{"id":2328,"date":"2023-07-28T06:09:03","date_gmt":"2023-07-28T06:09:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/?p=2328"},"modified":"2023-07-28T19:53:05","modified_gmt":"2023-07-28T19:53:05","slug":"how-to-tell-if-kombucha-is-bad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-tell-if-kombucha-is-bad\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Tell if Kombucha is Bad"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"2328\" class=\"elementor elementor-2328\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3a4063a8 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"3a4063a8\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-62170e3c\" data-id=\"62170e3c\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0a9cae7 uael-heading-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-uael-table-of-contents\" data-id=\"0a9cae7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;heading_text_align&quot;:&quot;center&quot;,&quot;heading_bottom_space&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:15,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;toc_icon_size&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:20,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;toc_icon_size_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;toc_icon_size_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;heading_bottom_space_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;heading_bottom_space_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;separator_bottom_space&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;separator_bottom_space_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;separator_bottom_space_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;content_between_space&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:15,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;content_between_space_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;content_between_space_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"uael-table-of-contents.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-main-wrapper content-show\" data-headings=\"h1,h2,h3\" >\n\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-toc-heading elementor-inline-editing\" data-elementor-setting-key=\"heading_title\" data-elementor-inline-editing-toolbar=\"basic\" >Table of Contents<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-switch\" data-hideshow=\"yes\" data-is-collapsible=\"yes\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-icon fa\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-toggle-content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ol data-toc-headings=\"headings\" class=\"uael-toc-list\" data-scroll=\"\" ><\/ol>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uael-toc-empty-note\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span>Add a header to begin generating the table of contents<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-298d12f6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"298d12f6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<style>\/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 30-04-2024 *\/\n.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block}<\/style>\t\t\t\t<p>Kombucha, a fermented tea beverage, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits and unique flavor. While it is generally safe to consume, there are instances when kombucha may go bad, resulting in potential health risks.<\/p><p>Understanding the signs of spoilage is crucial to ensure the quality and safety of the beverage.<\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-long-does-kombucha-take-to-ferment\/\">Kombucha is created through fermentation<\/a>, where a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) metabolizes sugars in tea, producing probiotics, acids, and carbonation.<\/p><p>If not properly brewed or stored, kombucha can spoil, compromising its taste and safety.<\/p><p>Several signs may indicate that your kombucha has gone bad. Off-putting odor, mold growth, strange texture or appearance, unpleasant taste, excessive carbonation, and excessive alcohol content indicate potential spoilage.<\/p><p>You can perform a visual inspection, smell, and <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-make-kombucha-taste-better\/\">taste tests to determine if your kombucha<\/a> is no longer suitable for consumption.<\/p><p>If you observe any visible signs of mold or an off-putting odor, or if the taste has turned distinctly sour, it is best to discard the batch.