Kombucha brewing under the Food and Drug Administration model Food Code: risk analysis and processing guidance

J Environ Health. 2013 Nov;76(4):8-11.

Abstract

Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from brewed tea and sugar. The taste is slightly sweet and acidic and it may have residual carbon dioxide. Kombucha is consumed in many countries as a health beverage and it is gaining in popularity in the U.S. Consequently, many retailers and food service operators are seeking to brew this beverage on site. As a fermented beverage, kombucha would be categorized in the Food and Drug Administration model Food Code as a specialized process and would require a variance with submission of a food safety plan. This special report was created to assist both operators and regulators in preparing or reviewing a kombucha food safety plan.

MeSH terms

  • Alcoholic Beverages*
  • Dietary Carbohydrates
  • Fermentation
  • Food Safety / methods*
  • Government Regulation
  • Risk Assessment
  • Tea
  • United States
  • United States Food and Drug Administration*

Substances

  • Dietary Carbohydrates
  • Tea