The Living Apothecary

The Living Apothecary operates in the healthy beverage sector, focusing on producing organic, probiotic-rich drinks for a wellness-conscious consumer base.

The company was founded in Oakland, California, in 2012 by Traci Hunt and Shari Stein Curry. Starting with a minimal budget, they began their venture at a local weekend farmers' market, driven by the goal of providing healthful beverages to their community. Their initial exploration led them to combine organic loose-leaf teas with probiotic-rich kefir water. A significant milestone occurred in 2019 when the company partnered with L.A. Libations and Venice Brands, which facilitated an expansion of its retail distribution and product offerings. As part of this growth, Shari Stein Curry assumed the role of CEO.

The business centers on the production and sale of organic probiotic kefir water teas and, at one point, organic almond milks. Their primary sales channels include wholesale distribution to retailers and sales at farmers' markets. By 2019, their distribution network expanded significantly, making their products available in major retail chains such as Whole Foods Market in Northern California, select Trader Joe's and Safeway stores, HEB, Pavilions, Bristol Farms, and Mollie Stones. The company also introduced kegs to supply their teas on tap to restaurants, bars, and corporate offices.

The Living Apothecary's core products are its non-carbonated, certified organic probiotic teas, which are offered in at least eight different flavors. These beverages are formulated to be low in calories, with each bottle containing 35 calories and 2 billion CFUs of probiotics. The products are vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and made without any artificial sweeteners. Flavors include combinations like White Tea Lavender, Mango Green Tea, and Red Raspberry Leaf Ginger. The key differentiator for their teas is the use of water kefir as a base, which provides a smooth finish distinct from traditional acidified teas. While the company also produced organic almond milks with a high nut content, its primary focus shifted towards its line of probiotic teas.

Keywords: probiotic beverages, kefir water tea, organic drinks, functional beverages, healthy lifestyle products, beverage manufacturing, wholesale beverages, retail beverage distribution, natural ingredients, low-calorie drinks, vegan beverages, gluten-free drinks, Shari Stein Curry, Traci Hunt, Oakland startup, natural fermentation, artisan teas, wellness drinks, corporate beverage service, food and beverage industry