FAQs
Whats the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?
Probiotics:
Probiotics are live microorganisms, typically beneficial bacteria and some types of yeast, that can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.
They are often referred to as "good" or "friendly" bacteria because they help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut.
Probiotics can be found in fermented foods and supplements. Common probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and certain types of pickles.
These live cultures can aid in digestion, support the immune system, and potentially alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Prebiotics:
Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers found in certain foods, mainly in plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are not living organisms; they are essentially food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
When you consume prebiotic-rich foods, these substances pass through the digestive system mostly undigested until they reach the colon, where they serve as a source of nourishment for probiotics and other beneficial gut bacteria.
Prebiotics help stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can contribute to improved gut health and digestion.
whats lacto-fermented mean?
"Lacto-fermented" refers to a specific type of fermentation process that involves the use of lactic acid-producing bacteria to preserve and transform foods. This term might be directly related to your business, which focuses on making vinegar and lacto-fermented pickles.
Here's how lacto-fermentation works:
Lactic Acid-Producing Bacteria: Lacto-fermentation relies on lactic acid bacteria (LAB), particularly species like Lactobacillus. These bacteria are naturally present on the surface of many fruits and vegetables or can be introduced intentionally through a starter culture.
Salt: Salt is typically added to the food being fermented. Salt not only enhances flavour but also creates an environment that encourages the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.
Fermentation: When fruits or vegetables are submerged in a saltwater brine, the lactic acid bacteria begin to metabolise the sugars present in the food. As they consume the sugars, they produce lactic acid as a byproduct.
Lactic Acid Production: The lactic acid that accumulates in the brine serves as a natural preservative. It lowers the pH of the environment, making it acidic and inhospitable to harmful bacteria and pathogens. This preservation process helps extend the shelf life of the food.
Flavour Development: As lactic acid accumulates, it imparts a tangy and sour flavour to the food. This is a characteristic taste of lacto-fermented products.
Common lacto-fermented foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, and various fermented condiments. The process not only preserves these foods but also enhances their nutritional value by breaking down complex compounds, making nutrients more accessible.
Are your products fermented naturally, or do you use starter cultures?
All our lacto-fermented products are wild fermented. This means that we harness the power of naturally occurring microorganisms, especially lactic acid bacteria (LAB), found on the skins of fruits and vegetables. We do not use commercial starter cultures.
Key Points:
Natural Microorganisms: Our fermentation process relies on microorganisms present in the environment and on the raw ingredients. We do not introduce specific strains of bacteria as starter cultures.
Unique Flavors: Wild fermentation can result in a diverse range of flavors in our products. The specific strains of LAB in our environment contribute to the distinct taste profiles of each batch.
Artisanal and Traditional: This method is deeply rooted in tradition and is associated with artisanal, handcrafted food production.
Potential Health Benefits: Our wild-fermented products still offer potential health benefits associated with probiotics and nutrient preservation.
Variable Results: Due to the variability of naturally occurring microorganisms, flavors and textures may vary from batch to batch.
We take pride in our commitment to natural and traditional fermentation methods, resulting in products with unique character and flavor.
Can I visit your production facility or participate in workshops?
Yes, you can! We welcome visitors to our production facility by appointment. It's a great opportunity to see firsthand how our lacto-fermented products are made and learn more about our process.
Workshops: Starting next year, we will be offering a variety of classes, including pickling classes, fermenting classes, and raw vinegar classes. These workshops will provide hands-on learning experiences where you can acquire new skills and knowledge about the art of fermentation and pickling.
To schedule a visit to our production facility or inquire about our upcoming workshops, please contact us through our website. We look forward to sharing our passion for fermentation with you!
Are your products gluten-free and suitable for a vegan diet?
We take great care in crafting our vinegar and lacto-fermented pickle products to ensure they do not contain gluten. However, it's important to mention that our Baechu kimchi does contain fish sauce, which makes it not suitable for a vegan diet.
For our vegan customers, we offer a variety of other products that do not include animal-derived ingredients. We understand the importance of catering to diverse dietary preferences and restrictions, and we're committed to providing options that align with your values.
Why does the label on your products mention the possibility of containing gluten, even if they are gluten-free?
