Sofia Martinez
Water kefir is a refreshing, probiotic-rich beverage created through a fermentation process. The choice of container for fermenting and storing water kefir is a topic of debate among enthusiasts. While some advocate for the use of glass containers, others argue that plastic bottles can also be used. The main concerns with plastic bottles centre around the potential for undesirable chemicals, such as BPA, to leach into the beverage, and the risk of bacterial contamination from scratches on the plastic surface. However, proponents of plastic bottles point out the advantages of using plastic during the second fermentation, when CO2 is produced and pressure builds up inside the bottle, which can lead to glass bottle explosions if not burped regularly. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific circumstances of each individual's brewing process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bottles | Can be used in a pinch for short-term storage |
| Should be BPA-free | |
| Should be scratch-free | |
| Should not be used for long-term storage | |
| Can leach undesirable chemicals into the kefir | |
| Can absorb odours and flavours | |
| Can be damaged by the pressure of fermentation | |
| Can be prone to scratches, which can harbour bacteria | |
| Glass bottles | Ideal for storing water kefir |
| Pressure-resistant | |
| Wide-mouth containers are preferable | |
| Relatively easy and inexpensive to obtain |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic bottles are convenient and easily available
However, there are some disadvantages to using plastic bottles for water kefir. Firstly, plastic bottles may not be as durable, especially under the pressure created by the fermentation process, which can result in leaks or container bursts. Scratches on plastic can also harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of contamination.
Additionally, some plastics may contain undesirable chemicals, such as BPA, that can leach into the beverage and potentially harm the kefir grains. Plastic can also absorb odours and flavours, altering the taste of the kefir over time. Therefore, it is recommended to use food-grade plastic containers that are BPA-free and specifically designed for beverage storage if opting for plastic bottles.
While plastic bottles offer convenience and ease of availability, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and take necessary precautions to ensure the integrity and safety of the water kefir. Glass bottles, such as pressure-resistant jars or bottles with swing-top lids, are often recommended as a safer alternative for storing water kefir.
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Plastic may release undesirable chemicals during fermentation
Plastic is not recommended for storing water kefir due to the risk of undesirable chemicals leaching into the beverage. While it is possible to ferment water kefir in a plastic bottle, some plastics may release chemicals and contaminants during fermentation, compromising the quality of the kefir and potentially harming the kefir grains.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most commonly mentioned undesirable chemicals that can be released from plastic during fermentation. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used in the production of certain plastics and resins since the 1960s. Research has shown that BPA can leach into food or beverages from containers made with BPA. While some plastic manufacturers have switched to using bisphenol B (BPB) instead, this chemical has many of the same negative health effects as BPA. Therefore, it is recommended to use BPA-free and BPB-free plastic containers if you choose to ferment or store water kefir in plastic.
In addition to the risk of chemical leaching, plastic containers may also harbour bacteria, especially if they have scratches or other damage. This can increase the risk of contamination and compromise the integrity of the kefir. Plastic is also generally less durable under the pressure created by the fermentation process, which can result in leaks or container bursts.
While there are some advantages to using plastic bottles, such as the ability to withstand pressure during the second fermentation and indicate when the bottle needs to be "burped", the potential risks associated with chemical leaching and bacterial contamination make plastic a less ideal choice for fermenting or storing water kefir.
To summarise, while it is possible to ferment or store water kefir in plastic containers, it is not recommended due to the risk of undesirable chemicals, such as BPA and BPB, being released into the beverage. Glass or other food-grade materials, such as stainless steel, are generally considered safer and more suitable options for preserving the integrity and quality of water kefir.
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Glass bottles can explode due to CO2 buildup
Glass bottles are the recommended container for water kefir due to the potential for CO2 buildup during fermentation. While plastic bottles are convenient and easily available, they are less durable under pressure and can result in leaks or container bursts. Plastic bottles can also leach undesirable chemicals, such as BPA, into the beverage, compromising the quality of the kefir and potentially harming the kefir grains. Additionally, plastic can absorb odours and flavours, altering the taste of the kefir over time.
To prevent glass bottle explosions due to CO2 buildup, it is important to use high-quality, pressure-resistant glass bottles with thick glass. The bottles should be checked for cracks, chips, or splits before each use and should never be reused if damaged. It is also recommended to use bottles with a wide mouth for easy access and cleaning.