<\/p><p>If you discover that your kombucha has gone bad, it is essential to take appropriate measures. Properly disposing of the spoiled batch and thoroughly cleaning the brewing equipment can help prevent contamination and maintain the integrity of future batches.<\/p><p>When consuming kombucha, it is important to practice safety precautions. This includes using clean and sanitized utensils, brewing vessels, and storage containers.<\/p><p>Monitoring the fermentation process, ensuring optimal brewing conditions, and regularly taste-testing to prevent potential health risks are also advisable.<\/p><p>By being aware of the signs of spoilage and taking necessary precautions, you can continue enjoying kombucha&#8217;s benefits while prioritizing your health and well-being.<\/p><div class=\"keytakeaways\" style=\"background: #F6F1F1; margin: 0 auto; display: table; padding: 30px; margin-top: 50px; margin-bottom: 50px; border-radius: 4px; max-width: 720px;\"><h2>Key takeaways:<\/h2><div class=\"keytakeaways_body\" style=\"display: flex; font-size: 16px;\"><ul><li>Off-putting odor: If your kombucha has a strange or foul smell, it may have gone not good and should not be consumed.<\/li><li>Mold growth: The presence of mold on the surface of your kombucha indicates spoilage and should be discarded.<\/li><li>Strange texture or appearance: Any sliminess or unusual appearance in your kombucha may be a sign of spoilage and should be avoided.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/wqnMtfl022g\" width=\"500\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><h2>What is Kombucha?<\/h2><p><strong>Kombucha<\/strong> is a fermented tea beverage. It is made by adding a culture of bacteria and yeast, called a <strong>SCOBY<\/strong>, to sweetened tea.<\/p><p>The <strong>SCOBY<\/strong> consumes sugar in the tea and produces carbon dioxide, alcohol, and acids during fermentation.<\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/why-does-kombucha-taste-like-vinegar\/\">Kombucha has a tangy and slightly effervescent taste<\/a>, which varies based on ingredients and fermentation time.<\/p><p>People <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-often-to-drink-kombucha-for-gut-health\/\">drink <strong>kombucha<\/strong> for its potential health<\/a> benefits, as it contains probiotics and antioxidants.<\/p><p>It is a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks or alcohol.<\/p><p>It is important to consume <strong>kombucha<\/strong> in moderation as part of a balanced diet, as it is not a cure-all.<\/p><h2>Understanding the Fermentation Process<\/h2><p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ea3c77witr7.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/how-to-tell-if-kombucha-is-badha70.jpg-R2KM.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&resize=768%2C512&ssl=1\" alt=\"Understanding the Fermentation Process - how to tell if kombucha is bad \" width=\"768\" height=\"512\" \/><\/p><p style=\"font-size: 12px; font-family: Arial;\"><em>Photo Credits: Standardkombucha.Com by Ralph Clark<\/em><\/p><p>Understanding the fermentation process is crucial for making kombucha. During fermentation, yeast and bacteria break down sugars in the tea to produce alcohol and carbon dioxide.<\/p><p>This process creates the <strong>tangy, <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-make-kombucha-fizzy\/\">fizzy taste and unique health benefits of kombucha<\/a>. The fermentation process typically takes 7-14 days but can vary based on temperature and starter culture strength.<\/p><p>Monitoring fermentation by regularly tasting the <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-flavor-kombucha\/\">kombucha ensures it reaches the desired flavor<\/a> and acidity. Once the desired level is achieved, refrigerating the kombucha stops the fermentation.<\/p><p>Understanding the fermentation process allows for consistently delicious and properly fermented kombucha.<\/p><p>Kombucha has a history dating back over 2,000 years. It is believed to have originated in ancient China, known as the &#8220;<em>Tea of Immortality<\/em>&#8221; for its health benefits.<\/p><p>It later spread to other parts of Asia and eventually reached Europe and America. While its exact origins and early practices are unclear, <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/what-probiotics-are-in-kombucha\/\">kombucha has gained global popularity recently for its probiotic<\/a> benefits and unique taste.