How To Make Probiotic Soda

Homemade probiotic soda is a delicious, naturally carbonated drink that’s rich in beneficial bacteria and yeast. Using a ginger bug to ferment fruit juice or tea is an easy, beginner-friendly way to make your own gut-friendly soda at home! In this guide, I’ll break down how the ginger bug works, the step-by-step process, and the best flavor combinations.

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Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American, Healthy Options

Prep Time: 10

Fermenting Time: 2

Total Time: 2 10

Servings: ounces

Calories: 10kcal

Author: Capri Lilly

Ingredients

4 cups Fruit juice or tea (made with non-chlorinated water) (if using tea, make sure it is cooled before adding the ginger bug)
1/2 - 2/3 cup Active ginger bug use only the liquid
1/2 cup Sugar (cane sugar, honey, or maple syrup) Remember, the sugar will be consumed by the bacteria during fermentation, resulting in a lower sugar content in the final product.
Optional: lemon or lime juice for brightness and herbs or spices for flavor

Instructions

Prepare Your Base: Start with 4 cups of fruit juice or brewed tea and mix in the sugar. (If using a fruit juice that already contains sugar, you can skip this step or only add a few tablespoons of sugar) Make sure the tea is cooled to room temperature. Any hot drink can kill the ginger bug and your drink will not carbonate.
Add the Ginger Bug: Pour in 1/2 - 2/3 cup of your active ginger bug. Stir well to combine. Make sure to strain the ginger bug first. You can add the strained ginger back into the jar.
Bottle the Soda: Use glass swing-top bottles for best results. Leave about an inch or two of headspace to accommodate carbonation.
Ferment: Seal tightly and let ferment at room temperature for 2-4 days, up to 7 days. Check daily and burp the bottle (open it to release the pressure). You do not want to open it too often because this interferes with the fermentation process. Once a day or ever two days works best.
Taste and Store: Once fizzy and slightly tangy, transfer to the refrigerator to slow fermentation. Enjoy it chilled!

Notes

Homemade probiotic soda made with a ginger bug typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge. The cold temperature slows down fermentation, helping maintain carbonation and preserving the flavor. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed, airtight bottle to keep it fizzy!

**nutrition facts vary based on the ingredients you use.

Nutrition

Serving: 8oz | Calories: 10kcal