Kombucha

Common questions

Is Kombucha healthy?

Kombucha scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This kombucha product contains beneficial ingredients like naturally fermented kombucha, oolong tea, and ginger juice, which contribute to its probiotic and antioxidant properties.

How processed is Kombucha?

Kombucha is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kombucha's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Naturally Fermented Kombucha, Oolong Tea, Kombucha Cultures count in its favor; Natural Flavour is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Kombucha

Nexba
75 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 5
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Reliance Industries Limited
Category Tea
Summary

This kombucha product contains beneficial ingredients like naturally fermented kombucha, oolong tea, and ginger juice, which contribute to its probiotic and antioxidant properties. However, the presence of 'natural flavour' as a non-specific ingredient raises concerns about transparency. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the health benefits of its main ingredients.

Key ingredients 12

Naturally Fermented Kombucha
Good

Naturally fermented kombucha is beneficial due to its probiotic content, which supports gut health. The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and introduces beneficial bacteria. It is a traditional beverage known for its potential digestive benefits.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort due to its acidity and live cultures.

Benefits

Contains probiotics that can improve gut health and digestion.

Oolong Tea
Good

Oolong tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress and support overall health. It is partially fermented, offering a unique profile of polyphenols. Regular consumption is associated with various health benefits, including improved metabolism.

Risks

Contains caffeine, which may cause jitteriness or insomnia in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants that support heart health and may aid in weight management.

Kombucha Cultures
Good

Kombucha cultures are essential for the fermentation process, introducing probiotics into the beverage. They consist of bacteria and yeast that convert sugars into beneficial acids and compounds. These cultures are key to the health benefits associated with kombucha.

Benefits

Promotes gut health through the introduction of beneficial probiotics.

Buderim Ginger Juice
Good

Ginger juice is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. It adds a natural flavor and potential health benefits to the beverage. Ginger is traditionally used to aid digestion and reduce nausea.

Benefits

Contains compounds that may aid digestion and reduce inflammation.

Probiotic Culture (Bacillus Coagulans)
Good

Bacillus coagulans is a probiotic that supports gut health by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. It is known for its stability and ability to survive the digestive process. This probiotic is beneficial for digestive health and immune support.

Benefits

Supports gut health and may enhance immune function.

Purified Sparkling Water
Neutral

Purified sparkling water is a neutral ingredient that serves as a base for the beverage. It is carbonated water that has been filtered to remove impurities. It does not contribute any significant nutritional value or health risks.

Sugars
Neutral

Sugars in kombucha are used as a substrate for fermentation, resulting in a low residual sugar content. The fermentation process reduces the sugar levels significantly. It is not considered harmful in the context of kombucha due to its minimal presence post-fermentation.

Risks

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to health issues, but the amount in kombucha is typically low.

Benefits

Provides energy for the fermentation process, resulting in beneficial probiotics.

See more about Sugars →
Erythritol
Neutral

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener. It is well-tolerated by most people and does not raise blood sugar levels. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners to enhance sweetness without adding calories.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without the calories or blood sugar impact of regular sugar.

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Stevia
Neutral

Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It is used to provide sweetness without adding calories. It is considered safe and does not affect blood sugar levels.

Benefits

Offers a natural alternative to sugar with no calories.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in beverages. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and is generally recognized as safe. It helps maintain the acidity and freshness of the product.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause dental erosion due to its acidity.

Benefits

Helps preserve the product and enhance its flavor.

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Corn Fibre
Neutral

Corn fibre is used as a source of dietary fiber in the beverage. It is a non-digestible carbohydrate that can aid in digestion. It is generally considered safe and beneficial for digestive health.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber that supports digestive health.

Natural Flavour
Bad

Natural flavour is a catch-all term that can include a variety of substances derived from natural sources. It lacks transparency and can sometimes include additives that are not disclosed. This lack of specificity can be concerning for consumers seeking transparency.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives that may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities.

See more about Natural Flavour →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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