<\/p><p>Today, millions of people enjoy kombucha as a refreshing and healthful beverage. Its rich history highlights the power of fermentation and the tradition of using natural ingredients for well-being.<\/p><h2>Signs That Kombucha May Be Bad<\/h2><p>If you&#8217;re a kombucha enthusiast, you know how important it is to watch for any signs that your brew may have gone sour. This section uncovers the telltale indicators that your kombucha may be past its prime.<\/p><p>From off-putting odors and strange textures to unpleasant tastes and excessive carbonation, we&#8217;ll explore the <strong>red flags<\/strong> that could signal the end of your kombucha&#8217;s journey. It&#8217;s time to sharpen our senses and become kombucha <strong>detectives<\/strong>!<\/p><h3>1. Off-putting Odor<\/h3><p>An off-putting odor is a sign that kombucha may be bad. During fermentation, kombucha typically has a slightly <strong>vinegary smell<\/strong>, which is normal. If the odor is <strong>foul<\/strong> or smells like <em>rotten eggs<\/em>, it indicates that the kombucha has gone bad.<\/p><h3>2. Mold Growth<\/h3><p>Mold growth in kombucha is a frequently observed indication that it has spoiled. If you spot <strong>mold<\/strong> on your kombucha, promptly dispose of it. Mold can manifest in <strong>black<\/strong>, <strong>green<\/strong>, or <strong>white<\/strong> color and might have a <strong>fuzzy<\/strong> or <strong>powdery<\/strong> appearance.<\/p><p>Ingesting mold-contaminated kombucha can lead to health complications, such as digestive issues and allergies. Typically, mold growth in kombucha occurs due to errors in brewing or contamination during fermentation.<\/p><p>It is advisable to regularly inspect your kombucha for mold to ensure its safety for consumption.<\/p><h3>3. Strange Texture or Appearance<\/h3><p>Observing a <strong>strange texture or appearance<\/strong> in your kombucha may indicate an issue with fermentation. Refer to the table below for various textures and appearances and their possible causes:<\/p><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Strange Texture or Appearance<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Possible Cause<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Slime or jelly-like<\/strong><\/td><td>Excess bacteria or yeast<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Stringy or rope-like<\/strong><\/td><td>Formation of a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Fuzzy or hairy<\/strong><\/td><td>Potential mold growth<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sediment or particles<\/strong><\/td><td>Natural fermentation byproducts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Cloudy or murky<\/strong><\/td><td>Increased yeast activity<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p>If you notice any of the mentioned textures or appearances in your kombucha, proceed cautiously. While some variations are normal, others may indicate spoilage. Ensure safety by following these steps:<\/p><p><strong>1. Visually inspect<\/strong> the kombucha for mold growth or other abnormal changes.<\/p><p><strong>2. Smell<\/strong> the kombucha for any unpleasant odors.<\/p><p><strong>3. Take a small sip<\/strong> to assess the taste. Discard if it tastes foul or has an unusual flavor.<\/p><p><strong>Pro-tip:<\/strong> When in doubt about the quality of your kombucha, it&#8217;s best to err on the side of caution and discard it to avoid potential health risks.<\/p><h3>4. Unpleasant Taste<\/h3><p>An unpleasant <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/what-does-kombucha-taste-like\/\">taste in kombucha<\/a> can indicate fermentation issues or poor ingredient quality. Consider the following regarding the taste:<\/p><p>1. <strong>Unpleasant taste:<\/strong> An unpleasant taste suggests unsuccessful fermentation or low-quality tea. It can manifest as sour, vinegary, sweet, or bitter.<\/p><p>2. <strong>Off-flavors:<\/strong> Undesirable flavors, such as strong vinegar, metallic, chemical, or rancid tastes, may indicate spoilage or contamination.<\/p><p>3. <strong>Possible causes:<\/strong> Various factors, including improper fermentation temperatures, extended fermentation periods, unwanted bacteria or yeast, or low-quality ingredients, can contribute to an unpleasant taste.<\/p><p>4. <strong>Quality control:<\/strong> To avoid an unpleasant taste, it is important to maintain cleanliness, use high-quality tea and sugar, ferment at the appropriate temperature, and monitor fermentation time.<\/p><p>5. <strong>Safety:<\/strong> Avoid consuming kombucha with an unpleasant taste is advisable to prevent potential digestive issues or health problems.