A comprehensive review on the production technology and functional attributes of fermented tea with emphasis on metabolic syndrome (MetS): exploring the benefits and risks

Purpose The purpose of this study was to review the production technology and functional attributes of a tea based fermented beverage - Kombucha. Functional beverages are the drinks either nonalcoholic or having alcohol content below 0.5% and containing nontraditional ingredients. These ingredients can be minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, organic acids, digestive fibers, probiotics and antioxidants, which are beneficial for human health. These beverages are considered to be most actively proliferating sector because of their ease of product formulations by incorporating desirable nutrients and bioactive compounds accompanied by easy distribution due to better shelf life. Design/methodology/approach This review focuses on the therapeutic properties of Kombucha that can be useful in ameliorating the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Findings Over 1.9 billion individuals worldwide are overweight, and 650 million are obese, as per World Health Organization report. Since Haller first proposed the term “metabolic syndrome” in 1977, many of its components, especially obesity and diabetes, have become much more common. This study reviews the findings related to prevalence of MetS syndrome and role of kombucha in controlling its important indicators/markers. Research limitations/implications The research studies on the said topic is limited to cell lines or animal models. Practical implications A thorough understanding of outcomes of in vitro and in vivo trials along with salient findings of the human trials can be useful for its utilization as a dietary intervention for controlling MetS. Social implications Keeping in mind, the significance of ever increasing cases of MetS. Originality/value An attempt has been made to highlights the significant findings available from the clinical trials on human subjects regarding uses of kombucha as dietary intervention.