Kombucha has taken the wellness world by storm with its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits, but there’s one question that lingers for many: is kombucha alcoholic? 

As it’s a fermented drink, some worry about its alcohol content. Can it get you drunk, and how much alcohol is actually in it? In this post, we’ll explore:

• Does Kombucha contain alcohol?
• Hard Kombucha vs Regular Kombucha
• Whether kombucha is safe for everyone to drink?

Discover if kombucha is right for your lifestyle!

Does Kombucha Contain Alcohol?

Can kombucha be labelled “yes” and “no” when it comes to alcohol content?

Let’s break it down.

Kombucha is a fermented drink, which means it naturally contains some alcohol due to the fermentation process and the yeasts involved. So, the answer is “yes” — there is a small amount of alcohol in kombucha.

However, the story doesn’t end there. Most kombucha you find in your local grocery store isn’t labeled as an alcoholic beverage. This is where the “no” comes into play. Why the discrepancy?

In the India, to be classified as a “non-alcoholic beverage,” kombucha must have an alcohol content of less than 0.5% ABV.

This threshold ensures that kombucha remains within the non-alcoholic category. 

Globally, definitions for “non-alcoholic” and “alcohol-free” can vary, but the principle is the same: the trace amounts of alcohol in properly fermented kombucha are too low to cause intoxication and it acts as a natural preservative.

So, while kombucha does have a bit of alcohol, it’s not enough to make it an alcoholic drink.

How Much Alcohol Is in Kombucha?

Commercially available kombucha typically contains less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV). This is a minimal amount, much lower than that found in alcoholic beverages.

For comparison, many fruits like bananas and fermented dairy products like yogurt also contain trace amounts of alcohol due to natural fermentation processes.

The alcohol content can vary, particularly between homebrewed and commercially produced kombucha. Homebrewed kombucha may have higher alcohol levels if the fermentation process is not carefully controlled.

Get Kombucha WIth Minimal Alcohol Content From Dad’s Hack

At Dad’s Hack, we take pride in offering kombucha with exceptionally low alcohol content(0.3-0.4%), ensuring a delightful and refreshing experience without any worries.

We have designed our production process in a way to minimise the alcohol level and we test regularly to make sure that it is under 0.5%.

Experience the refreshing taste of kombucha with our pack of 6 cans today!

Can Kombucha Make You Drunk?

Given its low alcohol content, kombucha is unlikely to cause intoxication. The small amount of alcohol it contains is not sufficient to have any noticeable effect on most people. Factors such as the temperature at which kombucha is stored and the length of fermentation can affect its alcohol levels, but they remain relatively low.

What about Hard Kombucha? Is It High In Alcohol Content?

Absolutely, it is! Here’s what sets it apart: “Hard kombucha” is a higher-alcohol version of kombucha that caters to those over 21 seeking a unique twist on traditional drinks. There are a couple of ways to achieve that extra kick.

One method involves simply adding alcohol to the finished kombucha. Another approach is to follow a process similar to traditional kombucha but with a twist—multiple fermentation stages.

After the initial fermentation, some brands introduce extra sugar and yeast, kickstarting another round of fermentation to boost the alcohol content.

As a result, the alcohol levels in hard kombucha can range from 3% to around 8%.

It’s worth noting that research into the probiotics and other health benefits of hard kombucha is still ongoing, so the full scope of its benefits is yet to be determined.

Can Kombucha Be Consumed by People Avoiding Alcohol?

For individuals avoiding alcohol, such as teetotalers, pregnant women, or those recovering from alcoholism, regular kombucha is generally considered safe. 

However, it’s essential to be aware of the small amount of alcohol it contains. To minimise intake, consider options like:

• Dilution: Mixing kombucha with water or another non-alcoholic beverage.
• Refrigeration: Keeping kombucha chilled can slow down fermentation and reduce alcohol production.

Conclusion

While kombucha does have small amounts of alcohol due its natural fermentation process, it is not classified as an alcoholic drink. For those who prefer to avoid alcohol, regular kombucha is usually a safe choice.