New Health Drink Launched

A Cornwall-based food enterprise has launched an innovative new range of health drinks; Life Kombucha comes in three flavours and is based on a Chinese recipe which dates back thousands of years.

Je Tam has been producing ‘clean and raw’ desserts, truffles, protein balls, scones and burgers at Foundry Farm in Hayle since 2014, and has developed a strong following for its tasty gluten, dairy and sugar free foods.

Founder Tam Schallhorn has now perfected her own recipe for Kombucha, and has introduced three flavours – mint, strawberry, and mango and mint.

Kombucha is made by fermenting tea (green and white tea in Tam’s version) to produce a sparkling fruit-flavoured drink.

It is a great source of natural probiotics and has been shown to have a positive impact on overall digestive health, for example by aiding the quick release of energy from food and preventing leaky gut syndrome.

The polyphenols from the green tea along with the acetic acid have strong antibacterial properties; effective in fighting the types of bacteria which cause infections.

Kombucha originated in China more than 2,000 years ago, and subsequently spread to Japan and Russia; it has recently been re-appropriated by Western food and drink culture, and is consumed for its health benefits.

Tam explained: “I’ve been brewing Kombucha at home for a couple of years, and can vouch for its great taste and positive impact on many aspects of health. I’m excited to be able to spread the word with these three delicious flavours.”

As well as its digestive benefits, Kombucha is said to support the preservation of collagen; joint collagen deficiency is linked to arthritic pain, and good levels in general help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Other reported health benefits include reduced blood sugar levels and liver toxicity, weight loss, antibacterial properties to fight infection, and improved energy levels.

Tam commented: “Drinking Kombucha every day is a great way to give your body a helping hand, especially during the winter months. When I was pregnant I also found it a fantastic alternative to an alcoholic drink, as you still feel like you’re having a special treat.”

All flavours of Life Kombucha are now available at Archie Browns in Truro and Penzance, The Green Door Health Store in St Ives, The Natural Store in Falmouth, and Sprout Health Store in Newquay.

Je Tam can also be found at the Farmers Market in Penzance and St Ives (every week) and Helston (first Saturday of every month) and local delivery or collection can be arranged by contacting Tam’s Clean Kitchen at Foundry Farm.

Clean Eating Hampers, featuring a selection of Je Tam products and Life Kombucha flavours, are also available to help kick-start a healthier lifestyle this year. Visit Je Tam’s Facebook page for more information.