Ginger Bug Mold

[Billiam]

Hey all, I’ve been working with a ginger bug for nearly two months strong. It’s been delivering on some really fantastic ginger beer, but has recently developed some black spots on the bottom. I also noticed with the last batch that it had me racing to the restroom after every glass. I thought it might just have been some suped up probiotic effect, but now I’m concerned that this might have been mold... Are these black specks on the bottom some form of mold? I’ve previously read that mold typically sits on top of the bug. If it is mold, can it be scavenged, or should I start over? Let me know what you think.

 

[RPh_Guy]

Typically mold grows on the surface (because it needs lots of oxygen), so I'm not sure what that is.

I also noticed with the last batch that it had me racing to the restroom after every glass.

Definitely a red flag. I wouldn't be drinking any more of that.

More in-depth info here on safety:
http://www.milkthefunk.com/wiki/Wild_Yeast_Isolation#Safety

Welcome to HBT!

 

[Billiam]

Great resource! Thanks for the link.

Discarding and starting over.

 

[delroy1302]

Why is my ginger bug growing green mold

 

[RPh_Guy]

Why is my ginger bug growing green mold

Mold spores + nutrients + moisture + air

Mold spores you can't really eliminate from a wild culture.
Nutrients will be limited if the yeast and bacteria components of the culture are active and healthy.
Air can be limited by using an air-tight vessel with an airlock.