Health Benefits, Where to Buy, How to Grow It at Home, and the surprising uses of SCOBY you did not know about
Did you know that the kombucha 'tea mushroom' isn’t a mushroom at all? From its rich history in Russian households to its surprising uses in fashion and cosmetics, this guide will uncover the full potential of kombucha's SCOBY mat.
What is a Tea Mushroom? Is it the same thing as Kombucha?
The term "tea mushroom" is a folk name for the kombucha drink, particularly common in Russia, where the beverage has been consumed for centuries. In Russian, it’s called "чайный гриб" (chaynyy grib), referring to the mushroom-like cellulose layer formed on the surface during fermentation. Despite being called a tea "mushroom," the kombucha culture is not a fungus but rather a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), which ferments the sweetened tea. The mushroom-like appearance of the SCOBY mat floating on top of the fermenting tea is where the name most likely originated.
We have often heard people visiting our kombucha tasting stands asking how they can start growing this "tea mushroom" in their own garden, orchard, or tree grove. This myth, believing kombucha is a mushroom that grows on the earth, is quite popular—but couldn’t be further from reality. While the folk names can be misleading, they are undeniably catchy!
Throughout this article, we will use the terms "tea mushroom" and "SCOBY mat" interchangeably, as both refer to the cellulose-based part of kombucha that forms on the surface during kombucha’s fermentation process.
What is a Tea Mushroom drink? What is Kombucha?
Kombucha is made up of two primary components: the fermented tea liquid and the SCOBY mat, also known as the tea mushroom.
You can learn more about kombucha (or tea mushroom drink) in our full guide to kombucha.
As you explore the world of kombucha, it's important to understand the key distinction between the kombucha liquid and the SCOBY mat, both of which play crucial roles in the fermentation process. Let’s dive into the differences that define these two components.
What is the Difference Between the Kombucha Liquid and the SCOBY (Tea Mushroom) Mat?
Kombucha consists of two primary elements:
Kombucha Liquid: Rich in organic acids, enzymes, and probiotics. This is the liquid part that people drink for digestive and immune support.
SCOBY (Tea Mushroom) Mat: This mat is rich in cellulose, produced by aerobic bacteria like Acetobacter xylinum, which forms a solid structure. It grows on the surface, where it has contact with air, essential for fermentation.
Key Differences:
Cellulose Content: The liquid lacks the cellulose present in the SCOBY mat.
Oxygen Requirement: The SCOBY thrives in oxygen-rich environments, which is why it grows on the surface of the tea.
Tip: If you move the jar or stir the liquid, the SCOBY mat may sink. Don’t worry—a new one will often begin forming at the surface.
If you're aiming for an aesthetically appealing and smooth SCOBY, it's important to avoid moving or disturbing the jar once the SCOBY has formed on the surface. Movement will cause the SCOBY mat to sink, losing contact with the air, which is essential for its growth. However, if the SCOBY mat does sink, don’t worry—a new one will start forming on the surface as the fermentation continues. To ensure healthy growth and appearance, maintain a stable environment for your jar to allow the SCOBY to grow undisturbed.
You can grow a SCOBY from a bottle of raw, unpasteurized kombucha (see our step-by-step guide).
Also, keep in mind that not all store-bought kombuchas will grow a SCOBY. Many industrially produced kombuchas are pasteurized to extend shelf life, which kills the live cultures needed for fermentation. At Living Kombucha Israel, we produce raw, unpasteurized kombucha, bottled at the peak of fermentation to retain live cultures and probiotics.
Some commercial kombucha products are closer to kombucha sodas, made by diluting small amounts of over-fermented kombucha with sweetened soda water. These products won’t provide the same probiotic benefits and are unable to grow a healthy or any SCOBY at all.
Is Tea Mushroom a Mushroom?: SCOBY Mat Compared to Other Mushrooms
Although commonly referred to as a "mushroom," the kombucha SCOBY is not related to fungi. The SCOBY is a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, forming a biofilm of cellulose that mimics the appearance of a mushroom cap. True mushrooms are part of the fungal kingdom, characterized by mycelium growth and spore reproduction, whereas the kombucha "mushroom" has no such features.
However, like fungi, the kombucha culture plays a vital role in breaking down organic matter (in this case, sugars) through fermentation.
Now that we understand how the tea mushroom differs from true fungi, let's explore how different environmental factors create unique SCOBYs, each with its microbial profile.
Are All SCOBYs the Same?
No, not all SCOBYs are the same. SCOBYs are live cultures that vary depending on their environment. Factors like temperature, tea type, sugar, and airborne microbes influence the composition of bacteria and yeast in each SCOBY. Some conditions promote the growth of specific strains while others decline, leading to unique microbial communities in different SCOBYs.
To better understand your SCOBY’s unique signature, you can send it to a scientific lab for analysis. These labs can provide a detailed report of the bacteria and yeast strains present through DNA sequencing or microbial tests. This insight helps you adjust your fermentation process for specific results, such as flavor or fermentation speed.
