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How Long Does Kombucha (homemade) Last? — Shelf Life & Storage Guide

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Refrigerator: 1-3 months

Freezer: Not recommended

Overview

Kombucha (homemade) lasts 1-3 months in the fridge. Complete shelf life, storage tips, and spoilage signs.

Key Details

  • Refrigerator: 1-3 months
  • Freezer: Not recommended
  • Pantry/Counter: Continuous brew at room temp
  • Category: Condiments

Why This Matters

  • Spoilage sign: Black mold on SCOBY (green, black, or fuzzy is bad)
  • Spoilage sign: Foul or rotten smell (vinegar smell is normal)
  • Spoilage sign: Fruit flies or insects in brew
  • Spoilage sign: SCOBY turns black

How To

  1. 1A healthy SCOBY is white, tan, or light brown — never black or moldy
  2. 2Vinegary smell is normal; rotten smell means contamination — discard all
  3. 3Keep covered with cloth secured by rubber band to prevent fruit flies
  4. 4Continuous brew method keeps kombucha at consistent strength
  5. 5Starter liquid should be at least 10% of total volume for proper pH

Tags

shelf-lifecondimentskombucha-homemadestoragefood-safety

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Frequently Asked Questions

Kombucha (homemade) lasts 1-3 months in the fridge.