Stuff You Should Know – Kombucha: Fizzy Goodness

Intro

In this episode of the “Stuff You Should Know” podcast, the hosts dive into the world of kombucha, a fizzy and probiotic drink made from sugar, tea, and a scoby. They explore the history, brewing process, health benefits, and the booming industry of kombucha. Join them as they unravel the mysteries and myths surrounding this popular beverage.

Main Takeaways

The Origins of Kombucha

• Kombucha’s lineage is uncertain, with stories ranging from a Korean doctor to a Japanese fermented tea derived from kelp.
• Kombucha became popular in Europe after World War I and is still associated with Russian grandmothers.
• It was brewed in prisons and even used as a substitute for fizzy drinks.
• Kombucha regained popularity in the 80s in the US due to its benefits for AIDS patients.

The Brewing Process and Scoby

• Kombucha is made from a scoby, which stands for symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast.
• The scoby looks disgusting, but it functions as fuel to drive the fermentation process.
• Yeast from the genus Bretonomasis does most of the fermenting.
• GT Dave, the founder of Synergy Kombucha, started brewing kombucha at home as a teenager with a scoby from the Himalayas.

The Rise of the Kombucha Industry

• Home brewing has regained popularity, and some people believe homemade kombucha is superior to mass-produced ones.
• Synergy Kombucha, owned by Pepsi, is one of the biggest players in the market.
• The kombucha industry is expected to grow to an $11.5 billion industry within the next seven years.
• However, Synergy Kombucha is currently facing lawsuits for alleged mistreatment of workers.

The Health Benefits of Kombucha

• Kombucha is full of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
• It contains polyphenols that neutralize free radicals in the body.
• Kombucha is a good source of B vitamins, although the exact amount can vary.
• Some studies suggest that kombucha may have potential benefits for people with type 2 diabetes.

Summary

The Origins and Brewing Process of Kombucha

Kombucha’s origin is uncertain, but it gained popularity in Europe and Russia. The brewing process involves using a scoby, which is a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast. The scoby ferments the sweet tea, resulting in the fizzy and tart kombucha. GT Dave, the founder of Synergy Kombucha, popularized kombucha in the US.

The Rise of the Kombucha Industry and Health Benefits

Kombucha has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with home brewing becoming a popular hobby. Synergy Kombucha, owned by Pepsi, is a major player in the market. The industry is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Kombucha offers various health benefits, including probiotics for gut health, polyphenols for antioxidant properties, and B vitamins. However, the exact amount of vitamins can vary.

Conclusion

Kombucha is a fascinating and versatile beverage with a rich history and a growing industry. Whether you’re a fan of its health benefits or simply enjoy its unique taste, kombucha continues to captivate the taste buds and curiosity of people around the world.