Where to Buy Raw, Unpasteurised Sauerkraut in the UK
You can buy sauerkraut in UK supermarkets, health food shops, farm shops, directly from ferment producers and online. If you specifically want raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut with naturally occurring live cultures, check more than the word “sauerkraut” on the front. Look for clear wording such as raw, unpasteurised, naturally fermented and keep refrigerated.
If you’re ready to buy, here are your main options.
Where to buy | Can you find raw sauerkraut? | What to know |
Supermarkets | Yes, in some stores. Pasturised is available in more places. | Check both the chilled and ambient sections |
Health food shops | Yes | Usually a good place to look for specialist fermented foods |
Farm shops and independent food shops | Often | Range varies by area |
Direct from ferment producers | Yes, your best option | Often gives you the clearest information about how it was made |
Online | Yes | Gives you access to producers outside your local area |
The best place for you comes down to what type of sauerkraut you actually want e.g. whether pasturised or unpasturised (full of live cultures).
Where can you buy sauerkraut in the UK?
Sauerkraut is much easier to find in the UK than it once was, you can now find it through several routes.
Supermarkets
Larger supermarkets increasingly stock sauerkraut, including both traditional shelf-stable jars and chilled raw products.
At the time of writing in September 2026, Tesco lists several sauerkrauts online, including Vadasz Raw Garlic & Dill Sauerkraut alongside shelf-stable products such as Dawtona Sauerkraut. Tesco describes Dawtona’s version as pasteurised. (Homepage)
Waitrose currently lists Hurly Burly Raw Sauerkraut, which is sold refrigerated and described as organic and raw. It also lists Vadasz Garlic & Dill Sauerkraut, described as naturally fermented and live cultured. (Waitrose.com)
The point isn’t that one supermarket is better than another.
It’s that a single supermarket can stock several very different kinds of sauerkraut.
One may be raw and refrigerated.
Another may be pasteurised and sold from the cupboard aisle.
Both can legitimately be called sauerkraut.
If live, unpasteurised sauerkraut is what you want, read the individual product information rather than buying purely from the name on the front.
Health food shops
Health food shops are one of the easier places to look for raw sauerkraut in the UK.
Independent health stores often carry smaller fermented food brands that you won’t find in every supermarket.
Some online wholefood retailers stock several options too.
Your local shop will typically keep live sauerkraut in a chilled fridge rather than beside pickles and chutneys.
If you can’t find it, ask.
“Do you stock raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut?”
That question is far more useful than simply asking where the sauerkraut is.
Farm shops and independent food shops
Farm shops, delis and independent food stores can be a good source of locally made fermented food.
Availability varies much more than it does with national supermarkets.
But that’s part of the appeal.
You may find sauerkraut made by a ferment producer close to you, with flavours you won’t see in the supermarket.
If you’re searching “sauerkraut near me”, try looking at:
local farm shops
wholefood shops
independent greengrocers
delis
farmers markets
local ferment producers
Check their websites or social pages before making a special journey.
Buy directly from a ferment producer
Buying straight from the people making the sauerkraut has one big advantage.
You can ask them how they make it.
A producer should be able to tell you whether their sauerkraut is naturally fermented, whether it is pasteurised and how it should be stored.
There are several UK producers selling raw sauerkraut directly online.
We are certainly one of them at Wild Pantry selling organic, raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut and other ferments including fermented salsa. (Wild Pantry: Build Your Box)
Buy sauerkraut online
If you can’t find the type of sauerkraut you want locally, buying online gives you far more choice.
This is useful if you’re looking for:
raw sauerkraut
unpasteurised sauerkraut
organic sauerkraut
unusual vegetable combinations
sauerkraut made by independent UK ferment producers
Pay attention to how chilled products are delivered and what the producer tells you to do when your order arrives.
Raw fermented food normally needs different handling from a shelf-stable jar.
What should you look for when buying raw sauerkraut?
The word “sauerkraut” doesn’t tell you everything about what’s inside the jar.
If you’re specifically looking for raw, naturally fermented and unpasteurised sauerkraut, here’s what we’d check.
1. Does it say unpasteurised?
This is one of the clearest things to look for.
Unpasteurised means the finished sauerkraut hasn’t been pasteurised after fermentation.
Pasteurisation uses heat to reduce or inactivate microorganisms.
So if naturally occurring live cultures are part of the reason you’re buying sauerkraut, this matters.
You can read more about the difference in our guide to raw vs pasteurised sauerkraut.
2. Does it say raw?
Many producers use “raw” to describe sauerkraut that hasn’t been heat treated after fermentation.
But don’t rely on that word alone.
Ideally, the producer should clearly explain that the product is fermented and unpasteurised too.
3. Is it naturally fermented?
Traditional sauerkraut is made by fermenting cabbage with salt.
Lactic acid bacteria naturally involved in the fermentation produce acids, which give sauerkraut its sour flavour and help preserve the vegetables.
If you’re unsure what that means, our guide to what sauerkraut is explains the process in more detail.