Our commitment to transparency and safety for our customers is our top priority. While our products are made with gluten-free ingredients, we produce them in a kitchen where flour is present. This may result in trace amounts of gluten in the air. We include this statement on our labels to inform those with gluten sensitivities or allergies about the potential for cross-contamination. Rest assured, we take every precaution to minimiSe this risk and maintain the quality of our gluten-free products. Your health and satisfaction are important to us.
What is raw vinegar, and how is it different from regular vinegar?
Raw vinegar is vinegar made through natural fermentation without heat or chemicals. It retains the "mother of vinegar," live cultures, offering a milder, complex flavor with potential health benefits. In contrast, regular vinegar is industrially processed, lacks the "mother," has a consistent tangy taste, and is used for cooking and cleaning.
What are the health benefits of consuming your products?
1. Raw Vinegar:
Raw vinegar offers several potential health benefits:
Probiotics: Raw vinegar retains live cultures that may support gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria into the digestive system.
Enzymes: It contains natural enzymes that could aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
Blood Sugar Control: Some studies suggest that consuming raw vinegar may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals in the body.
2. Lacto-Fermented Products:
Lacto-fermented products, like pickles, provide unique health advantages:
Probiotics: Lacto-fermentation encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
Nutrient Preservation: This method preserves the nutritional value of ingredients and enhances nutrient bioavailability.
Digestive Health: Consuming lacto-fermented foods may aid digestion and alleviate certain digestive issues.
Immune Support: A balanced gut microbiome can support overall immune system function.
3. Vinegar Pickles:
Vinegar pickles, in particular, offer their own set of benefits:
Hydration: Pickles contain water and electrolytes, aiding in hydration.
Cravings Control: The vinegar in pickles may help control appetite and reduce sugar cravings.
Potassium: They can be a source of potassium, which is essential for heart and muscle health.
These health benefits make our raw vinegar, lacto-fermented products, and vinegar pickles not only flavoUrful but also potentially beneficial additions to your diet. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personaliSed dietary advice.
Do your products contain any artificial additives or preservatives?
Our commitment to quality and purity is paramount. While the majority of our products are free from artificial additives or preservatives, we'd like to provide full transparency regarding two specific products:
Giardiniera: We use MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) in very small amounts in our Giardiniera for flavour enhancement. It's worth noting that MSG is a commonly used flavour enhancer in many culinary applications.
Zucchini Pickles: In our Zucchini Pickles, we use Xanthan gum as a natural thickening agent to achieve the desired texture and consistency.
For all other products in our range, we refrain from artificial additives and preservatives. We believe in delivering the most natural and authentic flavours possible.
If you have any specific dietary concerns or preferences, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information or product recommendations. Your satisfaction and well-being are important to us.
Are your products eco-friendly and sustainable?
Absolutely, our commitment to environmental sustainability is a top priority. Here's how our products align with eco-friendly and sustainable practices:
Packaging:
Glass Jars: We use glass jars for our products, which are recyclable and help reduce single-use plastic waste.
Recycling Initiative: We encourage customers to return our glass jars for recycling, reducing the overall environmental impact.
Shipping and Packaging Materials:
Biodegradable Sellotape and Paper Tape: Our packaging materials include biodegradable sellotape and paper tape, minimising the use of non-recyclable plastics.
Eco-Friendly Boxes: Our boxes are made from 80% post-consumer waste, reducing the demand for new resources in their production.
Zero Waste Goal: We are actively working towards becoming a zero-waste company, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability.
We're dedicated to minimising our ecological footprint and ensuring that our products are not only delicious but also environmentally responsible. Your support in choosing our products contributes to these sustainability efforts. Thank you for joining us in our mission to protect the planet.
Can I return or exchange products if I'm not satisfied with my purchase?
Your satisfaction is our priority, and we want you to have a positive experience with our products.
If, for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a return and exchange policy. Please reach out to our customer support team within 7 days of receiving your order. They will guide you through the return or exchange process and ensure that you receive a solution that meets your needs.
We believe in the quality of our products, and we are committed to addressing any concerns you may have. Your feedback is valuable to us, and we strive to make your experience with us exceptional.
Thank you for choosing our products, and we look forward to assisting you should you ever need to explore our return or exchange options.