Skincare Scientists Launch New Non-Alcoholic Beer Brand

The founders behind the microbiome-focused skincare brand Symbiome have launched a new non-alcoholic beer called HOPKIND. Dr. Larry Weiss and Dr. Julia Durack, who previously focused on the science of fermentation for their skincare products, are now applying their expertise to the beverage industry.

HOPKIND, slated for an August launch, is being positioned as a "beer with benefits." The company aims to highlight the potential health advantages of non-alcoholic beer, linked to its fermentation process and low calorie and sugar content. This move is influenced by the growing trend of functional beverages within the wellness sector.

"Fermentation is the connective tissue of life, a product of almost 4 billion years of evolution," said Larry Weiss, Chief Scientific Officer and founder of Symbiome. "Over time, industrialization has inadvertently disconnected us from the ancient and healthy microbes that were a source of our resilience and health. Increasing our consumption of fermented foods is one way we can reconnect these broken connections."

According to Weiss and his team, many existing non-alcoholic beers primarily focus on taste and the absence of alcohol. HOPKIND intends to differentiate itself by offering health benefits backed by scientific research on fermented foods. The concept reportedly emerged while the company was developing a capsule-based supplement for gut health.