US-05 image courtesy of MoreBeer’s Safale US-05 Offering

I periodically brew small batches that require less that a full packet of dry yeast.  See: Small Batch, All Grain Stove Top Brewing + Water Calculation Spreadsheet.  For that matter, sometimes larger beers require a full packet plus.

To save money and reduce waste, I use my vacuum sealer to store partial packets of dried yeast.

Here’s the procedure I use…

1. Determine the proper amount of yeast using a pitching rate calculator.
2. Prepare the proper amount of re-hydration water.  Generally, you’ll prepare 10 grams of water for every one gram of yeast needed, but consult manufacturer’s directions.  Check out Tip 1 on our tips page for how I do this using a lab bottle in the microwave.
3. Put the prepared rehydration water on an accurate gram scale – I use the AWS-100 from American Weigh [Hands on Review].  Make sure the scale has a “tare” feature or otherwise account for the weight of the container and water.
4. Zero the scale out using the tare feature.
5. Cut the yeast packet open and slowly pour the yeast into the rehydration water.  Careful, there’s no going back if you pour too much.  🙂
6. When I get the amount of yeast I’m looking for, I immediately seal the yeast packet (if it’s a mylar type material) using the heat strip sealer on my vacuum sealer.
7. I write the amount of remaining yeast on the packet using a Sharpie and then seal that in vacuum bag for additional protection.

This is quick and easy, reduces waste and saves money.

Some gear and ingredients to consider…

• FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer V2244 – Hands on Review
• Amazon Best Sellers in Vacuum Sealers – this category can include vacuum sealers along with supplies and accessories
• Search 500 ml polypropylene bottles – on Amazon.  I use these bottles for rehydrating yeast
• An infrared thermometer – Amazon Best Sellers in Infrared Thermometers
• American Weigh 100g x 0.01g Digital Scale – Hands on Review
• Safale US-05 via MoreBeer
• Safale S-04 (3 ct.11.5 g Packs) via Amazon
• Safale US-05 (3 ct.11.5 g Packs) via Amazon
• Dry Yeast at William’s Brewing – William’s carries a variety of manufacturers and strains including (as of this update) Safale, Lallemand, and Mangrove Jacks

Related: Yeast: The Practical Guide to Beer Fermentation & Best Sellers in Lab Erlenmeyers – via Amazon | StirStarter Stir Plate | Yeast Starters and Fermentation Resource Page

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Make sure the components you use are compatible and rated for your intended application.  Contact manufacturer with questions about suitability or a specific application.  Always read and follow manufacturer directions.

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