Can I use a packet of yeast after it's been opened?
Asked by
occ (
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August 21st, 2010
I have a recipe that calls for ¼ tsp of baking yeast, which is less than a full packet. I used it about a week ago, and saved the rest of the packet in my cabinet. Can I still use the rest of the yeast? Or is there some reason it would lose it’s efficacy after being exposed to air?
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6 Answers
It should be fine as long as it didn’t get wet. You can buy yeast by the jar and it says good for a long time – especially in the refrigerator. Have fun and good luck!
I’ve always done this, as mentioned make sure that it doesn’t get wet. For the best storage you should try to minimise as much moisture exposure as possible.
If you use yeast a lot I would recommend getting them in resealable tubs if possible. Something like http://www.spicesofindia.co.uk/acatalog/Allinson-Dried-Active-Yeast-Big.jpg if you have that where you live. Just be warned that sometimes you have to activate the yeast before it works (make sure to read the instructions). I don’t mind doing this though as I know that the yeast will definitely do its job :).
Also a bonus is these tubs are generally inexpensive compared to packet mixes and last you ages. For example the one above costs only 56pence and has 125g which is more than half price compared to the packets.
Keep it dry and cool and it should be fine. I buy yeast by the jarful for baking bread and keep it in the frige. Lasts very well.
as @majorrich said, keeping it cool and dry is what’s important. You can also freeze leftover yeast for even longer life. I’ve used yeast that had been frozen for 5 years and it was fine.
It will be OK. I buy two lb bags of yeast and keep in the freezer.
As long as you keep it dry and isolated from contamination, the yeast should be fine. The freezer is a good place to store it.
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