Hey guys quick question for the home brew veterans: I ordered some yeast from Midwest Supplies on 8/14 and arrived today (8/20) it is wyeast in a direct pitch activator pack. I received it today and when I opened the box the yeast was packed in between two ice packs that where not cold any more. I put the yeast in the fridge right away but now I am worried the yeast will not be good since it was most likely exposed to non optimal temperatures towards the end of its transits. I will not be using the yeast until my hops are ready to be harvest from my yard. Should I just by new yeast locally or is the yeast I purchased on line ok to use. Any way for me to tell? thanks for your time!
The beauty of Wyeast Smack Packs is that by smacking them you can prove that the yeast is still viable; the expanding pack demonstrates that you have viable yeast inside the pack. If the transport has you concerned, make a yeast starter. Cheers!
As others said, make a starter. Even if the pack hadn't been exposed to summer temps, a starter is in order for most (5 gallon) worts, IMO. There are several good yeast calculators out there to suggest proper starter sizes.
I agree with the starter option. I always like to have a couple of dry yest packs on hand just for these circumstances. A couple bucks each, and they won't leave you pushing back brew dates. Good luck, and Cheers!
