Does yeast expire?

Unopened packets or jars of dry yeast keep about 2 years in a cool, dry place. Once opened, yeast must go in the fridge, where it keeps about 4 months, or the freezer, where it keeps about 6 months.

Food	Fridge	Freezer	Pantry
Dry yeast (packets or jar)Must be refrigerated or frozen once opened.	—Opened: 4 months	6 months	2 yearsfrom purchase

Fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder, freezer at −18 °C (0 °F). Freezer times are for best quality: food kept frozen stays safe, but slowly loses taste and texture. These times are USDA guidance, not a guarantee. When in doubt, throw it out.

How to tell if yeast has gone bad

It fails the proof test: no foam after 10 minutes in warm water with sugar.
Dough that doesn't rise in the expected time.
Clumped, damp or discolored granules.

How to store yeast

Keep unopened packets in a cool, dry cupboard.
Once opened, close the jar or fold the packet tightly and keep it in the fridge or freezer.
Fresh (cake) yeast is far more perishable: keep it in the fridge and follow its date.

Can you freeze yeast?

Yes. Opened dry yeast keeps about 6 months in the freezer in an airtight container. Use it straight from frozen, or let it reach room temperature for a few minutes.

Questions

How do you test yeast?

Stir 1 teaspoon of sugar and the yeast into 120 ml (1/2 cup) of warm water, about 40 °C (105 °F). If it foams within 10 minutes, it's active.

Can you use expired yeast?

It's safe, but it may not make your dough rise. Proof it first; if it barely foams, replace it.

How long does fresh yeast last?

Fresh compressed yeast is much more perishable than dry yeast: keep it in the fridge and follow the date on the pack. It can be frozen, though it loses some strength.

Add baking staples to ShelfLife with the date you opened them.

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