By Karen Scott, Publisher

Wonder Drink Kombucha , based in Portland, Ore. and owned by Tetley Tea, has been introduced to the foodservice trade this year, having been available at retail since 1999 and becoming the first nationally distributed kombucha brand in 2002.

The company will be introducing its 12-ounce bottles to the vending and micro market trade in November, complementing its 14-ounce bottles and 8.4-ounce cans which the company introduced to convenience services this year.

Kombucha, a fermented tea made with tea, sugar, bacteria and yeast, has been popular for many years due to its association as a digestive health product.

The global kombucha market size is projected to reach $5.45 billion by 2025, according to a recent report by Grand View Research, and is expected to expand at a 23 percent compound annual growth rate, driven by innovations, flavor experimentation and increasing awareness regarding health benefits.