How to Pick Your First Kombucha: 5 Tips for Newbies

Walking up to the kombucha section for the first time can be... a lot. The bottles are colorful, the names are wild, and the flavors sound intense. How do you pick one you’ll actually like?

Don't let the options overwhelm you. As kombucha brewers, we have a few inside tips to help you pick a great-tasting, high-quality brew on your very first try.

1. Look for "Raw & Unpasteurized"

This is the most important part. To get the benefits of those live, active cultures (the probiotics!), your kombucha needs to be raw. If a bottle is "pasteurized," "shelf-stable," or doesn’t require refrigeration, it means the brew was heat-treated, which kills off all that good bacteria.

Pro Tip: Real, raw kombucha will always be in the refrigerated section.

2. Read the Ingredient List

A great kombucha doesn't need a long, complicated ingredient list. Look for simple, real ingredients. You should see:

• Brewed Tea
• Cane Sugar (it's food for the SCOBY!)
• Live Kombucha Culture
• Real fruits, herbs, or juices for flavor

If you see words like "syrups," or artificial sweeteners, maybe put that one back.

3. Look for the USDA Organic Seal

When you're scanning the shelves, keep an eye out for that little green and white USDA Organic seal. This is one of the biggest "quality tell-tales" in the kombucha world.

Why does organic matter so much for fermented tea?

• No Pesticide Residue: Because kombucha is made by steeping tea leaves, any pesticides or synthetic fertilizers used on those leaves can end up concentrated in your drink. Choosing organic ensures your tea is grown without those harsh chemicals.
• Better for the SCOBY: The "Mother" culture (the SCOBY) is a living, breathing thing. At Brew Dr., we’ve found that the culture thrives best when it’s fed high-quality, organic ingredients, resulting in a cleaner, crisper taste.
• Eco-Friendly Sipping: As noted by the USDA, organic farming practices help protect soil quality and water purity. By choosing organic 'booch, you’re supporting a healthier planet while you support your gut.

We’re committed to being 100% Certified Organic. We believe that if you’re drinking something for your wellness, every single ingredient inside should be as clean as possible.

4. Don’t Worry About the "Alcohol"

You might see a government warning or "less than 0.5% ABV" on the label. Don't panic! This is just a natural by-product of fermentation. The trace amount is similar to what you might find in a ripe banana or a piece of sourdough bread. We ensure our kombucha stays safe for everyone to drink by removing the alcohol by-product through a non-heat distillation process. Learn more here.

5. Start with a "Beginner-Friendly" Flavor

For your first 'booch, it's often best to start with flavors that are bright, fruity, or herbal.

Our Picks for First-Timers:

• For the "Loves-a-Mule" Palate: Mountain Ginger. It's bold and zesty, and super refreshing.
• For the "Berry-Smoothie" Fan: Superberry. It's fruity, smooth, and vibrant.
• For the "Herbal-Tea" Drinker: Clear Mind. This unique blend of rosemary, mint, and sage is bright, crisp, and incredibly refreshing.

The best way to learn is to just grab a bottle and take a sip. We're pretty sure you'll be glad you did.

Ready to find your new favorite? Browse all our Brew Dr. flavors here!