While each SCOBY is unique, it’s equally crucial to monitor the health of your tea mushroom. Identifying a healthy SCOBY ensures successful fermentation and the best kombucha results
How to Tell If Your Tea Mushroom (SCOBY mat) is Healthy
A healthy SCOBY can be identified by several key characteristics:
Texture: The SCOBY should be firm and gelatinous. It may have air bubbles trapped underneath, which is completely normal. The surface can be either smooth or bumpy, depending on the fermentation environment. If you prefer a smoother SCOBY, it’s important not to move or stir the jar during the fermentation process, as this can disrupt the formation of the mat.
Color: A healthy SCOBY will typically be light brown or white. Color variations may occur due to the type of tea used or the fermentation duration, but dark spots or mold are signs of contamination.
Smell: The SCOBY should have a tangy, vinegar-like smell, which indicates proper fermentation. If it smells foul or rotten, this is a sign that the fermentation process has gone wrong, and the SCOBY may be contaminated.
Common indicators of an unhealthy SCOBY include:
Black spots, which can be mold, and
A foul odor, which indicates spoilage.
If the SCOBY shows any signs of contamination, it's best to discard it and start fresh with a new one. If you’re unsure, you can always take a photo or video of your tea mushroom (SCOBY) and send it to us for a kombucha expert opinion.
Can You Eat the SCOBY mat?
Yes! The SCOBY mat is edible and can be added to smoothies, salads, or even dehydrated for use as a snack. It is rich in probiotics and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. It is possible to even cut the scoby mat and sautee it like a protein.
However, note that the probiotics will die when cooked or dried (dehydrated).
Making probiotic gummy bears using kombucha SCOBY is a fun and creative way to get the benefits of kombucha in a different form! These gummy bears are a delicious and kid-friendly snack packed with probiotics, which can aid digestion and support gut health. Here’s a brief overview of how the process works:
Puree SCOBY: First, you blend or puree your SCOBY mat into a smooth consistency (for the liquid part add kombucha or water). The SCOBY mat + kombucha will provide the probiotic element.
Add Sweetener and Flavoring: You can mix in natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup and flavorings such as fruit juice or extracts to enhance the taste.
Gelatin or Agar Agar: Use gelatin (or agar agar for a vegan version) to give the gummy bears their firm, chewy texture. Mix the gelatin with the SCOBY puree and juice mixture.
Pour into Molds: Once the mixture is well-combined, pour it into silicone molds in the shape of gummy bears (or any other fun shapes you like).
Chill: Let the molds set in the fridge until the gummies solidify, which usually takes a few hours.
These homemade gummies are not only fun to eat but also a fantastic way to enjoy probiotics creatively!
Fabric, Biomaterials & Sustainable Leather Making from Tea Mushroom (SCOBY Mat)
Beyond its health and fermentation uses, the SCOBY mat has gained attention in the fashion and design industries for its unique structure and eco-friendly properties.
In recent years, kombucha's SCOBY mat has gained significant attention in the field of sustainable design, particularly for its use in creating biomaterials like fabric and vegan leather. The cellulose produced by the bacteria in the SCOBY forms a strong, flexible material that can be dried and processed to mimic leather or other textiles.
Biomaterials and Sustainable Fashion
The SCOBY's cellulose structure is an ideal candidate for eco-friendly materials due to its biodegradability and low environmental impact. One of the earliest experiments in this field was conducted by fashion designer Suzanne Lee in the early 2000s through her project Biocouture, where she demonstrated how kombucha SCOBY could be used to create sustainable leather alternatives. The fermentation process produces large sheets of cellulose, which can be dried, treated, and shaped into sustainable vegan leather products.
This SCOBY-derived material is being adopted in the fashion industry as a vegan alternative to animal leather. As it is fully biodegradable, SCOBY leather provides an eco-friendly option that reduces the environmental impact of traditional leather production. You can watch Suzanne Lee’s TED Talk here, where she explains the process of creating biomaterials from kombucha SCOBY.
Cosmetic Uses of SCOBY: Rejuvenating & hydrating Face Mask Recipe
SCOBY can also be used in cosmetics, particularly in skincare due to its hydrating and anti-aging properties. Several skincare brands have started incorporating kombucha and SCOBY into their products, leveraging their antioxidant, probiotic, and anti-aging properties.
Here's a simple beauty rejuvenating face mask recipe:
Grow a SCOBY: Use raw kombucha (such as our Classic Flavor, see [Where to Buy]) and let it grow in a large bowl for 1-4 weeks, covered with a cloth to prevent contamination.
Prepare the Scoby Face Mask: Once the SCOBY has grown, gently rinse it and place it directly on your face for 15-20 minutes. The cellulose in the SCOBY can help improve skin elasticity and provide anti-aging benefits(
Aftercare: Rinse your face with cool water and apply a moisturizer to lock in the benefits.
