Q. What signs should I look for to determine the kombucha is culturing properly?

A. Some good signs the kombucha fermentation process is proceeding normally includes; the formation of a new kombucha culture over the opening of the brewing container, development of brown stringy yeast particles, and the liquid becoming less sweet and more vinegar-like.

For the initial activation batch using a dehydrated culture, there may be no visible signs of culturing. The best way to check on the progress of your brew is to test aroma and flavour. However, you may notice further signs of fermentation:

• The liquid lightens in color and turns cloudy
• A haze or baby scoby forms on top of the liquid
• The aroma and flavour are more vinegary and less sweet.

   

Q. How long should I brew my kombucha?

A. Kombucha can be brewed from 7 to 30 days, depending on personal preference. A longer brewing time results in less sugar and a more vinegary-flavoured beverage. Keep in mind that temperature will play a role in how quickly the kombucha cultures.

Q. Can I culture my kombucha tea in a cupboard, or on a windowsill, etc.?

A. Brewing kombucha tea in a cupboard is perfectly fine. However, do not put kombucha tea in sunlight. It is important to keep fermenting kombucha out of direct sunlight and away from excessive heat or cold. It is also important to keep ferments separate to avoid cross-propagation.

Q. If I’m making other cultured foods (yogurt, sourdough, kombucha, etc.), how far apart do I need to keep the cultures?

A. We suggest keeping a distance of at least 1 metre between items. When your cultured items are being stored in the refrigerator with tight-fitting lids, there is no need to keep distance between them.

Q. What ingredients go into making kombucha cultures?

A. Our Kombucha DIY Culture Kits are grown and packaged in a licensed commercial food processing facility using filtered water, organic sugar, and organic black tea.

Q. Do kombucha cultures contain gluten, dairy, or animal products?

A. No, our kombucha cultures only contain organic black tea, organic sugar, and filtered water.