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Americans drink too much.
Americans devour too much sugar.
Both of the above statements are true and supported by data. Zachary Abbott, microbiologist, genetic engineer and CEO of the company ZBioticswanted to make use of “probiotic” microbes to assist people lead happier and healthier lives.
After years of dedicated research, safety and regulatory work – sometimes sleeping on the lab floor – Abbott found a co-founder, built a team and launched ZBiotics in 2019. ZBiotics, a bioengineering company, harnesses the power of engineered probiotics to offer recent functionality to human bodies or improve existing ones. They create products for consumers who need to live healthier and take more lively care of their well-being.
In August 2024, ZBiotics raised $12 million in a Series A round. Since launch, it has doubled its sales every 12 months and has sold over 5 million units. It achieved company-wide profitability in 2023, driven primarily by digital marketing, influencers and podcasts.
With the recent financing, Abbott goals to satisfy consumer demand, expand into retail (including convenience stores), and provide a pipeline for recent products using the technology.
Take a “shot” before drinking
I used to be introduced to Abbott at this 12 months’s conference after trying its first and flagship product, the Pre-Alcoholic Probiotic Drink, in 2022. I even brought it to share at events I hosted where alcohol was served. The elegantly packaged “Pre-Alcohol” shot is intended to be taken before drinking alcohol to attenuate alcohol-related headaches and dehydration.
Science? Its purpose is to interrupt down acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol produced the day after drinking. These effects are higher often called a terrible hangover!
Instead of selling me on the effectiveness of his product, Abbott focused more on his scientific experience and motivation to lift the conversation about transparent and effective GMOs. He explained that despite misconceptions about labeling and genetic engineering technology, genetic engineering in health products may be each secure and highly effective.
Finding the customer’s need and meeting it
In ZBiotics, he saw an opportunity to fill the gap left by traditional probiotics, which he refined to acquire specific functional advantages.
Abbott’s newly launched product is based on its aim to enhance people’s diets by reducing sugar consumption. When Abbott sent me a month’s supply of their second product, the Sugar to Fiber probiotic mix, I used to be intrigued. Americans are inclined to lack fiber, often because of highly processed foods that are low in fiber.
Fiber, found mainly in vegetables, whole grains and legumes, lowers cholesterol, stabilizes blood sugar levels and aids digestion. With this unique probiotic, ZBiotics goals to convert sugar into fiber – a feature previously unseen on the market.
Abbotts launched ZBiotics because it recognized market demand for solutions that support responsible alcohol consumption and improve eating habits with accessible, science-backed probiotics. While traditional hangover cures provided limited, often inconsistent results, and existing fiber supplements didn’t address the fundamental problem of low fiber intake from processed foods, Abbott saw an opportunity to fill these gaps with scientifically proven, functional products.
Drawing on his knowledge of microbiology and genetic engineering, he founded ZBiotics to offer modern solutions beyond conventional health supplements. This focus on unmet needs has helped the brand create a unique area of interest that appeals to health-conscious yet convenience-minded consumers looking for effective, transparent and easy-to-use products.
Facing customer skepticism
“What about facing potential skepticism given the widespread negative perception of GMOs?” I asked. Abbott said many Americans are ambivalent about GMOs. Its mission is to teach consumers, highlighting how genetic engineering can function a tool to offer health advantages, from supporting responsible drinking to providing high-quality fiber to the gut microbiome.
Listening to customer feedback has been integral to ZBiotic’s success. Abbott and his team are working to enhance their products and keep users informed about their experiences and questions. For example, after hearing from consumers interested in best use pre-alcohol probiotic, ZBiotics expanded its FAQs, newsletters and videos to incorporate clearer instructions for use and timing guidelines, making the product more accessible to recent users. They also respond on to reviews and inquiries, clarifying confusion about definitions, skepticism, and the safety of GMOs. This customer-centric approach has helped ZBiotics build trust and loyalty while continually adapting to the needs of its growing community.
Before trying the Sugar to Fiber mix, I asked Zach what to anticipate. His response was to ask, “How would you feel if you improved your diet?”
Personally, I already eat cleanly and fastidiously monitor my body’s reactions, experimenting with supplements and working with dietitians. Although it’s still early, I have noticed an increase in energy and ease of digestion, so I plan to proceed using it to feel further effects.
I like ZBiotics for its modern approach to each alcohol and eating regimen. Creating breakthrough, science-backed products encourages healthier decisions and moves the conversation around GMOs forward. With rapid growth and a promising trajectory, ZBiotics is paving the way for products that support happier, healthier lives.