Kombucha

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Common questions

Is Kombucha healthy?

Kombucha scores 65/100 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 raw kombucha, hibiscus tea, and lemon juice, which provide probiotics and antioxidants.

How processed is Kombucha?

Kombucha is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kombucha's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Raw Kombucha, Hibiscus Tea, Lemon Juice count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Kombucha

Remedy
65 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by L Catterton
Category Tea
Summary

This kombucha product contains beneficial ingredients like raw kombucha, hibiscus tea, and lemon juice, which provide probiotics and antioxidants. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of erythritol and steviol glycosides as sweeteners, along with natural flavorings. While these additives are not harmful, the processing level limits the score, despite the presence of health-promoting components.

Key ingredients 9

Raw Kombucha
Good

Raw kombucha is a fermented tea beverage known for its probiotic content, which can support gut health. The fermentation process involves a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) that can enhance digestion and boost the immune system. It is a natural source of antioxidants from the tea leaves used.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive upset or acidosis in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome and may improve digestion.

Hibiscus Tea
Good

Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which can help reduce oxidative stress. It is known for its potential to lower blood pressure and improve heart health. The vibrant color and tart flavor are natural and beneficial.

Risks

May interact with certain medications, such as those for blood pressure or diabetes.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may help lower blood pressure and support heart health.

Lemon Juice
Good

Lemon juice is a natural source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can boost the immune system and improve skin health. It adds a refreshing flavor and acidity that can enhance the taste of beverages. The natural acidity can also aid in digestion.

Risks

Excessive consumption may erode tooth enamel due to its acidity.

Benefits

Provides vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune function and skin health.

See more about Lemon Juice →
Erythritol
Neutral

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener, providing sweetness without the calories of sugar. It is generally well-tolerated and does not raise blood sugar levels. However, it is a processed ingredient and may cause digestive discomfort in large amounts.

Risks

May cause digestive issues like bloating or gas if consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Provides sweetness with minimal calories and does not affect blood sugar levels.

See more about Erythritol →
Natural Blueberry Flavouring
Neutral

Natural blueberry flavouring is used to impart a blueberry taste without adding actual fruit. While it is derived from natural sources, it lacks the nutritional benefits of whole blueberries. It is a processed ingredient and does not contribute significant health benefits.

Benefits

Adds flavor without additional calories or sugars.

Natural Strawberry Flavouring
Neutral

Natural strawberry flavouring provides a strawberry taste derived from natural sources. It is used to enhance flavor but does not offer the nutritional benefits of real strawberries. As a processed ingredient, it is neutral in terms of health impact.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without adding sugars or calories.

Natural Blackberry Flavouring
Neutral

Natural blackberry flavouring is used to mimic the taste of blackberries, derived from natural sources. It does not provide the nutritional benefits of whole blackberries and is considered a processed ingredient. It is neutral in terms of health impact.

Benefits

Provides flavor enhancement without additional sugars or calories.

Steviol Glycosides
Neutral

Steviol glycosides are natural sweeteners derived from the stevia plant, offering sweetness without calories. They are considered safe and do not impact blood sugar levels. As a processed form of stevia, they are neutral in terms of health impact.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories and does not affect blood sugar levels.

See more about Steviol Glycosides →
Natural Caramel Flavouring
Neutral

Natural caramel flavouring is used to impart a caramel taste, derived from natural sources. It does not provide nutritional benefits and is considered a processed ingredient. It is neutral in terms of health impact.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without adding sugars or calories.

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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