How Do I Keep My SCOBY Alive on Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you a Kombucha brewer planning on heading out for vacation? Worried about leaving your SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast) unattended and coming back to a dead culture? Fear not, for we have some easy steps to help keep your SCOBY alive while you’re away!

Prepare Your SCOBY for Vacation

Before leaving, it is best to prepare your SCOBY by placing it in a fresh batch of sweet tea. This will give the bacteria and yeast enough food to last until you return. Make sure the tea is brewed and cooled before adding the SCOBY.

Choose an Appropriate Container

When choosing a container for your SCOBY while you’re away, consider the size of your culture. A larger container is better as it will provide more oxygen for your SCOBY and prevent suffocation. Make sure that the container has a tight-fitting lid to prevent contamination.

Store Your SCOBY in a Cool Place

It is important to store your SCOBY in a cool place, away from direct sunlight. A pantry or cupboard could be perfect! Ensure that the temperature remains between 68-78°F (20-25°C).

Add Some Extra Sweetness

If you will be gone for more than two weeks, add extra sugar to the tea before storing it with the SCOBY. The extra sugar will provide more food for the bacteria and yeast, helping them survive longer.

Check on Your SCOBY Regularly

While it’s important not to disturb your SCOBY too much, it’s also essential to check on it at least once every week or two. Check that there are no signs of mold or other forms of contamination. If anything seems off, remove the entire batch immediately.

The Final Touches Before Leaving

Before leaving for your vacation, make sure to do the following:

  • Check your SCOBY’s pH level and bring it to around 4.5. This will help preserve it for longer.
  • Make sure that you have enough tea brewed and stored with your SCOBY to last the entire trip.
  • Label the container with the date and time you left, so that you can keep track of how long you’ve been away.

In Conclusion

With these simple steps, you can ensure that your SCOBY survives while you’re away on vacation. Remember to always check on it regularly and take necessary precautions before leaving. Now go enjoy your vacation without any worries!