S.C.O.B.Y 101

The S.C.O.B.Y is an essential part of kombucha brewing. It is what converts the liquid from a sweet tea to a sparkling, tart kombucha packed with probiotics.

We thought is was about time we answered your burning S.C.O.B.Y questions!

How long does a SCOBY last after I buy it?

Your SCOBY will last in its packaging for up to 6 months after you buy it, but we would recommend using it within the first 4 weeks as it will continue to ferment in the packaging which can cause the bag to swell up or burst.

Are all S.C.O.B.Y.s the same?

Not all S.C.O.B.Ys are created equal. While they all contain the bacteria and yeast needed for fermentation, the composition and characteristics of a S.C.O.B.Y. can vary depending on factors like the specific strains of bacteria present. There are also different ways to buy a S.C.O.B.Y.; ours are live cultures and are ready to brew with!

Are S.C.O.B.Y.s reusable?

Yes, one of the benefits of making your own kombucha at home is that you can use the same S.C.O.B.Y. for multiple batches. It will begin to grow new layers over time which can be split off to make new S.C.O-babies! Just make sure to keep it clean, maintain the right brewing conditions, and periodically replace the tea and sugar mixture to keep it healthy and productive.

Why did my S.C.O.B.Y. sink to the bottom?

S.C.O.B.Y.s often sink to the bottom when they're first added to the brew but as the fermentation process begins, they will usually come up to the surface. 

How do I tell if my kombucha is fermenting properly?

Your kombucha will begin to develop small bubbles as it ferments, as well as this, your S.C.O.B.Y. will float to the top and start to thicken. Another good indicator is the taste of your brew, if it stats to taste a little acidic, it is fermenting.

There’s some brown bits down at the bottom of my S.C.O.B.Y., should I remove it?

No need to remove them, this is completely normal! They are just strands of yeast that develop during the fermentation process.

What should I do if there is mold on my S.C.O.B.Y.?

Don't drink your kombucha, throw it out and start again with a new S.C.O.B.Y. Kombucha can go moldy if your brewing equipment wasn't properly sterilised or something that came into contact with the kombucha (eg. hands) wasn't cleaned properly. It is easy to spot mold on a S.C.O.B.Y. as the surface will look dry, powdery or even hairy.