Kombucha that’s stored in a cellar will eventually become too vinegary or even risk bottle explosions just like when stored in room temperature. SCOBYs are present throughout the entire primary fermentation process, and unfortunately they are rather fragile; straying from the status quo during the primary fermentation process can ruin a batch of kombucha and even destroy the SCOB… The length of time you allow your kombucha to ferment for a second time depends on your personal taste preferences, the temperature of your fermentation area, and the types of flavors you've added. Tip: After 7 days, begin tasting the brewing kombucha. If you're looking to get that perfect fizz but no explosion check out our guide to getting that carbonated 'bucha. -Use long necked swing top bottles. Changes in the temperature of the stored kombucha can result in changes in the activity of the culture hence a difference in the flavor. Raw kombucha should be stored in cold temperatures such as in the refrigerator. Kombucha Bottles: Which Type Of Bottle To Pick? Mason jars are perfect for storing kombucha as they are glass made and they can be fitted with airtight lids for long-term storage. Compare the flavor of different varieties of tea for making kombucha, attached the lids on the bottles correctly, HOW-TO VIDEO: Assembling Grolsch Flip-Top Bottles, The Complete Kombucha Brewing Glossary: Baby SCOBYs to Second Fermentation, If flavoring with fresh, frozen, or dried fruit, start with. At this stage of the process, there are 3 tricks to employ. Storing Bottled Kombucha We recommend storing bottled kombucha at room temperature for no longer than 14 days , as carbonation can build up. This ensures that the glass bottles don’t get exposed to freezing temperatures immediately which might compromise their integrity due to thermal shock. Swing top bottles are not prone to bottle explosions due to their thick walls. These bottles fall under either of these categories: Swing top bottles: these are strong glass bottles fitted with a swing top bottle lid. Kombucha should be stored in airtight glass bottles to prevent the loss of carbonation/ fizziness. There are quite a few advantages to bottling the finished kombucha and fermenting it further. ). It's a good idea to burp the bottles occasionally during the second fermentation to release excess pressure. Once primary fermentation is complete, you will remove your SCOBYs (symbiotic cultures of bacteria and yeast) and have the option to take your kombucha on the journey that is second fermentation. The raw kombucha can either be bottled after the first or second ferment. These are available in 12-bottle cases or in smaller quantities as part of DIY Kombucha Kits. Second Ferment in a Bottle or Closed Container. Once opened the bottled kombucha can still be stored in the fridge for another two weeks. If flavoring with herbs, the variety and strength of herbs varies greatly. Raw kombucha can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months once bottled. The bacteria culture feeds on the ethanol and produces acetic acid giving kombucha a vinegary taste. The reduced temperature deactivates the enzymes responsible for controlling the metabolism of the yeast and bacteria culture. Kombucha Bottles. Recycled champagne and wine bottles: if you have empty champagne and wine bottles lying around you can recycle them, and they will store raw kombucha just as perfectly as newly bought bottles. Oak barrels can be used to store large batches of kombucha while also aging the brew. Clear the fresh food compartment to avoid contamination in case of spillage. In this temperature range, kombucha fermentation will still continue, albeit at a slower rate. One of the greatest benefits of making your own kombucha at home is the ability to influence the flavor of your finished kombucha, plus find new flavor blends that you and your family will enjoy. which takes for 7 to 14 days, the raw kombucha should be poured into the bottles leaving a head space of about 2 inches left in each bottle. Always store your kombucha in dark conditions away from any sources of UV rays such as incandescent lamps. Kombucha can be stored in an ice-filled cooler box for as long as there’s ice, once it melts, you can either refill it or transfer the bottles back into the fridge. If you use old kombucha bottles, try putting a small square of parchment paper or plastic underneath the cap to get a tighter seal.