Hi Megan, if you've been feeding your starter regularly and keeping it in the refrigerator, it is unlikely to have spoiled, but I would recommend a few days of twice a day feedings at room temperature to be sure no more red streaks appear and that your starter is able to double in size within 6-8 hours after a feeding. The aroma of your starter should also be pleasant, or at least not unpleasant. The aroma of a healthy starter can vary between mild, yeasty or tangy, but should not smell funky or like acetone (nail polish remover). If you're getting an off odor, keep feeding at room temperature until the aroma improves.
Whenever you plan to store your starter in the refrigerator, be sure to give it a feeding first and let it sit out for a few hours at room temperature so it starts bubbling and fermenting before you stick it in the fridge. Sticking it right in the fridge after a feeding can make it shut down too soon, and it may not be getting the opportunity to ferment properly. I would also be careful to cover it securely with a lid.
January 20, 2023 at 2:57pm
In reply to My starter is a few months… by Megan (not verified)
Hi Megan, if you've been feeding your starter regularly and keeping it in the refrigerator, it is unlikely to have spoiled, but I would recommend a few days of twice a day feedings at room temperature to be sure no more red streaks appear and that your starter is able to double in size within 6-8 hours after a feeding. The aroma of your starter should also be pleasant, or at least not unpleasant. The aroma of a healthy starter can vary between mild, yeasty or tangy, but should not smell funky or like acetone (nail polish remover). If you're getting an off odor, keep feeding at room temperature until the aroma improves.
Whenever you plan to store your starter in the refrigerator, be sure to give it a feeding first and let it sit out for a few hours at room temperature so it starts bubbling and fermenting before you stick it in the fridge. Sticking it right in the fridge after a feeding can make it shut down too soon, and it may not be getting the opportunity to ferment properly. I would also be careful to cover it securely with a lid.