Meet ZBiotics: Silicon Valley's genetically-engineered drink to cure hangovers
Silicon Valley is witnessing a new trend in wedding celebrations, with the introduction of ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol shots. These are genetically engineered drinks designed to prevent hangovers. The innovative product was recently distributed at a wedding ceremony in the California redwoods, where mindfulness coach Alexa Kistler distributed it among her 150 guests. "I wanted to provide the best possible experience for everybody," Kistler said about her decision to include these shots at her wedding.
How does this hangover cure work?
The ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol shot, developed by a San Francisco-based company, provides approximately 18 hours of protection against hangovers. The drink's effectiveness is attributed to a bioengineered enzyme that can break down acetaldehyde - a toxic byproduct of alcohol consumption, known for causing headaches and stomach discomfort the following day. Kistler spent around $1,350 on each guest to ensure they had a bottle of this innovative product at her wedding.
A shift in hangover remedies
ZBiotics, a biotech start-up backed by Y Combinator and founded in 2016 by Zack Abbott, a Ph.D. microbiologist, has been instrumental in changing the way people deal with hangovers. The firm's product became commercially available in 2019 and has since sold over five million units. In August, ZBiotics raised $12 million in Series A funding, which brought its total funding to $40.2 million.
ZBiotics gaining popularity at weddings
ZBiotics is increasingly becoming a popular choice for wedding celebrations. June Lee, a Microsoft gaming manager, included a vial of ZBiotics in each gift bag she prepared for her wedding party. She advised her guests to take one an hour before drinking to help with their hangovers. "We wanted people to have a good time," Lee said about her decision to include these shots at her event.
Mixed reviews and future plans
While many users have praised ZBiotics for its effectiveness, some have reported less positive experiences. Sarah Cone, a venture capitalist at Social Impact Capital, stated that she didn't find the product effective in mitigating alcohol's impact on her sleep. Despite mixed reviews, the company is planning to launch a second product focused on gut health later this year.
