Distilleries and the Case of Apollo Kombucha

Victoria Distilleries Limited remains one of the most popular distilleries in Ghana: The history of their parent company is equally impressive. You might have come across or heard of Darling Lemon and Borborbor Bitters – those are two of their many products on the market. Just like any other distillery in Ghana, Victoria Distillery creates job opportunities for our people and we respect them for that.

My attention was drawn to their product APOLLO KUMBUCHA in October of 2023. The first discussion was on the name. I was to investigate whether it was just a drink or of health benefits; and also how it was made. In my research, I found out another company called APOLLO PRODUCTS GHANA LIMITED which ‘is a naturally carbonated winery based in Ghana.’ They – the second company – claim to ‘produce, sell, and deliver our naturally carbonated herbal with probiotic bacteria drink universally known as KOMBUCHA.’ The word ‘herbal’ raises a lot of questions. KOMBUCHA is a fermented beverage also known as MUSHROOM TEA, with unsupported health benefits. From childhood, we are told mushrooms are so good for the body. We were told without any proof of them actually causing a positive change in any body.

In the research that proved that sunlight is good for good health and development, rats were used. Rats have almost the same genetic makeup as humans. One rat was kept indoors for weeks whilst the other was kept in the open under a tree. The one under the tree received fresh air and sunlight. After the experiment, the one kept in the room became very unhealthy whilst that outdoors was very healthy. They were both fed the same diet. Our generation has become a ‘sick-generation’ because of western researchers. As a researcher myself, I can tell you that western researches are all about finding the minutest trace of a compound in a particular material or product: and they will jump to the conclusion that the product is good for anything that compound is known for. I will write in the near future on why cancer, high blood pressure, stroke and also forgetfulness have become so common among the youth.

Any food item that is claimed to contain compounds or have health benefits is to be proven before the FDA: so approval to be given for production to begin. KOMBUCHA is claimed to have health benefits and even cures cancer. That is a lie: Maybe you do not know what actually is called Cancer.

KOMBUCHA only contains ANTIOXIDANTS but in unspecified quantity. That compound only helps protect the body. In the right quantity they can help reduce inflammation, support the immune system and reduce DNA damage. HIGH AMOUNTS OF ANTIOXIDANTS MAY HELP REDUCE THE RISK OF CANCER, IF CARE IS TAKEN. The words are ‘may’ and ‘if care is taken.’

The fermentation of TEA, SUGAR, BACTERIA and YEAST together produces KOMBUCHA. I refered to herbal in the earlier paragraph. Anything herbal is said to have health benefits but until those are proven with test results on multiple people, we the consumers have to be very careful what we patronize.

The Food and Drugs Authority will be written to to respond to questions of interest; and to also provide proofs of cure to the general public. Failure to do that will result in changes being made at the institution. We have had issues of approved products posing health problems to Ghanaians until suspicions arise or researchers ask questions.

I do not intend to destroy anyone’s business. I am only doing what I do best – investigate and make aware my findings. I always give everyone and every company a second chance. Those who accept never regret. I give them suggestions which they follow and matters resolve in a peaceful way.

Remember, your health is your wealth. What you consume goes a long way to affect your health. Make sure you consume well: so your health is affected positively.

In the next publication on this topic, more details will be at the disposal of the general public. It is good to prevent sickness. That was the reason I formed the group BHCure, which researches into Medicine and Food. Our findings are very frightening. They are killing us with what we consume. My breakthrough discoveries will make it very difficult for consumers to fall sick or have the common health problems we have among us today. I am into preventive medication:

those that make you stay healthy. No chemicals involved: solely natural. No more Fibroid, heath problems, cerebral malaria, high blood pressure, stroke and many more. I shall write on a lot of health topic to educate you the general public. Make use of this platform to stay healthy: as I will give you all the articles you need on health.

Eat and Drink Responsibly.

By Sylvo Ben-Afa