You've invested in quality craft kombucha—now let's make sure you store it correctly to preserve the probiotics, fizz, and flavor. Here's everything you need to know.
The Golden Rule: Refrigerate!
Raw, unpasteurized kombucha like Scoby Doo must be refrigerated at all times. This isn't optional—it's essential.
- Slows ongoing fermentation
- Prevents excessive alcohol development
- Maintains carbonation levels
- Preserves probiotic viability
- Keeps the taste balanced
Optimal Storage Temperature
Ideal range: 1-4°C (34-39°F)
This is standard refrigerator temperature. Avoid:
- Freezing: Can damage cultures and affect taste
- Room temperature: Fermentation continues, making it more sour and potentially explosive
- Warm areas: Accelerates fermentation dramatically
Shelf Life Guide
- Unopened, refrigerated: 2-3 months from production date
- Opened, refrigerated: 5-7 days (best quality)
- Room temperature: Not recommended (hours, not days)
What Happens If You Don't Refrigerate?
Leaving kombucha at room temperature causes:
- Continued fermentation: The SCOBY cultures keep working
- Increased sourness: More sugar converts to acid
- Higher alcohol: Can exceed 0.5% threshold
- Excess carbonation: Pressure builds up—possible bottle explosion!
- Off flavors: The delicate balance is lost
Storage Tips for Best Results
Before Opening
- Store upright to minimize oxygen contact with the cap
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods (kombucha can absorb odors)
- Place in the main fridge compartment, not the door (more stable temperature)
After Opening
- Reseal tightly immediately after pouring
- Return to fridge right away
- Consume within 5-7 days for best fizz and flavor
- The taste will gradually become more vinegary over time
Can Kombucha Go Bad?
Technically, kombucha is already "fermented" so it doesn't spoil like milk. However, it can become:
- Too sour: Unpleasantly vinegary
- Flat: Lost its fizz
- Moldy: Visible fuzzy growth (rare with commercial products, discard if seen)
Signs Your Kombucha is Still Good
- ✅ Pleasant, tangy smell
- ✅ Carbonation when opened
- ✅ No visible mold
- ✅ Tastes balanced (not overly sour)
- ✅ SCOBY strands at bottom are normal!
The Sediment Question
Seeing stringy bits or sediment at the bottom? That's normal! These are live cultures and yeast strands—signs of authentic, unpasteurized kombucha. Gently swirl before drinking to distribute.
Transporting Kombucha
When taking kombucha on the go:
- Use an insulated bag with ice packs
- Avoid leaving in hot cars
- Consume soon after removing from cold storage
- Don't shake the bottle (carbonation!)
FAQ
Can I freeze kombucha?
Not recommended. Freezing can kill probiotics and damage the flavor. If you must, it's safe to drink after thawing, but quality will be reduced.
Why is my kombucha more sour than before?
It likely got warm at some point, causing additional fermentation. It's still safe to drink but may taste more vinegary.
Can I store kombucha in a different container?
It's best to keep it in the original glass bottle. If you must transfer, use glass (not plastic or metal) and ensure it's airtight.
The Bottom Line
Proper storage is simple: keep it cold, keep it sealed, drink it fresh. By refrigerating your Scoby Doo kombucha consistently, you'll enjoy maximum probiotics, perfect fizz, and the best flavor in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does kombucha need to be refrigerated?
Yes, always! Kombucha contains live cultures that continue fermenting at room temperature. Refrigeration (2-8°C) keeps the taste consistent and prevents over-fermentation.
How long does kombucha last after opening?
Once opened, kombucha stays fresh for 3-7 days when refrigerated. For best taste and fizz, consume within 3-5 days. Always reseal tightly.
Can kombucha go bad?
Yes. Signs of spoiled kombucha include: mold growth, extremely vinegary smell, off taste, or unusual colors. When stored properly, it lasts 2-3 months past bottling date.
What happens if kombucha gets warm?
It will continue fermenting and become more sour and carbonated. Refrigerate immediately when possible. Extended warmth can significantly alter taste.
Fresh Kombucha Delivered Cold!
We ship Scoby Doo in insulated packaging to maintain the cold chain. Order now and taste the fresh difference!
Order Now