What is a SCOBY?
What is this JELL-O-like substance called a SCOBY? It somewhat resembles a chicken cutlet and if you added googly eyes to it, it would probably look like an alien creature. But it’s really none of the above — it is however the key to making kombucha at home.
SCOBY is an acronym that stands for “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast.” Let’s break that down a bit.
First, “symbiotic” means “an interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association.”
Second, “culture” is defined as “the act or practice of cultivating living material (such as bacteria or viruses) in prepared nutrient media.”
And lastly, “bacteria and yeast.” We all know what those are. When it comes to kombucha brewing, bacteria and yeast are the wonder ingredients no kombucha can live without.
Let’s put all of that together into something that makes more sense. When certain bacteria and yeast are put together and cultured in the right environment, you get SCOBY. It’s a living culture that grows and evolves, consuming sugar as its fuel.
What’s the purpose of a SCOBY?
According to Healthline, “The bacteria and yeast in the SCOBY break down the tea’s sugars and convert them into alcohol, carbon dioxide and acids.” This is precisely what gives kombucha the tangy, fizzy taste that so many people love.
The fermentation process increases the concentration of probiotics — a type of beneficial bacteria in your gut with many positive health effects.
In fact, studies have linked probiotic consumption to reduced cholesterol levels, improved immunity and enhanced weight loss, among other benefits.
Where can I get a SCOBY?
You need to be thoughtful about where you buy kombucha SCOBY because it can make or break the flavours, texture, and taste of your Kombucha tea.
Home brewing can be incredibly fun and rewarding. That’s why here at Karl Kombucha, we offer a range of products to help you get started and enjoy your very own creations!
Get a Kombucha SCOBY brewing kit today and start brewing your own Kombucha!