Kombucha Scoby: What Is It and How to Make?

What is a Kombucha Scoby?

Kombucha brew includes a cellulose-based biofilm known as the Scoby which is an acronym for the Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast. The Scoby is a microorganism, principally comprising lactic acid bacteria, acetic acid bacteria and different types of yeast. Dr Michael Donaldson, who is a nutrition researcher said “The Scoby acts as a living home for bacteria and yeast transforming sweet tea into a probiotic-rich beverage through fermentation.”

What are the Benefits of Kombucha and its Scoby?

Kombucha Scoby has several health benefits that are associated with drinking this drink. According to Dr Joseph Mercola, licensed physician and health expert: “Kombucha contains probiotics, which can help balance the gut microbiome and enhance digestive health.” A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that Kombucha has antimicrobial properties that may help fight against harmful bacteria.

Adding Kombucha Scoby to a balanced diet helps support digestive health and immune functions and potentially lowers the risk of chronic diseases.

How to Make a Kombucha Scoby?

Making Kombucha Scoby at home is a straightforward process and involves fermenting tea with a starter culture. Making a fresh Kombucha Scoby helps ensure it is an active and fresh Scoby, while also giving you the opportunity to customise the Kombucha brew. Here are some simple steps to create the Kombucha Scoby:

Preparing the Ingredients

To make a Scoby you will need; 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, 8 cups black or green tea, 1 cup pre-made Kombucha with active cultures.

Boiling the Tea

Boil one cup of water and dissolve the sugar completely. This sugary solution provides all the necessary nutrients for bacteria and yeast. Once sugar dissolves add tea leaves and steep them for ten minutes. Remove the tea leaves and allow the tea to cool to room temperature.

Adding The Initial Kombucha

Pour the tea into a big glass jar that has been sterilized. Add 1 cup of previously made Kombucha which serves as the starter culture. Secure a clean cloth over the jar using a rubber band to let air in while keeping out impurities.

The Fermentation Process

Put the jar in a warm, dark place with temperatures around 20-24°C (68-75°F). Let the mixture undergo fermentation without being disturbed for 1-4 weeks. Over this time period, Scoby will form on the surface of the liquid.

How to Maintain and Use the Kombucha Scoby?

Maintaining the Kombucha Scoby and using properly are important steps in the process to be able to continue brewing high-quality Kombucha. Here are the guidelines to consider:

Regular Monitoring

Check up on Scoby regularly to avoid any signs of mould or strange smells that indicate contamination. Discard Scoby and start again if such signs occur. “For undesired microorganism growths, it is important to keep a clean environment”, says Dr Marry Shaw, a microbiologist.

Storage of the Scoby

Use the formed Scoby for brewing extra batches of kombucha. To store it put in a refrigerator jar with it covered by some kombucha you have brewed enough of. This ends the fermentation process and preserves Scoby for future use.

People Also Ask

Can you eat the kombucha SCOBY?

Yes, the Kombucha Scoby can be eaten, either raw or added in a recipe such as in a salad, or smoothie or made into a dry snack. However, it is not common for someone to eat the Scoby as it has an acidic taste and rubbery texture. 

How long does a kombucha SCOBY live?

A Kombucha Scoby can live long-term indefinitely as long as it is properly maintained. It is important to keep it in an appropriate environment and feed it regularly with sweetened tea. 

Conclusion

Kombucha Scoby is a crucial part of the Kombucha brewing process to be able to create the probiotic-rich drink and its many health benefits. As we’ve learned, it’s important to properly maintain the Scoby so it can keep on growing long-term and continue to process the drink so many people enjoy.  Continue reading to learn How to Drink Kombucha for Weight Loss?