The Zimbabwean government is considering a ban on the popular Kambucha drink due to concerns over its alcohol content, according to a recent announcement by Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Janfan Muswere. This decision comes after the Masvingo City Council took measures to restrict its employees from consuming Kambucha at work, claiming that it contains alcohol.
Kambucha enthusiasts argue that the beverage is a fermented tea product with numerous health benefits and is not intended to be intoxicating. However, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has directed the removal of Kambucha from supermarket shelves.
During a post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister Muswere explained, “The Ministry of Health and Child Care, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Liquor Licensing Board are currently investigating, banning, and licensing new beverages on the market, including the Kambucha beverage.”
A kombi driver operating at the corner of Herbert Chitepo and Sixth Avenue shared his perspective on Kambucha with B-Metro, stating, “The Kambucha number three does get me and my friends drunk so that’s why we buy it. It’s cheaper than alcohol, and the police can’t arrest us for drinking Kambucha.”
The makers of Kambucha claim on their website that the drink has immune-boosting properties, aids in weight loss, lowers blood pressure, and even prevents cancer. However, it is uncertain whether these claims have been scientifically substantiated.
The Masvingo City Council justified its ban on Kambucha during working hours, citing concerns about employees arriving at work under the influence of alcohol and other intoxicating substances. Additionally, there have been reports of employees consuming Kambucha during working hours, masking it as a medicinal beverage.
B-Metro reported that the Council’s medical doctor has provided reliable and authoritative advice confirming the presence of alcohol in the drink. The investigation and potential ban on Kambucha highlight the government’s efforts to regulate and license the sale of new beverages in the market.
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