Very interesting topic-Decaffeinated Kombucha.
Not everyone reacts well or enjoys caffeine but many do enjoy the health benefits of kombucha. Everything I can find on the internet says that you need to use caffeinated tea to brew kombucha; however, I recently started brewing kombucha when I received a scoby from my Mother. I’m on my third batch now and have only been using rooibos. She has been brewing hers in green tea rooibos for over a year now. Her scoby appears to be really healthy and the kombucha tastes amazing. I’m not sure that the caffeine is needed since the scoby has been growing and appears to be extremely healthy. A lot of what I’ve been reading on the Internet says that caffeine is needed but clearly that is not the case. The kombucha we’re making taste better than any I’ve ever had. I’ll have to keep an eye on mine and make sure that it’s health doesn’t become jeopardized.
I have also been doing a second fermentation by putting in some stuff like blueberries (and other various fruits), ginger, and some loose leaf teas for different flavours . I put it in sealed bottles and let it sit out of the fridge in a dark place while I drink it over the 10 day brew cycle my main kombucha goes through. I noticed that the bottles with fruit in them become at least twice as fizzy and add some delicious flavours. If you do the second fermentation you do get a slightly higher alcohol content but it is still quite minimal.
If the mother scoby keeps growing, appears healthy, and is creating a fizzy product I’m not sure I see the need for using a caffeinated tea, although all the articles I can find on the internet state otherwise. some food (or drink) for thought! Any input is appreciated. I'll keep you updated on any new discoveries.
New to kombucha and want to learn how to brew your own? Check out this link
https://wellnessmama.com/2673/kombucha-recipe/
Cheers!