Press Release: KBI Launches First Verified Seal
Los Angeles, CA August 28, 2025 — After more than a decade of advocacy, research, and industry collaboration, Kombucha Brewers International (KBI) announces the debut of the KBI Verified Seal for retail kombucha products — a landmark achievement in protecting the integrity of fermented kombucha and empowering consumers with greater transparency by providing professional brewers […]
Los Angeles, CA August 28, 2025 — After more than a decade of advocacy, research, and industry collaboration, Kombucha Brewers International (KBI) announces the debut of the KBI Verified Seal for retail kombucha products — a landmark achievement in protecting the integrity of fermented kombucha and empowering consumers with greater transparency by providing professional brewers with a powerful tool to differentiate their craft and offer consumers a trusted way to recognize authenticity.
For over a decade, KBI has worked with brewers, scientists, and regulatory partners to create a reliable product standard that distinguishes fermented kombucha from shelf-stable or synthetically formulated “kombucha-like” products. As the category has grown, so too has consumer confusion and with it the risk of consumers being misled by beverages marketed as kombucha despite lacking fermentation or probiotic activity.
This milestone builds on KBI’s ongoing work to establish clear industry-wide standards, including the launch of the Kombucha Code of Practice in 2020, which was the first published framework outlining kombucha product definitions, labeling requirements, and quality benchmarks.
The first brand to carry the Verified Seal is the category’s pioneer, GT’s Living Foods, which announced the decision during the company’s 30th anniversary celebration at Natural Products Expo West 2025.
“This seal is the culmination of countless hours from passionate brewers across the globe,” said GT Dave, Founder of GT’s Living Foods. “I’m honored to be the first to carry it, not just for my brand but for the future of kombucha. It’s an opportunity to help consumers better understand what real fermentation looks like and why it matters.”
The KBI Verified Seal Program establishes a process to confirm that kombucha products are brewed according to time-honored fermentation methods.
The program includes three seal categories:
- Raw (Not From Concentrate): Freshly fermented and never concentrated, representing traditional raw kombucha.
- Concentrate: Brewed kombucha that is concentrated and then reconstituted, allowing for shelf stability while preserving core fermentation characteristics.
- Pasteurized: Heat-treated kombucha that offers a different balance of taste and consistency, though it may no longer contain live cultures.
About Kombucha Brewers International
Kombucha Brewers International is the leading global trade association committed to promoting, supporting and protecting commercial kombucha brewers around the world. Founded in 2014, KBI provides education, advocacy, and support to advance the art and science of kombucha fermentation. Through programs like the Verified Seal, KBI helps ensure product integrity and fosters consumer trust across the industry.
For more information about the Verified Seal Program, visit https://kombuchabrewers.org/kbi-verified-seal-program/
Media Contact:
Kendra Sepulveda, Director of KBI: Director@kombuchabrewers.org
www.kombuchabrewers.org
KBI Verified Seal Program – Producer FAQ
What is the KBI Verified Seal Program?
The KBI Verified Seal Program is a KBI initiative that certifies kombucha producers who adhere to the KBI Code of Practice. It signals to retailers, distributors, and consumers that your products meet recognized industry standards for authenticity, safety, and quality.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any active KBI member in good standing may apply for verification. Both small and large-scale brewers are eligible.
What are the benefits of earning the Verified Seal?
- Credibility & trust: Demonstrates compliance with industry best practices.
- Market advantage: Sets your brand apart from non-verified competitors.
- Trade recognition: Builds confidence with buyers, retailers, and distributors.
- Marketing value: Verified companies are promoted by KBI through official channels.
What does the verification process involve?
The process includes:
- Submit application and initial fee of $150.
- Fill out the process form.
- Once you receive your acceptance email that verifies your eligibility, you can pay the fee according to your level of production.
- You will also submit a notarized affidavit supporting your process submission. One will be digital, and the physical document will be mailed to Carson, CA.
- Pay the verification fee.
- We will send you the seal and you can then use it on your label and in your promotional material.
How long does the process take?
Typically, 4–6 weeks.
How much does it cost?
Fees are based on company size and production volume. A full fee schedule is available from KBI upon request.
How long is the seal valid?
The Verified Seal is valid for 12 months. Renewal is required annually and involves a simplified review process.
What happens if a company does not meet requirements?
Applicants who do not pass will receive a written explanation with specific corrective actions. They may reapply after making the necessary adjustments.
Does the program cover all kombucha products?
Yes. Bottled, draft, and specialty formats are eligible, provided they comply with the Code of Practice.
How is compliance maintained after approval?
- Annual renewal review.
- Ongoing compliance with the Code of Practice.
How can the seal be used once earned?
Verified companies may display the Verified Seal on:
- Product packaging and labels.
- Marketing materials.
- Company websites and social media.
Fee Structure: Application Processing fee $150
Tiers are as follows:
- Tier 7: $2,000
- Tier 6: $1,500
- Tier 5: $1,000
- Tier 4: $850
- Tier 3: $700
- Tier 2: $500
- Tier 1: $350
- Nano: $200
Where can I learn more or begin my application?
Contact admin@kombuchabrewers.org or visit KBI’s website link for details.
English
Arabic
Catalan
Chinese (Simplified)
Danish
Filipino
Finnish
French
German
Hebrew
Hindi
Icelandic
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Lithuanian
Norwegian
Portuguese
Romanian
Russian
Spanish
Swedish
Vietnamese