The recent craze over probiotic drinks may lead you to believe that it is a new scientific discovery, but the consumption of water kefir – a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast ­– is a trend that dates back centuries. Introduced to the West in the 1800s, water kefir is said to have been one of the traditional ingredients for the fermentation of ginger beer. Regardless of its origins, probiotics drinks are all the rage and Old Cossack is one of the leading producers of the health drink in Southeast Queensland.

Old Cossack products include water kefir, which is a probiotic that is a great source of organic acids, B vitamins, vitamin K and folic acid. Probiotics can reduce inflammation, aid digestion and balance internal micro flora. Old Cossack mixes its water kefir base with cold-pressed juices and spices to create a range of beverages that include ginger beer and strawberry, pear and apple ciders as well as coconut water kefir. Old Cossack can be found at the Carseldine Markets on Saturdays and the Brisbane City Markets every Wednesday.