Starter using Corn Sugar instead of DME?

rking · 06-15-2009, 08:04 PM

Just a quick question.

Can I use corn sugar for a starter instead of DME?

Ive done some searching but really havent found an answer and the only reason I ask is because the LHBS is out of the smaller packages of extra light and light DME...

TIA

**BlindLemonLars** · 06-15-2009, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rking

Just a quick question.

Can I use corn sugar for a starter instead of DME?

Bad idea...you want to acclimate your yeast to eating the same diet you're going to pitch them into. Some people take it a step further, and try to match the starter gravity to what they are brewing.

I'd go ahead and buy the larger bag of DME. (I'm guessing three pounds?) You'll go through it quicker than you think, and if kept dry it will stay good a very long time.

flyangler18 · 06-15-2009, 08:21 PM

Not a good idea, because the yeast will be ill-adapted to consuming maltose when introduced to the wort.

**olllllo** · 06-15-2009, 08:22 PM

+1 to BLL

What is with all of the corn questions today? Did the Corn Lobby get some stimulus money?

Tonedef131 · 06-15-2009, 08:22 PM

You need to use maltose, because like BlindLemonLars stated they need to be built up on a diet of the same sugar that you want them to eat later. So no corn sugar.

rking · 06-15-2009, 09:42 PM

Much appreciated! Makes sense now...