What does a healthy sourdough start look like?

A healthy sourdough starter will be milky white (unless you’ve added whole wheat, rye or other dark flours) and bubbly.

It is normal for liquid (sometimes called “hooch”) to accumulate on the surface of your sourdough starter. This typically happens if excess time passes between feedings. It is normal for the hooch to be clear, grey, dark grey or brown in color. You can pour off the liquid or stir it back into your starter.