Kombucha and Temperature

[Nerium]

I purchased a dehydrated kombucha scoby from Cultures For Health. It took over 2 weeks to get to me, because I'm in Canada and I think my package got held up at the border. Also, I am in a fairly cold climate and my house is generally around 68 degrees during the day, 62 degrees during the night.

In order to rehydrate the scoby, I followed the provided instructions very carefully, and placed the jar in the cupboard above my fridge, because I thought it would be warmer.

It's been almost 3 weeks and I haven't noticed any sign of the whitish, gelatinous film that is supposed to develop. Instead, there are a few beige patches, with filaments dangling underneath. No sign of a new scoby forming, however.

Eventhough I know you're not supposed to move it, I found a warmer spot in my entertainment unit, beside my PVR where it is a toasty 75 degrees. So I moved it. I am hoping this will help.

I suppose what I am wondering is if there is still hope for my scoby. Do I just need to be patient? Is there a possibility that pathenogenic bacteria/yeast has been developing? Would it be helpful to brew up another batch of tea with cider vinegar (as is suggested for rehydrating a scoby). Any helpful advice would be so much appreciated!

[Fubar]

It sounds to me like either it's too cold, or your SCOBY isn't working. You should consider growing your own SCOBY from a commercial bottle of kombucha (original flavor). It only takes 7-10 days. Ideal temps are around 80 degrees.

[Fubar]

http://www.foodrenegade.com/how-to-grow ... cha-scoby/

[Nerium]

Wow, great information--thank you, Fubar! I am going to give it one more week in the new warm spot, and if it doesn't work, I will try to grow my own. My favourite health food store sells bottled organic, bottled kombucha.

Have you personally tried growing one using this method?

[Fubar]

Unless a friend gives me a free SCOBY, this is the only method I use. I see no point in buying a mother if I can grow one myself. ;)