Tag: Yeast facts

Over 7,000 different species of yeast have been identified, but for bakers, the most important ones need a specific kick-start to do their job. The single most important ingredient to activate yeast is warm liquid, typically water, combined with a food source. This process, known as proofing, is essential for ensuring your yeast is alive and ready to leaven your baked goods.

Despite being a tiny, single-celled organism, instant dry yeast does contain calories, though the amount per baking portion is so minimal it's often considered negligible. The real story lies in what happens during the baking process, where the yeast itself consumes some of its own energy and the sugars in the dough.