Kombucha Tea: A New Spark In The Beverage Market

Kombucha Tea, a fermented drink associated with gut health and said to promote the growth of the gut microbiome, is gaining traction across the globe.

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With its multiple health benefits, the beverage giants are inclining towards this super drink. Health-Ade, GT's Living Foods, Dr. Kombucha, Humm Kombucha, Kevita, and SYSTM Foods are some of the major players across the globe. In India, this healthy drink has found its way with Tata Consumer Products launching it under its brand portfolio, Tetley.

Kombucha Tea: New Developments, Innovations, and Health Benefits

The fermentation of sweet black or green tea with a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). The process takes three to four weeks to complete. The fermentation results in a fizzy, tangy, and slightly acidic beverage. The SCOBY combination consumes the sugar in the tea and produces alcohol, carbon dioxide, and various organic acids. It creates the characteristic flavors and fizziness of kombucha.

New Developments And Innovations

Use of Alternative Substrates

The use of alternative ingredients and infusions is the new trend in the Kombucha market. The beverage manufacturers are using other teas or plant materials like passion fruit leaves to create functional kombucha. These Kombucha drinks contain enhanced bioactive compounds and unique flavor profiles.

Precision Fermentation

Food processors use precision fermentation techniques with engineered microbial consortia. It helps to enhance the synthesis of specific bioactive metabolites and functional compounds within the kombucha.

Novel Starter Culture

Food processors have started to use novel starter cultures to improve the efficiency of the fermentation process. It also helps to improve the productivity of the fermentation process.

Instant Powders

The food processors have started to manufacture instant powders for Kombucha drinks through spray drying techniques. It also helps in manufacturing innovative products.