Yeast in the 1 lb. packages are intended for "bakers" that use it on a daily basis and it stays on the counter. The 7-day instructions are for those who leave it out as bakers do. They use it fast and do not have to worry about the expiration date.

I called Red Star Yeast and asked about the 7-day instructions. We are to ignore that and just keep a six weeks supply in a closed glass jar in the refrigerator and freeze the rest in a closed glass jar in the freezer up to 6-months.

-- Marie (prettyhollow@yahoo.com), February 09, 2002

Answers

I've had yeast in the freezer for over 2 years and it still works.

-- Cindy (SE. IN) (atilrthehony@hotmail.com), February 09, 2002.

You can freeze yeast????? Didn't know that as I thought freezing would kill it, learn something new everyday. Thanks for the tip ladies. Sally

-- (mallardhen67@hotmail.com), February 21, 2002.

There is a slight loss of rising power but not enough to notice. Do not freeze the "fresh" yeast. It is more fragile than the dried granular yeast.

As long as you keep the lid to jar closed tight yeast will keep for years in the freezer.

If you have some for a long time in the freezer it is wise to "proof" some before using just to be sure it is still powerful.

-- Marie (prettyhollow@yahoo.com), February 21, 2002.