Product number: 3830063021028 View all Kefirko > View more: DIY Foods > Kefirco fermentation and starter cultures with probiotic health benefits Fermented vegetables are full of beneficial microorganisms and nutrients and are more easily absorbed than fresh ones. Regular consumption of fermented foods can have positive effects on gut health, cholesterol control, immune system strengthening, appetite regulation, weight loss, and much more. A fermentation jar is a type of glass jar used to ferment food. It is designed with an airtight lid and an airlock to allow gases to escape during the fermentation process, while simultaneously keeping outside air out. Fermentation jars are available in various sizes and shapes, depending on the specific application and quantity of food you wish to ferment. They can be used to ferment different types of food, including sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, pickles, and other vegetables. The jar itself is usually made of thick, high-quality glass that can withstand high temperatures and chemical reactions. The lids often feature a silicone seal to ensure an airtight closure, and the airlock provides proper ventilation during the fermentation process. Fermentation jars are a convenient tool for home fermentation because they make the fermentation process simpler and safer. They are easy to clean and can be used repeatedly for different fermentation projects. HOW TO FERMENT FRUITS AND VEGETABLES? Fermenting vegetables is a traditional method of preserving fresh ingredients when they are available. All you need to do is use good quality non-metallic equipment and salt and/or brine. There are some basic principles to follow in this process: ensuring no air gets in and maintaining a high level of hygiene. There are many different recipes for fermenting vegetables. The Veggie Fermenter includes over 25 delicious recipes for beginners or experienced fermenters. WHICH VEGETABLES CAN BE FERMENTED? You can ferment almost all vegetables and even some fruits – apples, berries. Cabbage is one of the most popular vegetables to ferment, and radish is next. You can ferment garlic, cucumbers, carrots, celery, green beans, and even herbs. There are some limitations with leafy greens due to their distinct flavor which becomes even stronger through fermentation. With a little experience, you can ferment almost anything. Package Includes: glass weight; pressure spring; one-way valve; glass jar; fermentation clock; filter; pump; recipe book. Product specifications Veggie Fermenter 900 ml. - 900ml Item description Veggie Fermenter 900 ml. Product number 3830063021028 Version 900ml Product type Fermentation kits Country of origin Bulgaria Specifications: 900 ml (30 oz) weight: 723 g Height: 15.7 Diameter: 10.6 ARE VEGETABLES FERMENTED WHOLE OR IN PIECES? Depending on the recipe you are making. The purpose of chopping or grating vegetables is to allow them to release water and create enough brine to keep them submerged. But some vegetables cannot be grated and can only be chopped into coarse pieces or left whole. In that case, you can use a salty brine. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO ADD SALT AND HOW MUCH? Salt is important to create an environment where Lactobacillus bacteria thrive, while yeast and mold cannot form, thus protecting your ferment. The percentage of salt is calculated for the total weight of your ingredients and water. It is recommended to use approximately 2% brine. For 1 kg of ingredients, this means about 20 g of salt. Keep in mind that fermentation proceeds faster at higher temperatures. So in warmer seasons, you can add more salt to slow down the fermentation. IS THE STRONG ODOR OF FERMENTATION NORMAL? Many bacteria and yeasts in your ferment are doing their job and producing gas. If this is new to you, it may come as a shock, but it does not mean the fermentation has gone bad. The Veggie Fermenter has an activated carbon filter that reduces the odor of gases from the jar. THERE IS MOLD ON MY FERMENT - WHAT NOW? Mold is the most common problem when fermenting vegetables. This usually happens because the ferment has been in contact with air. Some people only remove the layer with mold, but to be safe, it is best to discard the entire jar in this case. You can prevent mold growth by always keeping the ferment submerged. IS THE USE OF STARTER CULTURES NECESSARY? Vegetables and fruits contain all the necessary microorganisms for fermentation. If you are unsure or want it to proceed faster and more consistently, you can use some help in the form of starter cultures. This is usually a powdered culture that you mix into the brine. You can get help with whey which is also full of microorganisms; some people like to use sauerkraut juice from the previous batch for new fermentation. Some even use extra kefir grains and add them in a mix. All these options are available, but don't be afraid of the wild fermentation that occurs naturally, with great ingredients and a little salt. HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR FERMENT IS SAFE TO EAT? It is important to make sure that the fermented food is safe to eat before consuming it. Here are some tips: Check for signs of spoilage: If you notice strange odors or tastes, mold, or signs of spoilage such as discoloration or sliminess, discard the ferment immediately. Look for bubbles: During fermentation, carbon dioxide is produced, creating bubbles in the ferment. If you do not see bubbles, this may indicate that the fermentation process has not occurred or is incomplete. Check the pH: Fermented foods should have a pH of 4.6 or lower to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. You can use a pH meter or pH test strips to check the acidity of your ferment. Taste a small amount: If you are unsure about the safety of your ferment, taste a small amount to see if it has a pleasant taste. Use proper fermentation techniques: To ensure your ferment is safe to eat, follow proper fermentation techniques such as using clean equipment, using the correct amount of salt or starter culture, and fermenting at the correct temperature and time. WHY DO VEGETABLES CHANGE COLOR DURING FERMENTATION? Most vegetables change color slightly during fermentation. The color usually fades. If they are very dark before fermenting, they can color the other vegetables in the jar. For example, beets or purple cabbage can turn the entire jar pink. If you see a pink color, even if there are no vegetables of that color in the jar, it could be contamination, and you should discard the entire jar. Dark layers of vegetables in the jar usually mean that the vegetables were not covered with brine and came into contact with air.