Frequently Asked Questions
Rebrand FAQS
Q
Why did you change the brand name Tapuat Kombucha to Island City Kombucha?
A
Upon acquiring the brand, we recognized that the name “Tapuat” posed pronunciation challenges for many consumers and lacked resonance. Additionally, we felt that its cultural significance to indigenous peoples made its use inappropriate for our family-owned business with a caucasian background.
We’ve rebranded as Island City Kombucha to better reflect our roots and our new site. Hailing from Minocqua, Wisconsin—the island city of the north—we’re proud to bring a taste of our charming hometown, with its crystal-clear lakes, forests full of pine trees, and cozy, welcoming vibe, to you.
Q
When will I see your new bottles in-store? Why do some grocery stores and online retailers still show old packaging with the black cap and the 14oz size?
A
We’re working to roll out our new look all over, but it takes time! Keep an eye out, and our new bottles will reach you very soon in the 16oz size with a white cap. You may see a mix of old and new bottles during our transitional period.
Q
Why do you have a seaplane as the logo?
A
We chose the seaplane as our symbol to embody the spirit of summer in Minocqua. Watching seaplanes gracefully glide and land on our 14,000+ freshwater lakes is a quintessential part of northern Wisconsin summers, capturing the unique charm and adventure of our lakeside roots.
Q
Is Island City Kombucha family-owned?
A
Absolutely! Island City Kombucha is not just family-owned but also family-operated, spearheaded by the dynamic sibling duo Joe Haertle, Samantha Haertle, and Matt Haertle.
Q
Have your recipes changed? Will the product be safe to open?
A
Our recipes have been carefully refined while maintaining the same flavor profiles you love — but tastier. Each sip will reflect the flavor shown exactly how you’d imagine. They now feature USDA Organic, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Non-GMO certifications for a healthier option. Rest assured, our products are designed to be safe and will not explode when opened, as long as you do not shake them before opening. Please follow the instructions on the packaging for the best experience.
General FAQS
Q
What is Kombucha?
A
Kombucha has a fascinating history spanning over 2,000 years, deeply intertwined with ancient texts and traditions. This fermented beverage is crafted from tea, sugar, bacteria, and yeast. During fermentation, a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast) is introduced, transforming the tea into a flavorful bev. At Island City Kombucha, we honor this ancient tradition by infusing our brew with carefully selected organic fruits and herbs during the bottling process.
Best enjoyed chilled, our Kombucha is bursting with live enzymes and probiotics, which promote digestive health and boost immunity. It offers a refreshing and delicious way to incorporate gut-friendly bacteria into your daily routine.
Q
What the heck is a SCOBY?!
A
Never heard of a SCOBY? It’s short for Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast. Think of it as the magic behind Kombucha. This living culture, which kind of looks like a slimy pancake, is what transforms tea, sugar, and organic fruits and herbs into the tasty drink you love.
Q
Is there alcohol in Kombucha?
A
Yep, alcohol is just a natural part of fermentation, which happens in lots of foods like miso, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. It’s actually pretty handy because it helps keep the beverage fresh by fighting off bad stuff like bacteria. So, it’s like nature’s way of protecting your Kombucha! Our kombucha has only trace amounts of alcohol (less than 0.5%) and is nonalcoholic.
Q
Is there caffeine In Island City Kombucha?
A
A 16 fl oz bottle of Island City Kombucha contains less than 15 mg of caffeine, comparable to the caffeine content of a cup of decaf coffee.
Q
What’s the deal with sugar and kombucha?
A
We’re delighted you’re curious! To kickstart fermentation, three essential elements are needed:
– Tea (made from tea leaves and spring water)
– Specific yeast and bacteria (called SCOBY)
– Sugar (we use raw, organic cane sugar)
Rest assured, our kombucha never contains artificial sweeteners. These additives can harm the health of the SCOBY and disrupt gut balance.
Q
Should I keep my Island City Kombucha cold?
A
Absolutely! Island City Kombucha should be stored in the fridge to maintain its freshness and quality. When left unrefrigerated, raw kombucha continues to ferment in the bottle. This can lead to increased carbonation, and in rare instances, the bottle may burst.
Q
Do you ship your kombucha?
A
We’re thrilled by your interest! While we currently don’t offer direct shipping for our kombucha, you can easily order it through Instacart and other grocery delivery platforms. For local availability, check out our Store Locator to find nearby brick-and-mortar stores. Cheers!
Q
What makes raw kombucha unique?
A
Island City Kombucha offers a delicious way to include fermented foods in your diet. The key lies in the fermentation process, which creates a blend of naturally occurring live and active cultures such as: Beneficial bacteria and yeasts (acetic acetobacter, lactobacillus, and saccharomyces) that can support gut health and digestion by populating the gut with healthy flora.
Q
What does “Added Sugar” mean on your nutritional label?
A
“Added Sugar” on our label means the sugar isn’t naturally occurring, like in fruits. We use raw organic cane sugar before fermentation. For some fruity flavors, we add organic fruit extracts, herb extracts, or fruit purees afterward. We only add sugar after fermentation if a batch doesn’t meet our strict sugar standards to maintain consistency!
“It’s refreshing, tasty, and a healthy choice, free from any vinegar taste often associated with kombucha”
-Riley from Wisconsin
