Having not brewed kombucha tea before, many people ask us what the kombucha mushroom looks like as it is brewing, with many of the questions pertaining to the miss identification of mold.  In the photos below are signs to look for to know if the kombucha is viable and growing correctly.
The following photos, we hope, will assist you in brewing your first batch of this wonderful probiotic cultured health tonic.  The cultures used in the photos are grown with organic sugar and tea, and are kept at an average of 80 degrees F.  Correct temperature plays one of the biggest role in successful Kombu Cha brewing!  Below are step-by-step photos:

Kombucha at 2-3 Days Click on any photo to enlarge When cultured at 80 deg F, we    see signs of growth on the second to third day.  Signs of a thin translucent film or jelly-like layer appear on top of the tea solution.  An important reason not to disturb the growing mushroom cultures.	Kombucha at 3-5 Days Click on any photo to enlarge By the end of the third day and the next few days the kombucha mushroom will start to thicken and turn from translucent to a cream coloured mass.  Notice in the photo how parts of the culture are thicker in spots than in others.
Kombucha Tea at 5-8 Days Click on any photo to enlarge As the brewing cycle passes the half way point, the mushroom culture continues to thicken. Notice the carbonic acid bubbles forming under the culture or S.C.O.B.Y. – symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast	Kombucha Tea at 7 to 14 Days Click on any photo to enlarge The kombucha tea brewing cycle is completed. The culture has formed completely and the tea is now ready to test for drinking and bottling.  Low temperature may increase brewing time. The pH should read very close to 3.0 pH
Close-up of Gases Build Up Click on any photo to enlarge Here is a close-up of gases and CO2 production. This is a good sign early on that conditions are prime for the kombucha. With just a few days growth we have a nice layer forming and the gases indicate that the yeast and actively converting sugars.	Mushroom Brewing Complete Click on any photo to enlarge A side view of the kombucha culture growing in a gallon size container. The mushroom is 1/4 inch thick and is very nice cream colour. This tea brewed at a slower yeast conversion rate meaning less bubbles and a more uniform mushroom. Notice the writing on the side, always date each batch of tea.

A kombucha brewing cycle on average takes from 7 to 14 days, however, it can take up to 30 days if the temperature is low.  In the colder months, a external heating source may be needed to keep the proper temperature.  IN the colder months keeping the pH balance correct will help prevent mold growth.  For more information on home food culturing, recipes, and finding the starter cultures you need visit our main site or store. Next week we’ll be talking about kombucha mushroom and pH balance.
Happy Brewing & Culturing!

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