<\/p><p>You can enjoy a high-quality and safe beverage by being attentive to the taste. If you encounter an unpleasant taste, it is recommended to consult a kombucha brewing expert or discard the batch to mitigate any potential health risks.<\/p><h3>5. Excessive Carbonation<\/h3><p>Excessive carbonation in kombucha, which can be caused by over-fermentation, improper storage, or a longer fermentation period, indicates spoilage. When there are high levels of carbonation, it results in a <strong>fizzy<\/strong> taste and a <strong>strong<\/strong> carbonation sensation.<\/p><p>The bottle may also risk leaking or exploding due to increased pressure. Therefore, handling the bottle cautiously and releasing the pressure slowly before opening it is important when you observe excessive carbonation.<\/p><p>Excessive carbonation not only affects the taste but also presents potential safety hazards.<\/p><h3>6. Excessive Alcohol Content<\/h3><p>Excessive <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-remove-alcohol-from-kombucha\/\">alcohol content in kombucha<\/a> can result from prolonged fermentation or improper brewing techniques. It is crucial to be cautious about the <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-make-alcoholic-kombucha\/\">alcohol levels in your kombucha<\/a> drink, especially if you are sensitive to alcohol or if children or pregnant individuals will consume it.<\/p><p>To ensure you are well informed about the <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-much-alcohol-is-in-kombucha\/\">alcohol levels in kombucha<\/a>, check the label of the brands you choose. Look for kombucha brands that clearly state the <strong>alcohol content<\/strong> on their labels. This will help you make an informed decision and be aware of the alcohol levels in the drink.<\/p><p>If you are concerned about the alcohol content in kombucha, it is advisable to limit your consumption or opt for <strong>kombucha brands with lower alcohol levels<\/strong>. By doing so, you can enjoy kombucha while keeping your alcohol intake under control.<\/p><p>If you brew your kombucha at home, it is essential to monitor the <strong>fermentation time<\/strong>. Follow the recommended fermentation <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/when-is-the-best-time-to-drink-kombucha\/\">time to prevent a higher alcohol content in your homemade kombucha<\/a>. This way, you can maintain a suitable alcohol level in your drink.<\/p><p>For those who want to avoid alcohol completely, <strong>alcohol-free versions of kombucha<\/strong> are available. These alternative options provide the health benefits of kombucha without any alcohol content. You can enjoy the goodness of kombucha while remaining alcohol-free.<\/p><p>To illustrate the importance of being mindful of the alcohol content in kombucha, here&#8217;s a true story\u2014an individual with a low alcohol tolerance unknowingly consumed kombucha with excessive alcohol content. As a result, they experienced <em>lightheadedness and dizziness<\/em> after consuming a small amount. This story serves as a reminder always to be aware of the alcohol content in kombucha and read labels carefully before making a purchase.<\/p><h2>How to Tell If Your Kombucha Has Gone Bad<\/h2><p><strong>Curious about the freshness of your kombucha?<\/strong> Let&#8217;s dive into detecting whether your beloved brew has gone bad. From visually inspecting its appearance to testing your nose and taste buds, we&#8217;ll explore the <strong>telltale signs<\/strong> that can help you discern if your kombucha is still in its prime.<\/p><p>So, grab your glass and join us on this journey of <strong>unraveling<\/strong> the secrets behind a <strong>delectable<\/strong> and <strong>safe<\/strong> kombucha experience.<\/p><h3>1. Visual Inspection<\/h3><p>When visually inspecting your kombucha, it is important to follow these steps:<\/p><p>1. Perform a visual inspection to check for any unusual coloration in the liquid. Kombucha should be translucent, ranging from <strong>light amber to dark brown<\/strong>.<\/p><p>2. Look for any signs of mold growth on the liquid or around the <strong>SCOBY<\/strong> (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). Mold can present itself as <strong>fuzzy patches, spots, or discoloration<\/strong>.<\/p><p>3. Observe the texture of the <strong>SCOBY<\/strong> during the visual inspection. A healthy <strong>SCOBY<\/strong> should appear slightly <strong>firm, smooth,<\/strong> and <strong>jelly-like<\/strong>.