Fermented drink

Fermented drink is a type of beverage that has undergone fermentation, a metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases, or alcohol. Fermented drinks are produced and consumed globally, with different cultures having unique traditional fermented beverages.

History

The history of fermented beverages dates back to the Neolithic period. Archaeological evidence suggests that the earliest production of wine, arguably the first fermented drink, occurred in what is now Georgia around 6000 BC. Other early examples include beer in ancient Iran around 3500 BC and mead in ancient China around 7000 BC.

Types of Fermented Drinks

Alcoholic

Alcoholic fermented drinks are beverages that contain ethanol, a type of alcohol produced by fermentation of sugars by yeasts. They include:

• Beer: One of the oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic drinks in the world, beer is made from cereal grains—most commonly from malted barley, though wheat, maize (corn), and rice are also used.
• Wine: An alcoholic drink made from fermented grapes or other fruits. The natural chemical balance of grapes lets them ferment without the addition of sugars, acids, enzymes, water, or other nutrients.
• Mead: An alcoholic beverage created by fermenting honey with water, sometimes with the addition of fruits, spices, grains, or hops.

Non-Alcoholic

Non-alcoholic fermented drinks are beverages that have undergone fermentation but do not contain alcohol or have only trace amounts. They include:

• Kombucha: A fermented, slightly alcoholic, lightly effervescent, sweetened black or green tea drink.
• Kefir: A fermented milk drink similar to a thin yogurt that is made from kefir grains, a specific type of mesophilic symbiotic culture.
• Kimchi juice: The liquid byproduct of kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables.

Health Benefits

Fermented drinks are often associated with various health benefits due to the presence of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can improve digestion, boost immunity, and help maintain overall health. However, excessive consumption of alcoholic fermented drinks can lead to health problems, including alcohol addiction and liver disease.

See Also

• Fermentation in food processing
• List of fermented foods
• Probiotic