A lot of people seem to be asking the question “why is metal bad for kombucha?”
You may have heard that metal is bad for kombucha, but what does that mean? Is it really necessary to avoid using metal utensils when you’re brewing your own kombucha?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the myths and truths about metal and kombucha. We’ll also provide some tips on how to avoid any problems with metal and kombucha.
Is Metal Bad For Kombucha? Can Kombucha Touch Metal?
Metal is not bad for kombucha IF you touch your SCOBY or kombucha with metal for a brief period.
Notice the key term here being brief.
If you’re using a standard kitchen tool and need to use some tongs to grab your SCOBY, for example, it isn’t going to harm your kombucha. This is of course assuming you use common sense and don’t use something that is starting to corrode or rust.
However, if you store your kombucha in a corrosive metal material, it can certainly be bad for your Kombucha.
Why Can Metal Be Bad For Kombucha?
The main reason metal is supposedly bad for kombucha is because it can react with the acids in the kombucha and leach into your drink. Kombucha turns into a very acidic drink, so over time, if you’re using metal tools, it’s possible that some of the metal could end up in your kombucha.
Leached metals can be toxic and cause health problems, so it’s understandable why people are concerned about this issue.
Can You Use a Metal Spigot For Kombucha?
Because a spigot is going to be drowned in your kombucha for very long periods, if you use a metal spigot, make sure it is grade 304 or higher. That’s because it is non-reactive and won’t rust.
You’ll also want to avoid using a brass spigot as it can leach zinc into your kombucha.
Can You Use Aluminum When Brewing Kombucha?
Pots, pans, and teaspoons made of aluminum are among the most popular kitchen items today. Because aluminum is not particularly resistant to acids, it’s best to avoid using it around kombucha.
You can pick up the SCOBY with an aluminum spoon. You just want to avoid prolonged exposure.
This is due to the acidity, which causes the aluminum to deteriorate over time. You don’t want to forget your spoon in your brew jar or rely on your aluminum pot as a brewing vessel since the acidity will cause it to break down.
Conclusion
So, while metal isn’t necessarily bad for kombucha, there are some things you should keep in mind when brewing your own batch at home. By following these tips, you can avoid any problems with metal and kombucha.
