Sarah Mitchell

Senior Editor & Recipe Development Specialist
Making the science of fermentation accessible to busy families and modern home crafters. Where culinary innovation meets traditional fermentation.
After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America with a Master’s in Culinary Innovation and completing my food science research at UC Davis, I found my true passion at the intersection of scientific fermentation and home brewing. Today, I combine my expertise in food science with practical, family friendly approaches to help others discover the joy of crafting fermented beverages at home.
Educational Background
- Master’s in Culinary Innovation, Culinary Institute of America
- B.S. in Food Science, UC Davis
- Certificate in Food Fermentation, Nordic Food Lab
- Certified Kombucha Brewer, International Kombucha Association
- Advanced Probiotic Science Certification, Fermentation Institute
Professional Journey
My path to fermentation expertise began in UC Davis’s food science laboratories, where I researched probiotic beverage development and fermentation optimization. This scientific foundation, combined with my culinary training, allows me to approach fermentation from both a technical and practical perspective.
Areas of Expertise
- Probiotic Beverage Development
- Family-Friendly Fermentation Methods
- Food Safety & Quality Control
- Recipe Standardization
- Kombucha & Kefir Production
- Traditional Dairy Ferments
- Quick-Ferment Methods
- Natural Flavoring Techniques
As a mother to 3 year old Emma, I understand the challenges of maintaining a fermentation practice while juggling family life. This experience inspired my popular Practical Fermentation series, which helps busy individuals integrate fermentation projects into their daily routines.
Through my work at DIY Wine at Home, I strive to make fermentation accessible to everyone, regardless of their scientific background or time constraints. I believe that with the right guidance, anyone can create healthy, delicious fermented beverages at home.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking to start your fermentation journey or an experienced brewer seeking to expand your knowledge, I’m here to help you navigate the fascinating world of fermented beverages with confidence and success.
Good fermentation is a balance of science and simplicity. Let’s discover that balance together. Join me in exploring the wonderful world of fermentation, where every bubble tells a story and every batch is an adventure in flavor and science.