Expert: John Snyder - 4/15/2006

Question
Hi! What are your thoughts on re-using yeast from your last batch?   
              Thanks, -Jim S.

Answer
That's fine,depending on how the yeast is handled.Breweries reuse their yeast,for 5 or 6 fermentations,before replacing.

Yeast handling

1-yeast should be collected from the fermented beer,right after transfer of the beer.Yeast multiplies 3 to 4 times the orginal starting amount.

2-yeast should be washed with cold water(34-36F)after collection.Use bottled water.Washing is just mixing the yeast and water together,then allowing the yeast to settle from the water.Then decant off the water.Yeast should be stored for no longer than 5 days.

3-maintain yeast at 32-33F,with a small layer of water on top,until pitching to a brew

If you have been using dried yeast,you will need to calculate,amount of wet yeast to use.

If using an ale yeast,only use in ale brews,and visa versa,lager yeast in only lager beer.

Any further info you need on yeast handling etc,let me know,and i will be glad to assist you

                    John