Can You Grow Your Own Tea Mushroom or Kombucha Scoby mat at Home?
Yes, it’s easy to grow your own SCOBY at home. Simply use raw kombucha as a starter, mix it with sweetened tea in a large jar, and cover it with a breathable cloth. Let it sit for 1- 4 weeks until a new SCOBY forms. Room temperature and the health of the starter kombucha will determine how fast it will grow.
See the full step-by-step guide on how to grow your own scoby mat or tea mushroom here: Youtube video
Where Can You Buy a Tea Mushroom for Home Cultivation?
You can purchase kombucha SCOBYs online from retailers like Amazon or iHerb, however, it is smart to find a local retailer, since the kombucha culture will be more adapted to the climate, water, and ingredients of your region. You can also grow your own kombucha scoby by using a commercially available bottle of raw kombucha (such as a bottle of Classic flavor from Living Kombucha brand: see where to buy our kombucha here). Make sure to use only raw kombucha to ensure a viable SCOBY!
How to Store a Tea Mushroom (SCOBY mat) After Purchase
Whether you're using a SCOBY mat for kombucha brewing or experimenting with creative uses like probiotic gummy bears, proper storage is essential for keeping the culture alive and healthy.
Proper storage of a SCOBY mat is crucial to maintaining its viability and ensuring it's ready for future kombucha brewing. Here are key steps for storing a tea mushroom after purchase or after growing your own SCOBY:
Keep it in Kombucha Starter Liquid: Always store your SCOBY in some kombucha starter liquid (unflavored kombucha) to keep it hydrated and to preserve the acidic environment it needs to stay healthy. This liquid should come from the same batch of kombucha it was fermented in. The acidic nature of the kombucha prevents mold and harmful bacteria from developing on the SCOBY.
Use a Glass Container: Place the SCOBY and the starter liquid in a clean, sterile glass jar. Glass is the best option as it doesn’t react with the acids in the kombucha, unlike metal, plastic, or ceramic containers, which can leach harmful chemicals into the liquid. Ensure the jar is big enough to allow the SCOBY to stay fully submerged.
Cover with a dry & breathable Cloth: Like during the fermentation process, cover the jar with a breathable cloth (like a cheesecloth or a coffee filter) secured with a rubber band. This allows oxygen to reach the SCOBY while keeping out dust, debris, and insects like fruit flies.
Store at Room Temperature: The ideal temperature for storing a SCOBY is room temperature, typically between 21°C and 27°C (70°F - 80°F). Maintaining this temperature ensures the cultures remain active without going dormant, which can happen at lower temperatures.
Long-Term Storage: If you don’t plan to brew kombucha for a while, you can store your SCOBY in a SCOBY Hotel—a jar with multiple SCOBYs submerged in starter liquid (unflavored kombucha). Keep the jar at room temperature for several weeks or even months, checking occasionally to ensure the liquid fully covers the SCOBY mats. This prevents the SCOBY from drying out and maintains the acidic environment needed to keep it healthy.
Avoid Freezing: Never freeze a SCOBY or kombucha liquid. Freezing can severely damage the live cultures, potentially killing the bacteria and yeast essential for proper fermentation. Frost temperatures can irreparably harm the SCOBY's viability, making it unsuitable for future kombucha brewing.
Maintaining a SCOBY in Storage: If stored for long periods, feed the SCOBY by adding fresh sweet tea or kombucha liquid to the jar every few weeks. This ensures the cultures remain active. Also, check for any signs of mold (black spots), and ensure the liquid maintains a tangy, vinegar-like smell.
Long-Term Storage: By following these steps, you can ensure your SCOBY stays healthy and ready for future batches of kombucha. Proper care during storage helps prevent contamination and ensures successful fermentation when you’re ready to brew again.
However, it's important to note that the storage guidelines for the ready-to-drink kombucha liquid are different. Once your kombucha is fully fermented and ready to drink, it should be bottled and stored in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures between 3°C and 6°C. Storing kombucha at this cooler temperature slows down or even halts the fermentation process, preventing the kombucha from becoming overly acidic or carbonated while preserving its live cultures. This method helps extend the shelf life of the kombucha and maintains its flavor and nutritional benefits.
You can learn much more about what is kombucha and what are the health benefits of kombucha in this complete guide to kombucha.
Conclusion and Recommendation for Further Reading
The kombucha tea mushroom (SCOBY mat) offers a wide range of benefits beyond its well-known contribution to gut health, including its applications in sustainable materials, skincare, and even cosmetics. Whether you're fascinated by the potential of SCOBY to create vegan leather and biomaterials, or you’re drawn to its uses in DIY self-care and beauty products, there’s plenty to explore with this versatile material.
Are you ready to unleash your creativity and explore the possibilities? Whether you decide to brew your kombucha at home for its health benefits, experiment with SCOBY in fashion and crafts, or create natural skincare products, the kombucha world has a lot to offer.
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