Sourdough starter gone mouldy!

[Toadflax]

On my third attempt, I got a really good sourdough starter going - first couple of attempts using various Tesco flour didn't really go well, but on this last one I added some elderflowers (idea from Toddy ) and it really frothed up...

...but when I checked the jam-jar in the fridge last night, there was some mould growing up the sides of the jar (where the mix had splashed up the inside of the jar). I would just throw it away but, as I've been trying for about a month now to get a good starter going and there aren't going to be any more elderflowers until next year, I'd like to salvage it if I can.

Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts on whether or not it is advisable to try and salvage the mix, or just put it down to experience.


Geoff

 

[Tadpole]

On my third attempt, I got a really good sourdough starter going - first couple of attempts using various Tesco flour didn't really go well, but on this last one I added some elderflowers (idea from Toddy ) and it really frothed up...

...but when I checked the jam-jar in the fridge last night, there was some mould growing up the sides of the jar (where the mix had splashed up the inside of the jar). I would just throw it away but, as I've been trying for about a month now to get a good starter going and there aren't going to be any more elderflowers until next year, I'd like to salvage it if I can.

Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts on whether or not it is advisable to try and salvage the mix, or just put it down to experience.


Geoff

Get rid/clean off the mould, keep going, however if the mould continues to grow or the starter turns a funny colour throw it out and start again.

 

[Toddy]

I agree.
Basically sourdough is a stable mix of buggits and yeasts that keep each other in check.
Maybe try scooping out some of the mix, avoiding the contaminated sides, and feed this on a new mix of flour and warm water. If it too grows funny I think I'd start again
Sorry if it's my elderflower addmix that's caused the problem, but my own one is stable as as a rock.

cheers,
mary