Kombucha: conhecimento e consumo

Abstract

Kombucha is a drink resulting from the fermentation of teas or other sweetened raw materials, highlighting the health appeal and potential beneficial effect on some diseases. Misinformation and uncertainties can induce consumers to purchase the beverage. In this sense, the study aimed to identify the profile of knowledge and consumer perceptions about the kombucha drink, aiming to contribute to the understanding of this public. A survey was carried out through a questionnaire applied between the months of February and March 2021. A total of 347 people participated, who answered questions that addressed socioeconomic-behavioral data, and questions focused on knowledge and consumption habits of the kombucha drink. Study data were described in categorical variables by number and percentage. The results indicated that most respondents were female (84.7%), worked (74.9%), and had postgraduate degrees (52.2%). Participants believe that the drink brings health benefits (81.1%) and has probiotics in its composition (74.1%). Most respondents declare to know the drink. It was found that the consumer profile is formed by women, middle class who claim that the drink brings health benefits. It is concluded that further studies are needed, mainly in humans, to clarify the benefits of the drink.