4. Does it mention live cultures?
Raw sauerkraut can contain viable microorganisms associated with fermentation.
Research looking directly at sauerkraut fermentation has found populations of lactic acid bacteria in fermented cabbage, though the exact microbial population can differ between ferments. (Loving Foods)
We prefer the wording “naturally occurring live cultures” rather than making broad probiotic claims.
5. Does it need refrigeration?
Raw sauerkraut is commonly kept refrigerated.
For example, Waitrose currently tells customers to keep Hurly Burly Raw Sauerkraut refrigerated between 1°C and 6°C. Vadasz Garlic & Dill Sauerkraut is also sold chilled and states that it should be kept below 5°C. (Waitrose.com)
But refrigeration isn’t proof that a product is unpasteurised.
Think of it as a clue.
You still need to check what the producer says.
6. What’s actually in it?
Sauerkraut can be very simple.
Cabbage and salt are enough to make traditional sauerkraut.
But there’s nothing wrong with adding other vegetables, herbs or spices.
That’s where sauerkraut gets interesting.
We make PowerKraut with cabbage, beetroot, carrot, turmeric, garlic, red onion, Celtic salt and black pepper.
ImmuniKraut contains organic vegetables including ginger, turmeric, fennel, turnip, carrot, garlic and black pepper.
Pick something you’ll actually want to eat.
Buying a jar because it sounds worthy won’t help much if it sits untouched at the back of your fridge.
7. Has vinegar been added?
Vinegar doesn’t automatically mean a product hasn’t been fermented.
A producer could ferment cabbage and add vinegar later.
But traditional lactic acid fermentation doesn’t need vinegar to make cabbage sour. The fermentation creates its own acidity.
If natural fermentation matters to you, look for a producer that clearly explains its process.
8. Check the lid
Does the jar have a “button pop” lid, like you often see on jam, chutney or other shelf-stable foods?
That button usually forms when a vacuum is created inside the jar, often through hot filling or another heat-processing method.
If sauerkraut has this type of vacuum-sealed lid, it’s a useful clue that it may have been heat treated.
But the lid doesn’t prove pasteurisation by itself.
Check the label or ask the producer.
Can you buy raw sauerkraut in UK supermarkets?
Yes, raw sauerkraut is now available through some UK supermarkets, but stock can vary between stores and online delivery areas.
Tesco currently lists Vadasz Raw Garlic & Dill Sauerkraut. Waitrose lists refrigerated raw sauerkraut from Hurly Burly and live cultured products from Vadasz. (Homepage)
Ocado also currently lists RAW Organic Fresh Kraut Classic Crunch, which states that its ingredients haven’t been heated above 42°C and that the product is fermented in the jar. (Ocado)
And this is why we wouldn’t write a blanket rule saying “supermarket sauerkraut is pasteurised”.
Some is, Some isn’t. Ranges change too. Read the product rather than judging it by where you bought it. Not all supermarket sauerkraut is made equally some are shorter ferments and others are of course pasturised.
Is sauerkraut from the shelf the same as refrigerated sauerkraut?
Not always, shelf-stable sauerkraut and chilled raw sauerkraut can start with the same basic process, but what happens after fermentation can differ.
For example, Tesco currently sells Dawtona Sauerkraut, which the retailer clearly describes as pasteurised and tells shoppers to store in a cool, dry place before opening. (Homepage)
Compare that with refrigerated raw sauerkraut, which remains chilled throughout storage.
If you’re interested in this distinction, our raw vs pasteurised sauerkraut guide goes into it properly.
The useful question isn’t: “Is supermarket sauerkraut good or bad?” It’s: “What type of sauerkraut am I trying to buy?”
Where can you buy organic sauerkraut in the UK?
Organic sauerkraut is available from supermarkets, wholefood retailers and independent ferment producers.
Waitrose currently lists Hurly Burly’s Organic Original Raw Sauerkraut. Loving Foods sells several sauerkrauts made from certified organic ingredients directly through its website. (Waitrose.com)
If organic ingredients matter to you, check whether the product itself is described as organic rather than assuming that raw or fermented also means organic.
They’re separate things.
What makes a good sauerkraut?
There isn’t one objectively “best sauerkraut in the UK”, taste is personal but there are things we’d look for when choosing one.
For raw sauerkraut, we’d want:
clear information about fermentation
confirmation that it is raw or unpasteurised
clear storage instructions
ingredients we understand
a texture we enjoy
a flavour we’ll genuinely eat regularly
And we’d want the producer to be able to answer simple questions about what they’re selling.
Awards can help too, particularly when you’re choosing between unfamiliar producers.
They’re independent recognition rather than proof that you’ll personally prefer one jar over another.
Buying raw sauerkraut from Wild Pantry
We started Wild Pantry after making water kefir and sauerkraut at home for ourselves as part of our own health journey when Daniel was diagnosed with a pre-cancerous condition.
Today, we make raw, naturally fermented, unpasteurised sauerkraut using organic vegetables and ingredients where stated.
