Inherently free from animal products, kombucha is simply made using tea, water, sugars plus that famous SCOBY; the bacteria and yeasts that aid the fermentation process.
However, although kombucha products will normally be suitable for vegetarians, those who follow a stricter vegan diet are advised to check for clear ‘vegan’ labelling before they dive in.
This is because some manufacturers may use flavourings unsuitable for the vegan diet.
Honey, in particular, is a popularly used natural sweetener found in some flavoured kombuchas.
Additionally, certain cane sugars can be non-vegan, using bone char to whiten the grains.