What are dry and pressed yeast made from and how are they made?

Yeast is a living microorganism used in the preparation of various baked goods and beverages. It is responsible for the superior flavor, fluffiness, and porosity of the finished product, and also enriches it with vitamins and minerals.

Today I'll tell you what yeast is made from and how, what goes into a sourdough starter, and how to make it yourself.

Yeast: What is it made of?

Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is a microorganism belonging to a group of single-celled fungi comprising over a thousand species. Baker's yeast, however, is an artificially created fungus that does not exist in nature. It contains inorganic substances, carbohydrates, nitrogen, proteins, and fats. It also contains vitamins B2, B9, B12, E, and H, as well as a whole complex of macro- and microelements. Thanks to such a rich composition, yeast can be considered a universal dietary supplement or biologically active substance essential for the proper functioning of the entire body.

How is yeast made?

Yeast acts as a biological leavening agent and is essential for the preparation of various baked goods. If you ask what yeast is made from, you won't get a definitive answer. There are many types of these microorganisms, but the baking industry uses only nutritional yeast, which absorbs nutrients and releases carbon dioxide.

Liquid yeast and starters: how and from what are they made?

Sourdough (liquid yeast) is a natural product that our great-great-grandmothers used for baking. To make a sourdough starter, flour and water are mixed together. Over time, yeast spores and lactic acid bacteria begin to develop in this mixture, producing carbon dioxide.

Typically, only a portion of the prepared starter is used for dough, while the remaining mixture is regularly fed to grow a new batch, adding flour and water. It is stored in the refrigerator for a long time. Once prepared, the starter can be used for decades.

Baked goods made with this sourdough starter are especially delicious, don't crumble, and don't go stale for a long time. This is thanks to the presence of various yeast cultures and lactic acid bacteria, which act as natural preservatives. This sourdough starter is ideal for any yeast-based baked goods.

Pressed baker's yeast: manufacturing features

Compressed baker's yeast (raw yeast) is fresh, minimally dehydrated, pressed live fungal microorganisms (containing approximately 70% moisture). It is produced in the form of gray-brown briquettes. Before use, it must be activated by dissolving it in warm (35-40°C) water or milk with a small amount of sugar and flour (no salt).

Live yeast can be stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks or in the freezer for 2-3 months. If streaks appear on the surface or the yeast changes color, it's best not to use it.

This type of yeast is usually added to rich doughs that require long and repeated proofing.

How is dry yeast obtained?

Dry yeast is produced from pressed yeast, which is crushed and dried with hot air in special machines. This results in "dormant" microorganisms that, when exposed to a moist environment, awaken and begin to work.

The dried product is packaged in airtight containers. They remain shelf-stable for a long time and don't require special temperature or humidity conditions. After opening, they can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for several months or in the freezer for up to 2 years.

Dry yeast is divided into active and instant:

• Active ones need to be activated before cooking. They are soaked in warm water with a small amount of sugar.
• Instant flours have finer granules and don't require soaking. They're simply mixed with flour and used in the recipe.

Dry yeast is used for bread, braids, and homemade pizza. It's easy to use and easy to store.

Video: How yeast is produced in a factory

To make real yeast at home, you'll need just two simple ingredients and a little time. The result is a natural sourdough starter that can be used to create delicious and flavorful baked goods.

This video describes and demonstrates in detail the process of making a sourdough starter and the dry dough made from it. Once you master the recipe, you'll be able to have a healthy homemade sourdough starter forever and bake delicious and healthy baked goods for yourself and your family.

Now you know what yeast is made of, the different types, and what it's used for. With this knowledge, you can choose the right yeast and even make your own at home.