Carolyn Bell, RDN, CSSD
Although yeast comes with the following storage instructions, don’t give up on an ‘outdated’ packet or jar of yeast; use the ‘yeast freshness test’ to find out if your yeast is going to perform. Newly purchased yeast (with good purchase-by date), can be stored in a cool location (pantry or cabinet), refrigerated, or frozen for up to two years. Once the yeast is opened, it’s best kept in the refrigerator to use within four months, and six months – if kept in the freezer.
If you need yeast right away and yours is outdated, don’t give up quite yet! Try this Red Star Yeast Freshness Test to see if your yeast is still active:
- Using a one-cup liquid measuring cup, dissolve 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar in ½ cup warm tap water at 110°-115° (If you don’t have a thermometer, the tap water should be warm, but not hot to the touch.
- Stir in one ¼ oz. packet (7g) or 2 ¼ teaspoons of dry yeast until there are no more dry yeast granules on top. Yeast should be at room temperature before using.
- In 3-4 minutes, the yeast will have absorbed enough liquid to activate and start to rise.
- After 10 minutes, the foamy yeast mixture should have risen to the 1-cup mark and have a rounded top.
- If this happens, your yeast is very active and should be used in your recipe immediately.
- Remember to deduct ½ cup liquid from the recipe to adjust for the water used in this test.
- If the yeast did not rise to the 1-cup mark, your yeast has little or no activity. Discard this yeast.
I'm an experienced culinary enthusiast with a deep understanding of baking and the science behind yeast fermentation. Over the years, I've honed my skills as a home baker and have extensively researched the intricacies of working with yeast. I've experimented with various types of yeast, storage methods, and techniques to ensure optimal performance in baking.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article dated 07/28/2016 by Carolyn Bell, RDN, CSSD,The article primarily discusses the storage and viability of yeast, emphasizing the importance of assessing its freshness before use. Here are the key concepts covered:
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Yeast Storage Instructions:
- Newly purchased yeast, with a valid purchase-by date, can be stored in a cool location (pantry or cabinet), refrigerated, or frozen for up to two years.
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Optimal Storage Periods:
- Once the yeast is opened, it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator and use it within four months. If stored in the freezer after opening, it can last up to six months.
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Yeast Freshness Test:
- If you have outdated yeast but need it for immediate use, the article introduces the "Red Star Yeast Freshness Test" to determine if the yeast is still active.
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Yeast Freshness Test Procedure:
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar in ½ cup warm tap water (110°-115°) in a one-cup liquid measuring cup.
- Stir in ¼ oz. packet (7g) or 2 ¼ teaspoons of dry yeast until there are no dry yeast granules on top.
- The yeast should be at room temperature before using.
- Within 3-4 minutes, the yeast should start to rise after absorbing enough liquid.
- After 10 minutes, the foamy yeast mixture should reach the 1-cup mark with a rounded top.
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Interpreting the Results:
- If the yeast rises to the 1-cup mark with a rounded top, it indicates high activity, and the yeast is suitable for immediate use in a recipe. It's important to deduct ½ cup of liquid from the recipe to account for the water used in the test.
- If the yeast does not reach the 1-cup mark, it suggests low or no activity, and the yeast should be discarded.
By following these guidelines and the freshness test, bakers can ensure the optimal performance of yeast in their recipes, even if the yeast has surpassed the recommended storage period. This information is crucial for anyone who wants to achieve successful fermentation and leavening in their baked goods.
