Kombucha tea is a fermented beverage made by a symbiotic colony of yeast and bacteria that work together to transform sugar into beneficial amino acids. This process is similar to wine and beer making. In a Kombucha colony, the sugar is digested by the yeast and the resulting alcohol is then consumed by other yeasts and single-celled organisms and transformed into amino acids. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus and other Acidophilus cultures, often added to gourmet yogurts, also thrive in a Kombucha colony.

Kombucha tea may be made with organic black, green or herbal tea, sugar or honey, and cold or hot filtered water. Ocean Kombucha Tea is brewed using a Traditional Taoist cold plunge method, which brings out the subtle flavors, aromas and sweetness of the delicate Chinese tea leaves. The tea is fermented for up to two weeks, and then mixed with organic fruit juice or spices. Current flavors include Raspberry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Blackberry, Grape, Ginger, Mango, Cherry, Aloe, Pineapple, Coconut, Vanilla Chai, and the unstrained, untamed Raw Gold Extra.

Ocean Kombucha is currently sold at New Frontier Market (8th and Van Buren) and Red Barn Grocery (4th and Blair) in beautiful Eugene, Oregon.

Kombucha starter kits are available for $15 plus shipping. Email ocean (at) rawfoods.com for details.