The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

Yeast Questions

mshtol's picture
mshtol

Yeast Questions

Hello all! This is my first post here as I am curious about this and can't seem to find a straighforward answer to this so far.

I live in the tropics and room temperature for us is usually around 80 degrees F year-round, may climb higher. I store my packets of active dry yeast (unopened) in my cupboard. It is far from the stove or heat sources but is usually sitting at around 80 or 85 degrees F.

I was watching a tutorial and saw the yeast foam up so much! My yeast never foams up like a beer, though it does bloom somewhat and give signs of life, and I have had no problems with my dough rising so far using this yeast!

I'm confused - have I somehow lessened the strength of my yeast by keeping it at room temp? Should I keep it in the fridge? How come I have had no problem whatsoever with my dough even if my yeast is not blowing up with foam?

I'm a newbie at baking with yeast so would appreciate your help!

Thanks so much :)

Mini Oven's picture
Mini Oven

dont worry about it.  

I would still store it in the fridge if you have the space.  My biggest problem in getting yeast in the tropics was how it was handled before I purchased it.  Not everyone knows that it can be killed or reduced in strength during transportation or on display.  It should be kept cool and out of the sun.  Even your pocket is better than a hot car when bringing it home.  

If you buy bulk, freeze part of it and keep a small jar in the refrigerator for daily use.  It can outlast the expiration date by years if need be.

mshtol's picture
mshtol

Thanks for your answer! I'll opt for the fridge from now on then.

I'm assuming I'll have to bring the yeast to room temperature before using it? Or will just putting it in the warm water for proofing wake it up?

 

Mini Oven's picture
Mini Oven

" Throw us in, we don't care!  Oh, Baby!  Water!  Now the fun begins!"

 

mshtol's picture
mshtol

Hahaha! Thank you so much! :)