth! We often talk about ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha being a lower sugar alternative to traditional soft drinks however, not all Kombucha is made equal. Some brands, or homemade batches, will have more sugar than others. ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha contains between 2.6g and 4g per 100ml of sugar. Other Kombucha will be much higher in sugar depending on their brewing process so read those labels!

2. Kombucha is a cure-all medicine

FALSE

Despite being Kombucha evangelists at ��ϴ��¼�, we don’t believe that Kombucha is a silver bullet when it comes to our health and wellbeing. Whilst real, living Kombucha does offer a range of health benefits, it is not a cure-all remedy, and cannot replace a balanced health regime. Check out our blogs on the and for more information.

3. Kombucha is highly caffeinated

FALSE

Actually, most . Our Kombucha is brewed using green tea, which naturally contains some caffeine, the majority of which is lost during the fermentation process, a trace amount is left behind; around 7.43mg per 275ml bottle of ��ϴ��¼� to be precise!��

4. Kombucha is alcoholic��

FALSE

It is true that most commercially brewed Kombuchas do contain varying amounts of alcohol. This is due to the natural fermentation process, during which small amounts of alcohol is produced as a byproduct. . A drink is deemed ’non-alcoholic’ when under 1.2% ABV. Some Kombuchas can contain more alcohol, so, again, it is important to always read the label.��

5. You should only drink Kombucha in small amounts��

FALSE

Most of (our MD Daniel has been known to drink up to four bottles a day!), however, like most things, Kombucha is best enjoyed in moderation. We recommend that you drink one to three servings of Kombucha per day, but test how you feel as the overall amount depends on person to person.��

6. Kombucha is made from mushrooms

FALSE

One of the most common myths about Kombucha is that it’s made from mushrooms when in fact, it contains small quantities of Symbiotic CULTURES of Bacteria and Yeast, otherwise known as SCOBY. The SCOBY is neither a mycelium nor a fungus – it looks a lot like a pancake and contains gut friendly yeasts and bacteria. Each bottle and can of ��ϴ��¼� contain a small amount of living SCOBY which will continue to grow as the Kombucha ages due to the live fermentation process.��

7. Kombucha is expensive

FALSE

Yet, another false Kombucha myth! Kombucha isn’t your average soft drink. It’s an artisanal drink made from the highest quality ingredients, brewed in small batches. So, we know what you’re thinking - is Kombucha expensive? The simple answer is no, but it can be more expensive than some of the other drinks you may see in the grab-and-go fridge in your local supermarket. That being said, it can also be significantly cheaper than other chilled ‘health drinks’ such as kefir and green juice.

8. Home-brewed is better than shop-bought

FALSE

Despite being expert booch brewers, we always advocate that you try some home brewing of your own Kombucha. However, there can be some drawbacks! Home-brewed Kombucha can be time consuming and money intensive, and the results will not always be consistent. We often get customers writing to us saying that despite home brewing for years, they buy our booch regularly to save time, money and enjoy our delicious flavours. You can also trust our labels and know that you are drinking a high quality, ethical, organic, low sugar, low alcohol Kombucha due to our rigorous brewing techniques and certifications.�� In summary, we hope that you can now rest assured that many of the conventional myths about Kombucha are not what they are cracked up to be and that you can enjoy your favourite without any concern. Enjoy!

A Love Letter to Calderdale

2022-02-09T00:00:00+00:00

I am often asked how ��ϴ��¼� started. And about how the UK’s leading Kombucha brand came to be rooted in the hidden valley of Calderdale in West Yorkshire. Well, the company was born in 2012 after a local couple returned home to Calderdale after discovering Kombucha backpacking around Asia. Having drunk it regularly during their travels, and feeling the benefits of drinking real, living booch on their wellbeing, they decided to bring the miracle of this fermented tea back to the UK. Equipped with jars full of SCOBY, they started to brew it in their kitchen in Calderdale, selling their organic ‘booch’ at local markets. And it took off! Why? Because Calderdale is special.

Our Valley

The valley ecosystem that we live in is unique. The biodiversity to be found in our small valley is astonishing, and people are always out exploring its hidden corners and wooded slopes. From hiking, to climbing to biking, we have some of the best trails in Yorkshire. As Rupert our Head Brewer says, “there is a quietness on the tops that is magical”.�� Calderdale is one of the most stunning and distinctive environments in the North of England. As our community partner Beth Morgan from Rooting and Fruiting has said, “The wild wilderness – the contrast between the valley and the flowing water, the steep sided gnarly woods and the expanse of the surrounding moorlands takes my breath away”. The river Calder is also something to behold – especially when the rains lash in, and we all take a deep breath as we watch the water levels rise. This raw force of nature is one to be respected. Our brewery sits on the banks of the Calder in Mytholmroyd and was unfortunately flooded in the Boxing Day floods of 2015. Our warehouse up the valley in Sowerby Bridge did the same in Feb 2020. We all love and fear the river, but are grateful for its lifeblood that runs through the heart of our valley. It is our human community here that helped us recover from the floods and has continued to support our business since its birth.

