Bakers yeast

Baker's yeast is a type of yeast used in baking as a leavening agent. It is a single-celled fungus that ferments the carbohydrate in dough, producing carbon dioxide gas and ethanol. This results in the dough rising and becoming light and fluffy.

History

The use of yeast in baking dates back to ancient times. The ancient Egyptians are known to have used yeast in the production of bread. The process of using yeast in baking was refined over centuries, with the development of pure yeast cultures in the 19th century.

Types

There are several types of baker's yeast, including active dry yeast, instant yeast, and fresh yeast. Active dry yeast needs to be dissolved in water before use, while instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dough. Fresh yeast, also known as cake yeast or compressed yeast, is a moist, perishable form of yeast that is often preferred by professional bakers.

Production

Baker's yeast is produced by cultivating Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a nutrient-rich medium. The yeast is then harvested, washed, and packaged for sale. The production process requires careful control of temperature and pH to ensure the growth of healthy yeast cells.

Uses

In addition to its use in baking, baker's yeast is also used in the production of alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine, where it ferments the sugars in the brew to produce alcohol. It is also used in scientific research as a model organism.

Health Benefits

Baker's yeast is a rich source of B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and folate. It also contains minerals such as selenium and zinc. Some studies suggest that consuming baker's yeast may boost the immune system and improve digestive health.

See Also

• Yeast
• Bread
• Fermentation (food)
• Saccharomyces cerevisiae