We're delighted you're interested in learning more about Alive Ferments and the delicious products we offer. See below for some of the most common inquiries we receive from our valued customers.

Don’t see the information you’re looking for? Please reach out to us using our contact form and a team member will get back to you as soon as possible.

WHAT ARE PROBIOTICS?
Probiotics in fermented/cultured foods are living strains of beneficial bacteria with proven health benefits, including reduced overall inflammation, improvement of digestive disorders, improved immunity, and better nutrient absorption.
WHAT DOES NATURALLY FERMENTED MEAN?
Natural fermentation is the most ancient form of preserving food.

The process utilizes bacterial cultures naturally present in peppers and vegetables to break down sugars, transforming them into lactic acid.

This is similar to the method used to make wine, sauerkraut, kimchi, and many other traditional fermented foods.

Fermentation preserves food naturally, makes it more digestible, and releases nutrients and unique flavors for us to enjoy.

WHERE ARE ALIVE FERMENTS PRODUCTS MADE?
All our sauces are handcrafted in small batches by the founding brothers, Sasha and Niccolo, in San Diego, California.
ARE AF CHILI SAUCES EVEN THAT GOOD?
No, they're freaking delicious!! And so good for you too! Our sauces are best described as a cross between a hot sauce and a salsa. They pack a ton of heat, flavor, and tang and are sure to be unlike anything you’ve ever tasted!
HOW SPICY ARE AF CULTURED CHILI SAUCES?
Our SPICY OG and CHIPOTLE have a medium heat level, scoring around 2500-3000 SHU.

With each bite, you’ll feel a mouthwatering burn backed by lots of flavor and a delicious, rich, fermented tanginess.

Our HABANERO is our hottest sauce, crafted for those brave palates. It punches about 5000-7000 SHU!
Our MILD RED and MILD Green are packed with umami flavor and have no heat at all!

We truly have something for everyone!

ARE YOUR PRODUCTS SUGAR-FREE?
Yes! Just veggies, spices, salt, and water!
ARE YOUR PRODUCTS VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE, AND NON-GMO?
Of course! We only use veggies, sea salt, spices, and water. The delicious tanginess comes from the acids released through the natural fermentation process.
DO ALL YOUR SAUCES HAVE LIVE PROBIOTICS?
Our 8oz Raw Fermented Sauces, and our 6oz Limited Edition Sauces contain living strains of lactobacillus for up to one year if kept refrigerated.

Our 6oz Shelf-Stable Sauces are pasteurized and do not contain living cultures. They are still deliciously rich in prebiotics, postbiotics and beneficial compounds released during fermentation.

DO AF PRODUCTS NEED TO BE REFRIGERATED AFTER OPENING?
Since we do not use any preservatives in our formulas, please make sure to refrigerate after opening to preserve their native flavor.
HOW LONG DOES SHIPPING NORMALLY TAKE?
All orders are shipped out from our San Diego facility. Your order will be fulfilled and shipped within 1-2 business days.

Once your order is shipped, it usually takes 1-3 business days for chilled orders and 3-5 business days for shelf-stable orders to be delivered, depending on where you live.

Don’t hesitate to contact if your order is delayed or if you have any other shipping-related concerns. We’re here to help!

HOW LONG WILL AF PRODUCTS LAST?
Our raw sauces have a 1-year shelf life from the time of packaging. Our Fermented Vegetables and Kimchis are best if consumed within 6 months from packaging. Once opened, we recommend keeping all of our products in the fridge and consuming them within 3-4 months.

After the “best by” date on the package, the live cultures tend to decline, and the flavor might change slightly, but the sauce should still be safe to enjoy! Please close the lid tightly to avoid oxidation that could create off-flavors.

HOW DO I TRACK MY ORDER?
As soon as your order is shipped, tracking will be emailed to the email address you have provided. You can track your package from the link provided in this email.

WE KEEP FOOD ALIVE!

Naturally fermented living foods for better digestion and stronger immunity.