<\/p><p>4. Inspect the clarity of the liquid during the visual inspection. It should be free from <strong>floating debris or sediment<\/strong>.<\/p><p>5. Pay attention to any signs of <strong>excessive carbonation<\/strong>, such as <strong>bulging or swollen containers<\/strong>, as this may indicate over-fermentation.<\/p><p>6. Check for any <strong>off-putting or foul odors<\/strong> during the visual inspection. Ideally, kombucha should have a slightly <strong>tangy, vinegar-like aroma<\/strong>. However, <strong>strong or unpleasant smells<\/strong> may indicate spoilage.<\/p><p>Remember, visual inspection is just one method to assess the quality of your kombucha. It is also recommended to perform smell and taste tests to ensure safety and palatability.<\/p><p>If abnormalities are noticed during the visual inspection, it is best to dispose of the batch to prevent the risk of consuming spoiled kombucha.<\/p><h3>2. Smell Test<\/h3><p>To perform the smell test on your kombucha, use your senses to determine if the beverage has spoiled. Below is a table that outlines what to observe:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Smell Test: Description<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>1. Unpleasant Odor:<\/strong> If the kombucha gives off a <strong>strong vinegar<\/strong> or <strong>rotten fruit<\/strong> smell, it could indicate spoilage.<\/li><li><strong>2. Presence of Mold:<\/strong> If you notice any visible mold growth on the surface or inside the kombucha, it is no longer safe to consume.<\/li><li><strong>3. Abnormal Texture or Appearance:<\/strong> If the kombucha seems <strong>slimy<\/strong>, <strong>chunky<\/strong>, or cloudy, it suggests contamination by microbes.<\/li><\/ul><p>Rely on your senses when evaluating the aroma of your kombucha. If you notice any of these indicators, it is recommended to discard the beverage to avoid potential health risks.<\/p><p>To maintain the freshness and quality of your kombucha, store it in a cool, dark place and consume it within a reasonable timeframe. Regularly inspect your kombucha and perform the smell test to ensure a safe and delightful beverage.<\/p><h3>3. Taste Test<\/h3><p>To taste test your kombucha, follow these steps:<\/p><ol><li><strong>Pour a small amount of kombucha into a glass.<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Observe the appearance of the kombucha, looking for fizziness and sediment at the bottom.<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Smell the kombucha, noting a tangy, slightly sour aroma. If any unpleasant odors are detected, the kombucha may be spoiled.<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Take a sip and notice the taste. It should be refreshing, slightly tart, and slightly sweet. It is spoiled if it tastes overwhelmingly sour, rotten, or unpleasant.<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Pay attention to the carbonation levels, which should be gently effervescent with small bubbles. Excessive carbonation may indicate improper fermentation or storage.<\/strong><\/li><li><strong>Consider any changes in flavor. Significant differences compared to previous batches or other well-made kombuchas may indicate spoilage.<\/strong><\/li><\/ol><p><strong>Performing a taste test is crucial for determining the quality and freshness of your kombucha. Use your senses of sight, smell, and taste to ensure your <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-drink-kombucha\/\">kombucha is safe and enjoyable to drink.<\/a><\/p><p><strong>Fact:<\/strong> Kombucha is a probiotic beverage that ferments, producing beneficial bacteria and organic acids. The taste varies depending on the brewing process and flavors added during fermentation.<\/p><h2>What to Do If Your Kombucha Is Bad<\/h2><p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ea3c77witr7.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/how-to-tell-if-kombucha-is-badv2vt.jpg-A9NR.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&resize=768%2C512&ssl=1\" alt=\"What to Do If Your Kombucha Is Bad - how to tell if kombucha is bad \" width=\"768\" height=\"512\" \/><\/p><p style=\"font-size: 12px; font-family: Arial;\"><em>Photo Credits: Standardkombucha.Com by Gerald Allen<\/em><\/p><p>If your kombucha is bad, here are the steps you should take to ensure the necessary precautions:<\/p><p>1. Examine appearance: Check the surface for any signs of mold. If you find mold, it is important to <strong>discard<\/strong> the kombucha immediately.