Dry yeast is a common baking ingredient that helps dough rise. Proper storage is important to keep dry yeast fresh and active. There are a few key things to know about storing dry yeast.
Keep It Cool and Dry
Dry yeast needs to be stored in a cool, dry environment. The ideal temperature range is between 40-70°F. If stored at cooler temperatures, dry yeast will last longer before expiring. High temperatures above 110°F can kill off the yeast, rendering it inactive. Likewise, moisture is detrimental to dry yeast. Keeping it in an airtight container protects against humidity.
Watch Expiration Dates
Dry yeast has a shelf life and will expire after a certain period of time. With optimal storage, dry yeast typically lasts for 1-2 years past the printed expiration date. Pay attention to expiration or best-by dates and use the oldest yeast first if you have multiple packages. Old yeast may still be usable but may need more time to proof and activate when making dough.
Keep It Sealed
After opening a package of dry yeast, it’s important to reseal it tightly to block out excess air and moisture. Oxygen absorption over time degrades dry yeast’s performance. An opened package stored in a cool, dry spot should stay fresh for up to 6 months. For longer storage, consider freezing unused yeast.
Refrigerator Storage
The refrigerator is a good option for storing dry yeast if you don’t plan to use it often. Keep dry yeast in an airtight container in the back of the fridge, where temperature is most consistent. Avoid the door shelves, which fluctuate in temperature with frequent opening. Refrigerated, unopened dry yeast will stay viable for up to a year past the expiration date before quality begins to decline.
Freezer Storage
For long-term storage, the freezer can extend dry yeast’s shelf life even longer. To freeze, repackage yeast in an airtight container and store in a constant 0°F freezer. At this temperature, yeast can last for years while maintaining its leavening power. Thaw frozen yeast in the refrigerator before use.
Avoid Moisture Exposure
Moisture is the enemy of dry yeast. Exposure to liquid or humidity will activate the yeast prematurely and deplete its leavening ability. Always keep dry yeast away from direct contact with water or condensation until ready to use. A compromised package that has gotten wet should not be refrigerated or frozen – it’s best to discard it.
Watch for Signs It’s Gone Bad
Expired or improperly stored yeast will show signs it has gone bad and should no longer be used. Dry yeast that has an off smell, appearance or taste has likely spoiled. Yeast that fails to bubble or foam when hydrated indicates loss of activity. Discard any yeast you suspect is no longer effective.
Store in an Airtight Container
For optimum freshness, dry yeast should be transferred from its original packaging into an airtight container for storage. This prevents air and moisture from entering and preserves yeast quality. Suitable airtight containers include plastic ware with tight-fitting lids, resealable plastic bags and glass jars with clamped lids.
Keep It in the Pantry
Unopened, shelf-stable dry yeast can be stored in a kitchen pantry or cabinet. Choose a cool, dark place in the pantry away from heat sources like the oven. Avoid storing yeast above the stove or next to the dishwasher where moisture and warmth can develop. Keeping it in a back corner of a lower pantry shelf is ideal.
Don’t Store in the Fridge Door
It may be tempting to stash dry yeast in a refrigerator door compartment for easy access. However, this is not the best spot. The door is the warmest part of the fridge and is exposed to humid air each time it’s opened. Interior fridge shelves have more stable temperatures and humidity for better yeast storage.
Freeze for Long-Term Storage
Dry yeast that is kept frozen at 0°F can be stored indefinitely without losing effectiveness. To freeze, place yeast in moisture-proof packaging such as a freezer bag with the air pressed out or an airtight plastic container. Label with the date and yeast type before freezing. Frozen yeast will last for years until ready to thaw and use.
Pay Attention to Packaging
Always inspect dry yeast packaging before storage. Make sure it’s tightly sealed with no tears, holes or compromises that could allow in air and moisture. Loose packaging can cause dry yeast to deteriorate faster. Resealable packets or jars work best for maintaining freshness after opening.
Keep Inventory and Rotate Stock
To avoid yeast expiration, keep an inventory of what’s in your pantry and freezer. Use the oldest yeast first, moving newer packages to the back. Mark packages with the date they were purchased or opened. This way, you can keep yeast stock rotated and track freshness.
Store Yeast for Quick Access
For bakers who use dry yeast frequently, keep a small supply in a kitchen pantry or cupboard for easy access. Have back-up inventory stored in the refrigerator or freezer. A kitchen stash allows you to grab yeast quickly when inspiration to bake strikes.
What Not To Do
There are a few common yeast storage mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t leave yeast out on the counter at room temperature.
- Don’t store yeast in a humid environment.
- Don’t allow yeast to get wet or moist before use.
- Don’t use yeast that is past the expiration date or smells odd.
Following proper dry yeast storage methods helps retain viability and leavening ability. With the right techniques, dry yeast can last well over its printed expiration date, saving you money while ensuring your baked goods turn out perfectly leavened every time.
Troubleshooting Storage Issues
Sometimes yeast storage doesn’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Yeast Got Wet
If dry yeast gets exposed to liquid, it can begin activating prematurely. Discard wet yeast rather than trying to salvage it.
Yeast Smells Funny
An off smell means yeast has likely spoiled. Don’t use it – the odor will carry into baked goods.
Yeast Isn’t Foaming
When proofed, yeast should foam and bubble. No foaming indicates dead yeast that won’t leaven dough.
Dough Isn’t Rising
If stored yeast fails to make dough rise, the yeast has lost its leavening power. Check expiration dates and store fresher yeast properly.
Condensation in Container
Wipe away moisture build-up to maintain a stable environment. Switch to an airtight storage container.
Warmer Temperature
Move yeast to a cooler spot. Warmer temperatures shorten shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does refrigerated yeast need to come to room temperature before baking?
Yes, chilled yeast should be allowed to come to room temperature before use. This helps activate the yeast for faster proofing and leavening.
Where is the best place to store yeast in the refrigerator?
The back of a refrigerator shelf works best, where the temperature is most stable. Avoid storing yeast in the door.
Can yeast be frozen more than once?
It’s best to freeze yeast just once for storage. Repeated freezing and thawing will decrease yeast potency over time.
How do you know if yeast has expired?
Signs of expired yeast include an off smell, appearance or taste, lack of foaming when hydrated, or failure to make dough rise.
Does yeast need air to stay alive?
No. Yeast will stay viable longer when stored in an airtight container without excess air exposure.
Can you use yeast after the expiration date?
Dry yeast can often be used for up to 1-2 years past the printed expiration date if it has been stored properly in cool, dry conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Store dry yeast in a cool, dry place around 40-70°F.
- Keep yeast sealed in an airtight container away from moisture and humidity.
- Check expiration dates and use older yeast first.
- Refrigeration can extend shelf life to 1 year past expiration.
- Freezing yeast extends shelf life for years.
- Discard yeast that is wet, smells odd or fails to proof properly.
Conclusion
Following proper storage methods allows dry yeast to retain its freshness and leavening power long past the expiration date on the package. An ideal storage place is the refrigerator or freezer, sealed in an airtight container. Dry yeast will last indefinitely when frozen and for up to a year refrigerated. Even at room temperature, keeping yeast dry and cool gives it a longer shelf life. Pay attention to signs of spoilage and discard any yeast that smells off or doesn’t foam when proofed. With the right storage and rotation, dry yeast can be kept on hand for months to years, saving money and avoiding last-minute trips to the store.
