Yeast

[Krhamm]

What is the expiration or longevity of packaged yeast before opening? Also, should the package yeast be store in a refrigerator or not?

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For the record, i'm getting tired of the rain here in southern Indiana

 

[Wade E]

Stored in fridge is the best. The expiration date is usually on the back.

 

[Luc]

Stored in the fridge dry yeast can be kept a long time. Even longer as a year.
But thats only for dried yeast.
I always buy my yeast in large packages of 500 gram and store it in a sealed container in the fridge.
Deterioration is not from storing but from opening and closing the package.
Everytime you open it some air can get to the yeast. Air is moist and that small bit of moisture might activate some of the yeast which will die cause of lack of nutrients etc.

Best thing to do is (always) make a yeast starter so you know for sure that the yeast is viable.

If you never have made a yeast starter or don't know why read this:
http://wijnmaker.blogspot.com/2007/08/gist-starter-yeast-starter.html

Luc

 

[Wade E]

Liquid yeast has to be stored in the fridge and the expiration date on that is much shorter so dont buy that in excess to save a trip as its also expensive. For beer making liquid yeast is far superior to most dry yeast although there are a few good dry ones like Nottingham and Safele.