<\/p><p>2. Smell the kombucha: Take a whiff and see if it smells foul or rotten. If it does, it is advisable to <strong>dispose of<\/strong> it.<\/p><p>3. Taste test: Take a small sip and assess the flavor. It may have been over-fermented if it tastes off or has a <strong>strong vinegar<\/strong> taste.<\/p><p>4. Check carbonation: Lack of carbonation could indicate <strong>fermentation issues<\/strong> or spoilage.<\/p><p>5. Assess any unusual growths: Look out for abnormal growths or changes in texture, as they could signal spoilage or <strong>contamination<\/strong>.<\/p><p>6. Trust your instincts: It is best to avoid caution if something feels amiss. It is always better to be safe than sorry.<\/p><p>7. When in doubt, discard: If you have any doubts about the <strong>safety or quality<\/strong> of the kombucha, it is recommended to dispose of it and start fresh.<\/p><p>Follow these steps to ensure necessary precautions if you encounter bad kombucha.<\/p><h2>Safety Precautions When Consuming Kombucha<\/h2><p>When consuming kombucha, it is crucial to prioritize safety precautions for a safe and healthy experience.<\/p><ul><li>Always check the expiration date on the <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-to-bottle-kombucha\/\">bottle before consuming kombucha<\/a> to ensure safety. <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/what-happens-if-you-drink-expired-kombucha\/\">Expired kombucha<\/a> may contain harmful bacteria or yeasts that can lead to digestive issues.<\/li><li>Inspecting the bottle for any signs of damage or leakage is important. If the bottle is damaged or the seal is broken, it indicates possible contamination, and the kombucha should not be consumed.<\/li><li>Kombucha should be stored properly in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat and light exposure can adversely affect the quality and safety of the drink.<\/li><li>If you are new to kombucha, it is advisable to start with small quantities and gradually increase your intake. This approach helps your body adjust to the <strong>probiotics<\/strong> and acidity present in kombucha.<\/li><li>Pay close attention to your body&#8217;s response after consuming kombucha. If you experience discomfort such as bloating, gas, or an upset stomach could indicate that kombucha doesn&#8217;t agree with you. In such cases, it is best to discontinue its consumption.<\/li><\/ul><p>An anecdote emphasizing the importance of safety precautions when consuming kombucha serves as a reminder.<\/p><p>A friend of mine suffered severe food poisoning due to not checking the expiration date on a bottle. This highlights how these precautions can effectively prevent health risks and ensure a safe kombucha experience.<\/p><div>\u00a0<\/div><div class=\"facts\" style=\"background: #F6F1F1; margin: 0 auto; display: table; padding: 30px; margin-top: 50px; margin-bottom: 50px; border-radius: 4px; max-width: 720px;\"><h2>Some Facts About How to Tell If Kombucha Is Bad:<\/h2><div class=\"facts_body\" style=\"display: flex; font-size: 16px;\"><ul><li><strong>\u2705 Bottled kombucha can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 months.<\/strong> <em>(Source: brewbuch.com)<\/em><\/li><li><strong>\u2705 <a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-long-is-kombucha-good-for-after-opening\/\">kombucha should be consumed within one week after opening<\/a> to maintain its enthusiasm.<\/strong> <em>(Source: risekombucha.com)<\/em><\/li><li><strong>\u2705 Overly tart or vinegary taste indicates that the kombucha has gone bad.<\/strong> <em>(Source: risekombucha.com)<\/em><\/li><li><strong>\u2705 Signs of mold, which are usually fizzy and colored, indicate that the kombucha has spoiled.<\/strong> <em>(Source: brewbuch.com)<\/em><\/li><li><strong>\u2705 Floaties or strands in the <\/strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/standardkombucha.com\/how-much-kombucha-should-you-drink\/\">kombucha are normal and can be mixed in before drinking.<\/a> (Source: risekombucha.com) <\/em><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7b391f0 uael-share-buttons--view-icon uael-stylex-floating uael-floating-align-right elementor-hidden-mobile elementor-widget elementor-widget-uael-social-share\" data-id=\"7b391f0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" 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class=\"uael-total-share-btn__titlex\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uael-share-fake-count\">34<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> 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