Overripe Starter

A starter that's gone past peak and run low on food. It has usually fallen back down in the jar, smells sharply sour or like acetone, and may be thin, soupy, or topped with a layer of hooch. It can still raise bread but often more slowly, and its extra acid can weaken the dough.

By Henry Hunter · Updated October 1, 2026

Henry's notes from the bench

• An overripe starter isn't dead, it's hungry. Give it one or two regular feedings and it'll usually bounce right back.