Can you drink kombucha while pregnant?

Key points

• Kombucha is a fermented tea that can contain traces of alcohol and some caffeine.
• Unpasteurized or homemade kombucha carries more food safety concerns than pasteurized versions.
• Many providers suggest talking with your doctor or midwife before drinking it while pregnant.

Why it matters

The CDC notes that no amount of alcohol has been proven safe during pregnancy. Kombucha is made by fermenting tea, and this process can leave small amounts of alcohol in the drink. The amount varies by brand and batch.

The FDA also points out that unpasteurized foods and drinks can carry bacteria that cause illness. Pregnancy can make infections more serious, so this is a common reason providers raise concerns.

Kombucha also contains some caffeine from the tea. ACOG says moderate caffeine intake is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy, so the total amount from all sources matters.

What is generally OK vs. not

• Usually discussed as lower concern: commercially made, pasteurized kombucha with a label showing low alcohol content.
• Usually discussed as higher concern: unpasteurized, raw, homemade, or home-brewed kombucha, and products with higher alcohol levels.
• Where guidance is unclear: small amounts of store-bought kombucha. Experts do not agree on a single safe rule, so an individual conversation with a provider is often the best path.

Practical tips

Many providers suggest reading labels for words like “unpasteurized,” “raw,” or alcohol content. Choosing a product with a clear pasteurization statement may help reduce food safety risk.

It may also help to keep track of all caffeine sources in your day, such as coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate. The NIH notes that good nutrition in pregnancy is built on a varied diet, so kombucha does not need to be a required part of it.

If you feel unsure, many people choose a non-fermented drink like plain sparkling water or pasteurized juice while they talk with a provider.

If you already drank kombucha

Many people drink kombucha before they know they are pregnant. A small amount of store-bought kombucha is not typically considered a reason for alarm, but it is still worth mentioning to your provider at your next visit.

Some providers suggest skipping kombucha from now on while you are pregnant. Your provider can help you weigh what you know about the product and your health history.

When to contact your provider

Contact your doctor, midwife, or local urgent care right away if you have fever, vomiting, severe belly pain, or diarrhea after drinking kombucha. Also reach out if you have any concerns about alcohol exposure during pregnancy.

Questions people ask

More questions people ask

Sources