gut health 101: fermented foods you can find locally

Brussels residents can now find a variety of fermented foods at local markets and health food stores, with prices starting from as low as €5 for a jar of homemade sauerkraut at the Marché du Midi.

The importance of gut health has become a major focus in recent years, with many experts agreeing that a balanced gut microbiome is essential for overall wellbeing. Fermented foods, which contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria, are a key component of a gut-friendly diet. With the rise of health-conscious eating, it's no surprise that fermented foods are becoming increasingly popular in Brussels, a city already known for its active wellness culture.

In the Saint-Gilles neighbourhood, health food stores like La Vie En Vert and Naturalia offer a wide range of fermented products, including kimchi, kefir, and kombucha. The nearby Rue de la Paix is also home to several specialty food shops, such as Le Pain Quotidien, which sells a variety of fermented breads and pastries. For those looking to try their hand at fermenting their own foods, the Brussels-based organisation, Slow Food Brussels, offers regular workshops and classes.

The Benefits of Fermented Foods

According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, consuming fermented foods can increase the diversity of gut bacteria by up to 30%. In Brussels, this knowledge is being put into practice, with many restaurants and cafes now incorporating fermented foods into their menus. At the popular cafe, Le Corbusier, a bowl of fermented vegetable soup costs €12, while a jar of homemade kimchi from the food cooperative, La Louve, costs €8. With over 70% of Brussels residents reporting that they prioritize healthy eating, it's clear that there is a strong demand for fermented foods in the city.

As of January 2026, the Brussels-Capital Region has launched a new initiative to support local food producers, including those who specialize in fermented foods. The programme, which provides funding and resources to participating producers, aims to increase the availability of locally-made fermented products in the city. With this support, it's likely that we'll see even more fermented food options popping up in Brussels in the coming months. For those looking to get started with incorporating fermented foods into their diet, a good place to begin is by visiting one of the city's many markets or health food stores and trying out a few different products to see what works best for you.