Our range includes:
Cabbage, beetroot, carrot, turmeric, garlic, red onion, Celtic salt and black pepper.
PowerKraut received a Great Taste Award in 2026.
A raw sauerkraut made with organic vegetables including ginger, turmeric, fennel, turnip, carrot, garlic and black pepper.
Get the benefits of sauerkraut but now in a new form, a mild salsa. Fermented in the same way and abundant with lactic acid bacteria, this salsa's another way to add raw ferments into your diet.
Fermented Salsa has a 'Master of Outstanding Flavour' award in the Nature Made Food & Drink Awards
You can also use our Build Your Ferment Box to choose your own combination of sauerkraut and Fermented Salsa.
Our jar range is available for delivery across the UK.
But we’d give you the same advice whether you’re buying ours or someone else’s:
Check how it’s made.
Check whether it’s pasteurised.
Check how it needs to be stored.
And buy a flavour you’ll want to put on your plate.
Buying your first jar? Start with flavour
There’s a lot of talk about fermented food that can make buying sauerkraut feel more complicated than it needs to be.
Once you’ve worked out whether you want raw or pasteurised, choose something you like the sound of.
If you’re used to plain cabbage sauerkraut, a classic jar might make sense.
If plain sauerkraut hasn’t appealed to you before, something made with beetroot, turmeric, ginger or other vegetables may be an easier introduction.
Then don’t redesign your diet around the jar, add a forkful to food you already make.
At Wild Pantry, we’ve eaten sauerkraut with things such as poached eggs, avocado and sourdough.
It works with salads, sandwiches, grain bowls, baked potatoes and plenty of everyday meals too.
That’s usually a much easier way to make your first jar disappear.
Frequently asked sauerkraut questions
Where can I buy sauerkraut in the UK?
You can buy sauerkraut from major supermarkets, health food shops, farm shops, independent food retailers, farmers markets and directly from UK ferment producers online. If you’re looking for raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut, check chilled sections and specialist fermented food retailers rather than only looking beside shelf-stable pickles.
Where can I buy raw sauerkraut in the UK?
Raw sauerkraut is available from some supermarkets and directly from UK ferment producers. Current supermarket examples include Hurly Burly at Waitrose and Vadasz at Tesco and Waitrose. Independent UK producers also sell raw and unpasteurised sauerkraut online. Product ranges and local availability can change. (Waitrose.com)
Can you buy unpasteurised sauerkraut online?
Yes. Several UK ferment producers sell unpasteurised sauerkraut online. Loving Foods currently sells raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut with UK delivery, while other independent makers including KrautHaus sell unpasteurised sauerkraut directly through their websites. (Loving Foods)
Which supermarkets sell raw sauerkraut?
At the time of writing, Tesco and Waitrose both list raw or live cultured sauerkraut products. Ocado also lists a raw organic fermented sauerkraut. Stock differs by location and supermarket ranges change, so check the current product description before travelling specifically to buy one. (Homepage)
Where is sauerkraut kept in the supermarket?
It can be in more than one place. Shelf-stable jars are often found with pickles, world foods or Eastern European foods. Raw sauerkraut is more likely to be found in a chilled section. Don’t assume that every refrigerated product is unpasteurised. Check the label.
Is organic sauerkraut always unpasteurised?
No. “Organic” tells you about how the ingredients were produced and certified. It doesn’t tell you whether the finished sauerkraut was pasteurised. If you want both, check for organic certification and a clear statement that the sauerkraut is raw or unpasteurised.
How do I find sauerkraut near me?
Search for sauerkraut at local supermarkets, wholefood shops, farm shops, delis and farmers markets. Searching for “raw sauerkraut near me” or “fermented foods near me” can produce better results if you’re looking for a live product. Local ferment makers may also list their stockists online.
What is the best sauerkraut to buy in the UK?
There’s no single best sauerkraut for everyone. If you want naturally occurring live cultures, look for naturally fermented, raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut with clear refrigeration instructions. Then choose based on ingredients, flavour and texture. Independent awards can provide another useful signal, but your own taste still matters most.
Research and sources
Food Standards Agency: PasteurisationUK Food Standards AgencyDefines pasteurisation as heat treatment using a combination of time and temperature to reduce microbial flora.https://data.food.gov.uk/codes/foodtype/id/A07HV
Microbial and metabolic characterization of organic artisanal sauerkraut fermentation and study of gut health-promoting properties of sauerkraut brineFood Research International, 2022Research tracking microbial changes during artisanal sauerkraut fermentation.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36312966/
Tesco: Sauerkraut rangeChecked September 2026Current listings include both pasteurised and raw sauerkraut products. (Homepage)
Waitrose: Raw and live cultured sauerkrautChecked September 2026Current listings include Hurly Burly Raw Sauerkraut and Vadasz Garlic & Dill Sauerkraut. (Waitrose.com)
Ocado: RAW Organic Fresh Kraut Classic CrunchChecked September 2026Current product information describes the sauerkraut as fermented and made from ingredients not heated above 42°C. (Ocado)
Comments