Freezing yeast

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Ken L

Landlord.
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It seems to be accepted wisdom that you can freeze bread dough without killing the yeast.
Has anyone tried it with brewing yeasts?
Seems like it might be a good option for those using specific strains.
 
I have frozen a few starters before (accidentally) and some of the yeast will survive. Though i would not recommend pitching it without making a starter. Last time i tried it i had no activity after 24 hours so pitched fresh yeast. Have heard of frozen dried yeast lasting 10 years.
 
I made a batch of cider this year with some love brewing champagne yeast that had been opened, resealed, and left in the fridge for a year. seemed to ferment just as fast as my other batches, not tasted it yet.
 
Swmbo put all my stock of dried yeast in the freezer without my knowledge, "because I put the hops in there". :doh: However after much moaning from me, there didn't seem to be any ill effects. I have now used all of it with no problems, although I have told her if it happens again I'll have to buy lots more. :wink:
 
It's fine to store dry yeast in the freezer as it comes, liquid yeast however, as bigcol says, needs a bit of work to make it freezer safe.
 
Interesting.
I was thinking of using glycerine to help guard against ice crystals and the article backs up the idea.
I already have the test tubes so I may give it a shot.
 
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