From water kefir to kombucha, these fermented drinks are gaining popularity as refreshing alternatives to sugary beverages.
With UAE temperatures soaring well above 40°C, staying hydrated is only part of the summer wellness equation. Nutrition experts increasingly point to gut health as another important factor in maintaining overall wellbeing, and probiotic-rich drinks are becoming a popular addition to daily routines.
Fermented beverages containing live cultures can help support a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a role in digestion and immune function. While they’re not a replacement for a balanced diet, they offer a refreshing alternative to soft drinks and other sugar-heavy refreshments.
One UAE homegrown wellness brand, Saba Plant-Based, has expanded its range of probiotic beverages to make it easier for residents to incorporate fermented drinks into their diets.
Water kefir: A lighter probiotic option
Among the newest additions is Water Kefir, a fermented, water-based drink made with live probiotics. Unlike traditional dairy kefir, it is light, caffeine-free and suitable for a range of dietary preferences.
Saba’s version is available in two flavours—Blue Spirulina & Lemon Mint and Dragon Fruit, Strawberry & Lemon—designed to provide a refreshing summer drink while supporting digestive health.
Quick wellness boost with apple cider vinegar shots
For those who prefer a concentrated option, the brand also offers Apple Cider Vinegar Gut Health Shots made with raw apple cider vinegar. These single-serving drinks are designed to fit easily into a morning or evening wellness routine.
The shots are available in Cardamom & Ginger and Verbena & Orange Blossom varieties.
Dairy-free plant-based kefir
Traditional kefir has long been recognised as a source of probiotics, but plant-based alternatives are becoming increasingly popular among consumers avoiding dairy.
Saba’s Plant-Based Kefir is made with organic coconut milk and vegan kefir cultures and comes in Natural, Vanilla, and Mango-Pineapple flavours. It can be enjoyed on its own or added to smoothies and breakfast bowls.
UAE-made organic kombucha
The company also produces organic-certified kombucha brewed locally in the UAE. The fermented tea contains live cultures and is naturally lower in sugar than many conventional soft drinks.
Available flavours include Classic, Mango, Raspberry, Peppermint, Hibiscus Basil, Cardamom, and Ginger Turmeric.
A growing focus on gut health
Interest in gut health has grown significantly in recent years as research continues to explore the relationship between the gut microbiome and overall wellbeing. While probiotics are only one part of a healthy lifestyle, fermented foods and drinks can be an easy way to diversify the beneficial bacteria in the digestive system.
For UAE residents looking to make healthier beverage choices this summer, probiotic drinks such as kefir, kombucha and fermented wellness shots offer a refreshing alternative to sugary refreshments while supporting digestive wellness.
Saba Plant-Based’s range is available online and through selected supermarkets across the UAE, including Kibsons, Spinneys and Waitrose.
