Also known as, 2millioncultures1gastrointestinaltract

During my first year, my friend—while a little intoxicated—was thirsty. Unfortunately, guidance to the water fountain was fruitless. She would not drink; she wanted something sweet or at least something with flavor. In her stupor, she walked over to the Carman vending machines and purchased herself a Karma water. While releasing the cap, the tactile hurdle seemingly necessary flavor and microbial benefits, the bottle sprung a leak. She was confused, albeit amused, and a little sticky. And that was that.

I had seen these in the vending machine before and I thought they were quacked—most goods branded as probiotics are. They escaped my memory until I saw a classmate drinking one during class. I grew curious and got one from the vending machine for $3.00. 

Nutritional Analysis:

  • “Pristine Water.”  
  • Five grams of sugar. However, Karma does use Stevia rebaudiana extract for zero–calorie sweetness in addition to cane sugar.
  • Probiotic Bacillus coagulans. Considered a good bacteria to help with digestion and absorption.
  • 100% daily recommended value of Vitamin A, E, B6, B12, Pantothenic Acid. 60% daily recommended value of Chromium.

Preparation Process:

Akin to a Ramune, you have to apply pressure to the cap in order to drink. Unlike a Ramune, it’s a little difficult. The design seemingly calls for the pressure of a thumb. Sadly, my thumb is weak. It reminded me of when my friend had a similar blunder. I had to use a hand sanitizer bottle as a lance to release the probiotic flavor packet. It was fun. It was also cool to see how it was engineered—there’s a needle-like wedge that pierces a barrier between the mixer and the “pristine water.”

Taste: 

It’s okay. Not overly sweet but still sweet. Because of how the flavor is added—and maybe because of similarities in formula—there’s a Kool Aid taste. The flavor is also pretty subtle. It occupies the middle ground between flavored water and a flavored drink. Could be refreshing, but maybe not for $3.00 in the vending machine. I’d rate it a 3.5/5, maybe a ⅘ if I was dehydrated or craving it (it does have a cravable flavor). 

Two photos of Karma Probiotic Water, Berry Cherry Flavor via Author