During fermentation, it is essential to ""burp" the bottles regularly by opening them to release pressure. This can be done once a day under normal conditions, but if temperatures are high, it may be necessary to burp the bottles more frequently or store them with a breathable covering, such as cloth or kitchen paper secured with a rubber band. Once refrigerated, chilled bottles should be burped weekly.
To safely manage a bottle that has not been burped for a while, it is recommended to take it outside and cover it with a dishtowel or hand towel. The towel can be used to help pry open the bottle, absorbing any excess soda. It is important to point the top of the bottle away from faces or breakable items to avoid potential injury from exploding glass.
Overall, while glass bottles can explode due to CO2 buildup, following these recommended practices for storing and handling water kefir can help mitigate the risk and ensure a safe and enjoyable fermentation process.
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Plastic is less durable under pressure and can leak or burst
Plastic is a less durable option for storing water kefir under pressure, and can lead to leaks or container bursts. This is because the plastic can degrade and release chemicals, or BPA, into the water kefir. The pressure created by the fermentation process can cause leaks or container bursts. Scratches on plastic can also harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of contamination.
The fermentation process of water kefir involves the production of CO2, which increases the pressure inside the bottle. Glass bottles are pressure-resistant and are ideal for storing water kefir. They are also inexpensive and easy to obtain. Plastic bottles, on the other hand, are not as durable and can be prone to leaks or bursting under pressure.
While some people argue that plastic bottles are more resistant to pressure than glass bottles, and that they are less likely to explode, it is important to consider the potential health risks associated with plastic. Plastic bottles that are not designed to hold acidic liquids might react with the acid in the water kefir and release chemicals or BPA into the beverage. This can compromise the quality of the kefir and potentially harm the kefir grains.
To minimise the risk of leaks or bursts, it is recommended to use pressure-resistant glass bottles with swing-top lids or Grolsch-type bottles, jars, or carafes for storing water kefir. These containers are designed to withstand the pressure created by the fermentation process and will help maintain the integrity of the homemade brew.
In summary, plastic is less durable under pressure and can lead to leaks or container bursts when used for storing water kefir. Scratches on plastic, the release of chemicals or BPA, and the potential for contamination make plastic a less ideal choice compared to pressure-resistant glass containers.
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Glass is inexpensive and widely available
Glass is a widely available and inexpensive material, used for a variety of purposes. It is an inorganic solid material that is usually transparent or translucent, hard, and brittle. Commercial glass is typically made from sand, limestone, and sodium carbonate, which are heated and then rapidly cooled to prevent crystal formation. Glass is used for a wide range of applications, including windows, tableware, lenses, mirrors, prisms, and touchscreens.
In the context of water kefir storage, glass is a recommended option due to its ability to withstand pressure and preserve the integrity of the beverage. Pressure-resistant glass bottles with wide mouths are ideal for storing water kefir, as they facilitate easy access and cleaning. Glass is preferable to plastic because it does not release harmful chemicals like BPA or absorb odours and flavours, which can alter the taste of the kefir over time.
While certain types of glass, such as Murano glass, can be expensive due to specialised manufacturing processes and the use of precious metals, the glass typically used for storing water kefir is not costly. The wide availability and affordability of glass make it a practical choice for those looking to store their homemade water kefir safely and effectively.
It is worth noting that glass can still be susceptible to breakage or explosion if the pressure is not properly managed during the fermentation process. However, when compared to plastic, glass is generally considered a safer and more suitable option for water kefir storage.
Overall, glass is a readily accessible and affordable material that is well-suited for storing water kefir. Its durability, chemical inertness, and ability to preserve the quality of the beverage make it a preferred choice over plastic containers.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not recommended to store water kefir in plastic containers. Plastic can absorb odours and flavours, altering the taste of the kefir over time. Scratches on plastic can also harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of contamination.
Pressure-resistant glass bottles, such as those with swing-top lids, are ideal for storing water kefir. Ceramic, metal, and porcelain containers are also viable alternatives.
Plastic containers are convenient and easily available. During the second fermentation of water kefir, CO2 is produced, which increases the pressure inside the container. Glass bottles may explode if not "burped" frequently, while plastic bottles can indicate the need to release pressure by squeezing and observing their bulging sides.
If using plastic containers for water kefir, it is recommended to use food-grade plastic containers that are BPA-free, scratch-free, and specifically designed for beverage storage. It is important to ensure that the plastic can withstand acidic liquids without degrading and releasing chemicals.
