Makana Beverages, Inc., Oxnard, Calif., has begun distributing its line of kombucha tea drinks, called TheBu, at Sprouts Farmers Markets and select Whole Foods Markets nationwide (in addition to other retailers).

Officials say TheBu is USDA-certified organic and comes in five artisan flavors: Tangerine, Tropical, Lavender, Honeydew, and Chai Spice. With more than 1 billion probiotics in every bottle, TheBu also aids digestion. A 14oz bottle also contains only 25 calories per serving.

"Our goal is to bring our healthy and delicious kombucha to the mainstream market,” says Gary Hawes, brew master, founder and CEO. "TheBu's fresh taste and contemporary look distinguishes it from other beverages and appeals to both new and existing kombucha drinkers. Today's consumers are looking for healthy alternatives in every aspect of their lives in order to feel and perform better. TheBu gives consumers all of the health benefits of traditional kombucha without sacrificing good taste."

"TheBu is the result of our quest for the perfect beverage," adds Ryan Mason, co-founder and vice president of marketing. "We are excited to be expanding into Sprouts and select Whole Foods, and we look forward to helping customers harness the natural balance, energy and enhanced vitality associated with our beverage."

Hawes and Mason say they developed TheBu in Hawaii as a healthy alternative to sports drinks and supplements. They say Hawes applied his background in biochemistry to improve cultures and brewing techniques.