When it comes to choosing bottles for storing kombucha, the two main options are dark (typically amber) or clear bottles. Both have their advantages and it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and brewing environment.
Dark bottles, such as amber ones, are popular among many kombucha brewers. One of the main benefits of using dark bottles is that they block out UV light. UV light can be harmful to the microbes in kombucha, particularly during the second fermentation process. By using dark bottles, you can protect your brew from the potentially damaging effects of UV light.
I personally have used amber bottles for my kombucha brewing and have found them to be effective in preserving the quality of the brew. When I first started brewing, I made the mistake of using clear bottles and noticed that my kombucha would sometimes develop an off taste or become over-fermented. Switching to amber bottles helped to eliminate these issues, as the UV protection provided a more stable environment for the fermentation process.
On the other hand, clear bottles have their own advantages as well. One of the main reasons some brewers prefer clear bottles is that they allow for better monitoring of the second fermentation process. With clear bottles, you can easily see the carbonation levels and judge when your kombucha is ready to be consumed. This can be particularly helpful if you enjoy experimenting with different flavors or prefer a specific level of carbonation.
I have also used clear bottles during my brewing journey and found them useful for observing the progression of carbonation. It was interesting to see the bubbles forming and the liquid becoming more effervescent over time. However, I did notice that I needed to be extra cautious about storing the clear bottles in a darker area to minimize exposure to UV light.
Both dark and clear bottles have their merits when it comes to storing kombucha. If you prioritize UV protection and want to ensure the optimal growth and health of your kombucha microbes, then dark bottles, such as amber ones, are a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy closely monitoring the fermentation process and want to easily observe the carbonation levels, clear bottles can be a suitable option.
Ultimately, the decision between dark and clear bottles for kombucha comes down to your personal preferences and brewing environment. It may be helpful to experiment with both types of bottles to see which works best for you and produces the results you desire.