Our People

Socially, we have a mix of the best of grassroots Yorkshire’s ‘get on and do’ approach to life, combined with a large Asian community that is now well established in the region, largely from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. In addition to the ethnic diversity, we have an ancient Celtic culture rooted in social innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. As an example, the UK Cooperative movement was founded down the road in Rochdale in 1844! Hebden Bridge, sitting in the middle of the valley is a transition town and the home of the Hebden Bridge School and Learning Community that attracts families from across the UK. It is also full of artisan café’s, independent bookstores and Valley Organics, which is one of my favourite places to go and get healthy organic goodies! Todmorden, a little further down the road founded the Kindness Movement in the region and is a hot bed for community projects, grassroots movements, and a new Climate College at the Todmorden Learning Centre.

Our ��ϴ��¼�

80% of our staff come from the local area and that sense of home and family sits at the heart of who we are and how we do business. We are grateful for the supportive environment that Calderdale has given us as we have grown and matured as a company. Indeed, we wouldn’t be who we are without it. So, on this Valentine’s Day, why not take some time to appreciate and offer gratitude to the people and places who have supported you? After all – you wouldn’t be who you are without them.

What Does it Mean to be Sober Curious?

2022-01-25T00:00:00+00:00

When some of us hear words like ‘sober’, we may associate this with either recovery from alcohol abuse or a boring life choice that restricts our ability to enjoy ourselves. However, there is a growing trend in the UK, especially amongst Gen Z and millennials who are experimenting with lowering their alcohol consumption. It’s known as ‘’ or ‘mindful drinking’. ‘Sober-curious’ drinkers are particularly interested in new products and lifestyle choices that create ‘wellness’ in an individual’s life which is why drinks such as real craft Kombucha are becoming ever more popular in this respect.��

What is sober curiosity?
The Benefits of following a ‘sober curious’ lifestyle��
Top tips to becoming sober curious��

What is sober curiosity?

But what does the phrase ‘sober-curious’ actually mean? The term was first coined by Ruby Warrington in her book , published in 2018. She describes the phrase as being conscious of how we each use alcohol to create feelings of bliss, euphoria, and connection, but to start to become aware how these feelings and associations can be created from other, healthier habits, too. ‘Curiosity’ implies an experimentation with a new idea or way of life. Being ‘sober curious’ means that we gently start to explore how we consume alcohol and investigate other alternatives that promote inner and outer wellbeing.��

The benefits of following a sober-curious lifestyle

The benefits of exploring a sober-curious way of living are varied and range from bettering our physical health by reducing the toxic load to our internal systems, to improving our mental wellbeing as we find different ways of feeling good that do not hinge upon drinking alone.��

Improve Your Physical Health

It’s well known that regular alcohol consumption can contribute to physical ailments, such as weight gain, liver damage, increased blood pressure and increased risks of stroke and heart disease. By becoming sober-curious, you can experiment with alcohol alternatives (such as Kombucha!) and reduce your overall intake. By drinking ‘mindfully’ and in moderation (between 1-2 standard drinks /16-20g of alcohol a day) you will . These changes can be seen in just .

��Boost Your Mood

Of course, there are many benefits to our mental health from reducing our overall intake of alcohol. For instance, alcohol is known to have a short-term positive impact on our mood but can have long-term negative effects, contributing to . I know for me, alcohol seriously affects my sleep, and by reducing the amount I drink, I immediately which helps me to become throughout the day.��

Enjoy a Balanced Lifestyle

At ��ϴ��¼�, we believe in balance. Balance between light and dark (the ��ϴ��¼�’s are the days when we have an equal balance of day and night). So, for us, being sober-curious is right up our street. It’s much easier to maintain than cutting out alcohol altogether, and it gives you the freedom to drink in moderation without any guilt. It’s also a great option as a gateway into going completely sober (if you so choose!), helping to make the transition easier.

Top tips for becoming sober-curious��

Our top tips for exploring mindful drinking are:

Finding tasty alternatives to alcoholic drinks, such as Kombucha or mocktails. You can try some of our delicious .
Only drinking on the weekends or on special occasions.
Measuring your drinks to know exactly how much you’re consuming.
Removing alcohol from your house and making it a treat when you go out.��
Inviting your friends or family to join your journey for support!

�� Whether it’s for Dry January or simply because you are detoxing for a month or two, exploring a sober-curious lifestyle is a great way to begin! Why not start your journey with some of our that makes a great alternative for bubbles and celebrations?��

���ϴ��¼� Kombucha - The ���ϴ��¼� Blog | Gut Health, Recipes & Kombucha Tips

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“A deep salmon-pink drink with a gentle effervescence and a citrus aroma. There is��good intensity of orange on initial tasting, with a balanced sweetness and freshness.”

“This is all about the clean, simple, true flavour of blood oranges -��a well made, very refreshing drink.”

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Health benefits of mint��

1. Filled with nutrients

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3. Boost your immune system

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5. Support your pregnancy

6. Reduce cold symptoms

7. Keep your mouth healthy

��ϴ��¼� Kombucha - The ��ϴ��¼� Blog | Gut Health, Recipes & Kombucha Tips

Have a holly jolly boochmas with ��ϴ��¼� - order by 19 December

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Beyond B Corp @ ��ϴ��¼� Kombucha��