Log in
If you’re a fan of organic kombucha, you’ve likely heard the term SCOBY mentioned often. But what exactly is a SCOBY, and how does it play a vital role in the brewing process of this delicious, lightly sparkling drink? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the SCOBY’s importance in kombucha brewing and how you can use it to create your own batch of homemade kombucha using a kombucha brewing kit.
What is a SCOBY?
A SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) is a gelatinous, pancake-like culture that is essential for brewing kombucha. It’s a living organism composed of a mixture of bacteria and yeast that work together to ferment sweetened tea, transforming it into the tangy, lightly sparkling drink that kombucha lovers adore.
When you start brewing your own organic kombucha, the kombucha scoby is the catalyst that drives the fermentation process. The yeast breaks down the sugars in the tea, while the bacteria convert alcohol into beneficial acids. Together, they create the unique flavour profile of kombucha, with its signature balance of sweetness and tartness.
The Role of the SCOBY in Organic Kombucha
The SCOBY acts as the fermenting agent, promoting the growth of beneficial probiotics in your kombucha. These probiotics are what make kombucha a powerful drink for digestive health. When you use an organic kombucha brewing kit, you’re ensuring that your SCOBY is free of chemicals or pesticides that might interfere with the fermentation process. Organic kombucha is also free from artificial flavours or preservatives, making it a much healthier option.
After placing the SCOBY in your kombucha brewing kit with your sweetened tea, it will float to the surface and form a new layer as the fermentation process continues. Over time, the sweet tea will become tangy, bubbly, and ready to drink. The SCOBY is also responsible for the creation of the “vinegar-like” taste, which is characteristic of kombucha.
How to Care for Your Kombucha SCOBY
If you're wondering how long your kombucha scoby will last, the answer is surprisingly long! SCOBYs can last for months and even years if properly cared for. When brewing kombucha at home, it’s crucial to maintain the health of your SCOBY, so here are a few tips to ensure it thrives:
-
Always use organic kombucha ingredients, including organic tea and sugar, to prevent any harmful chemicals from harming your SCOBY. Our Kombucha Brewing Kits contain only organic ingredients - the tea and raw cane sugar that we use to make our own signature Holos Kombucha.
-
Keep your SCOBY in a warm, dark place while it ferments. Ideal fermentation temperature is between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
-
After each batch of kombucha, carefully separate the new SCOBY from the liquid. Store it in a little kombucha tea (about 10% of your remaining liquid) or start a new brew with it.
Kombucha Brewing Kit – The Essential Tool for Every Home Brewer
To brew your own kombucha at home, you’ll need a kombucha brewing kit. These kits typically include all the essentials for making kombucha, including tea, sugar, starter liquid, and a kombucha scoby. By using a brewing kit, you can ensure consistency and quality in each batch. Plus, many kits are designed for ease of use, making kombucha brewing accessible for both beginners and seasoned brewers alike.
Whether you're brewing your first batch of kombucha or refining your technique, having a kombucha brewing kit ensures you have everything you need to start making organic kombucha with your SCOBY at home.
Why Choose a Kombucha Subscription?
If you’re a kombucha enthusiast and find yourself drinking kombucha regularly, a kombucha subscription might be just what you need. Subscriptions often provide a steady supply of organic kombucha, delivered right to your door. This is a great way to explore different flavors while ensuring you always have a fresh bottle on hand. You can subscribe to our chilled, organic kombucha here.
Embrace the Power of the SCOBY for Healthy, Homemade Kombucha
The kombucha scoby is at the heart of every great batch of kombucha, transforming simple tea into a bubbly, health-boosting drink. By investing in a kombucha brewing kit or a Holos Kombucha subscription, you’re not only ensuring a delicious beverage but also supporting your gut health with every sip.
Whether you’re just getting started with your first batch or you’re looking to refine your brewing skills, understanding the role of the SCOBY will help you brew the perfect organic kombucha every time. And if you want to skip the brewing process altogether, a kombucha subscription is a convenient and fun way to enjoy high-quality, organic kombucha on a regular basis.