Extra SCOBYs can be given away to friends, composted, used to make SCOBY jerky or fruit leather, or blended into smoothies. They are a versatile byproduct of kombucha brewing.
When brewing kombucha, a new SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast) forms with each batch. This means you'll quickly accumulate extra SCOBYs. Here's a breakdown of what you can do with them:
Give them away: Many people are interested in brewing kombucha but don't have a SCOBY to start. Offering your extra SCOBYs to friends, family, or online communities is a great way to share the kombucha love.
Compost them: SCOBYs are organic material and can be composted. They'll break down and enrich your soil.
Make SCOBY snacks: Believe it or not, SCOBYs are edible! You can dehydrate them to make SCOBY jerky or blend them into fruit leather. Recipes are readily available online.
Blend them into smoothies: SCOBYs contain probiotics, so adding a small piece to your smoothie can give it a healthy boost. Start with a small amount, as the texture can be a bit chewy.
Create a SCOBY hotel: If you want to keep extra SCOBYs on hand for future brewing, you can create a 'SCOBY hotel.' This involves storing the SCOBYs in a jar with kombucha starter tea in the refrigerator. Change the starter tea every few weeks to keep them healthy.
When handling SCOBYs, always use clean hands and utensils to prevent contamination. This will help ensure the health of your kombucha culture.