Classification of Kombucha Using Nutri-Score and Nova Nutrition Rating Scales

Kombucha, known for its probiotic properties, is prominent in the functional drinks market. However, its classification by various food rating platforms, including Nutri-Score and Nova, reveals a potential paradox. Brands may receive conflicting and contradictory ratings, causing confusion among consumers and experts alike. We conducted a statistical analysis of the global database of registered kombuchas from the OpenFoodFact app as of December 21, 2023. Our examination focused on the nutritional content and classification scales, Nutri-Score and Nova, among the 3179 kombucha brands worldwide. Examining the acquired database allows for a detailed statistical analysis of 455 kombuchas evaluated using both scales, Nutri-Score and Nova. The Cohen’s kappa concordance coefficient between the two scales yielded a kappa value of 0.0725, indicating a modest level of agreement. We observed a 53% agreement rate and a 47% disagreement rate among the scores of each. Our in-depth analysis of the 47% of disagreements identified a subgroup comprising 28% of organic or biological kombuchas with contradictory and paradoxical classifications and another subgroup of 19% of the kombuchas classified as ultra-processed products, in this case with complementary classifications rather than paradoxical. These findings underscore the necessity for introducing novel food classifications in today’s landscape, with a comprehensive evaluation framework to provide consumers with accurate and meaningful information about food.