If you’re a kombucha brewer, you know that SCOBY is the most important ingredient for making the perfect brew. SCOBY stands for Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, and it’s what turns sweet tea into tangy, fizzy kombucha.
But what happens when you’re going on vacation and can’t take care of your SCOBY? Here are some tips to keep your SCOBY alive while you’re away.
1. Find a Sitter: The easiest way to keep your SCOBY alive is to find a trusted friend or family member who can take care of it while you’re away. Give them detailed instructions on how to care for your SCOBY, including how often to feed it, how much tea to give it, and where to store it.
2. Store in the Fridge: If you don’t have anyone who can take care of your SCOBY, another option is to store it in the fridge.
Place your SCOBY in a jar with enough kombucha or sweet tea to cover it completely. Seal the jar tightly and place it in the fridge. Your SCOBY will go into hibernation mode and should survive for up to four weeks.
3. Dehydrate Your SCOBY: Another option is to dehydrate your SCOBY before you leave.
This involves removing all the liquid from your brewing vessel and laying out your SCOBY on a piece of parchment paper or a dehydrator sheet. Allow it to dry completely for two to three days before storing it in an airtight container.
Tips for Keeping Your SCOBY Healthy
Now that you know how to keep your SCOBY alive while you’re away, here are some tips for keeping it healthy:
1. Feed It Regularly: Your SCOBY needs regular feedings of sweet tea or kombucha to stay healthy. Make sure to feed it every seven to ten days. Keep It in a Safe Place: Your SCOBY should be kept in a clean, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
3. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your tea, sugar, and water will affect the health of your SCOBY. Always use high-quality ingredients to ensure your SCOBY stays healthy and happy.
In Conclusion
With these tips, you can rest assured that your SCOBY will stay alive and healthy while you’re away on vacation. Whether you find a sitter, store it in the fridge, or dehydrate it, there are options for keeping your SCOBY alive and thriving.
Just remember to feed it regularly, keep it in a safe place, and use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Happy brewing!