Frequently Asked Questions

 

WHAT IS A SHRUB?

Shrubs are drinking vinegar concentrates made by combining raw vinegar, whole macerated fruit and natural sweetener. This combination is then fermented and finally strained. The result is a tart, tangy, slightly sweet, fruit-forward concentrate that is both healthy and delicious. 

WHAT MAKES SAUVIE SHRUBS UNIQUE?

Many drinking vinegars on the market are balsamic or cane vinegar based. Sauvie Shrubs only uses raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar (with the mother), which has unique health benefits. We primarily use produce grown on Sauvie Island. Locally grown, seasonal produce is more nutrient dense. Each Sauvie Shrub is fermented, full of probiotics, rich in good enzymes and bacteria, acetic acid, antioxidants, potassium and vitamins. 

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF SAUVIE SHRUBS?

Shrubs are most commonly used to support gut health by aiding digestion, balancing PH, assisting in controlling weight, reducing water retention and increasing metabolism. Shrubs are also known as a remedy for indigestion (great for pregnant mamas) and as a cure for hiccups. Beyond the gut, shrubs also boast a variety of other health benefits ranging from boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, supporting and regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels, helping prevent UTI and kidney stones and can get rid of muscle cramps

HOW TO USE SHRUBS?

Shrubs are incredibly versatile and can be used in a multitude of delicious, beneficial ways.

  • Mix with sparkling water for a refreshing spritzer

  • Add a splash to your cocktail for savory depth.

  • Make a distinctive salad dressing with olive oil, Sauvie Shrub and your favorite spices.

  • Use it as a marinade or finisher on meat or vegetables.

  • Perk up your desserts by drizzling over ice cream, sorbet or fruit salad.

  • Use in place of vinegar in pickled vegetable or fruit recipes.

  • Enjoy straight up! For optimal health and digestive benefits, we suggest taking a tablespoon a day.

WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR INGREDIENTS? ARE THEY ORGANIC?

We are a hyper-local company- living, working and growing on Sauvie Island in rural Portland, Oregon. We source 90% of our ingredients on the Island from our land, neighboring organic farms and by foraging the bounty the island provides. We are not certified organic but do our very best to source the cleanest ingredients. We believe in supporting farmers whose organic practices align with our values. 

ARE YOUR PRODUCTS ALCOHOL AND SUGAR FREE?

All of our products (excluding our Bitters which are spirit-based) are alcohol free. We use a small amount of raw organic cane sugar and raw organic honey in our products. Most shrubs contain just 1-3 grams of sugar per serving.

DO YOUR SHRUBS HAVE THE "MOTHER" IN THEM? AND WHAT IS A VINEGAR MOTHER ANYWAYS?!

Similar to a kombucha scoby or sourdough starter, vinegar mothers form when vinegar is raw, unpasteurized/unfiltered and fermented. The mother is born of good enzymes & bacteria and where you'll find amazingly beneficial probiotics. On occasion a bit of vinegar mother may develop in your shrubs. Don't be alarmed! It’s a naturally occurring process and all part of the wonderful Shrub health benefits. While not uniquely appetizing in appearance, the mother is completely harmless. It can be strained out, used to start a bottle of vinegar, or simply ignored.

DO I NEED TO REFRIGERATE MY SHRUBS?

Because vinegar is a low pH, acidic preservative you do not need to refrigerate your shrubs. Some people may prefer to enjoy them cold, but they are shelf stable and will be fine in the pantry. It is best to avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures.

HOW LONG WILL A SHRUB LAST?

Shrubs are vinegar-based, which means they have a very long shelf life. We say that our shrubs are good by two years from production time. They will last longer, and it's not harmful to enjoy them after the “good by” date, but the flavors might change and the color won’t be as bright over time. Like a fine wine, our shrubs age beautifully.

WHAT IS A ZERO WASTE FOOD PRODUCT?

All of our products are zero waste. We use the leftover mash from the Shrubs and Fire Ciders to create additional delicious small batch and seasonal products like Shrub Jam, Shrub Fruit leather and Fire Cider Seasoning Salt. We have a partnership with Portland Refill Center who takes our empty bottles: removes labels, cleans, sterilizes and then returns them to us to reuse! Customers enjoy being part of our recycling program and receive a discount for returning their bottles.

WHY SAUVIE SHRUBS?

By purchasing Sauvie Shrubs you are not only supporting a small woman-owned business but also an entire community of Sauvie Island farmers and growers. We are strong advocates of building and growing community which is why we also founded and run the first ever Sauvie Island Farmers Market, where you can find our Shrubs and many other Sauvie made products. We hope to see you there soon.

How do I pause my subscription?

Simply contact hello@sauvieshrubs.com to request a pause to your next subscription. We are happy to change your next delivery date.

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