How long with yeast last?

I am thinking of starting 1 gal batches so that I can make many varieties without much risk of having a lot left over if I mess up or don't like the beer. The biggest problem with cutting recipes I see is the yeast. If I buy a dry yeast packet can I just use 20% of the total weight? Should I just put the extra in a zip lock bag and put it in the cabinet? How long can I store dry yeast?

I think once you open a packet of dry yeast, you have to use it. Maybe there's some way to save it, but I doubt a zip lock bag would suffice. I;m curious whether others have found a way to save an opened packet.

The best way to get the most out of your yeast is to re-use it from the bottom of the fermenter.

If you tape the packet shut and stick it in the fridge it will be fine to use. I've done it and used it months later.

I started with one gallon also.Just two batches then 2 gallon i would reccomend a two gallon bucket or 3 gallon carboy.Doing 2 gallons you can third everything and 2.5 just half.
For one gallon i wouldnt use more than a third of the yeast.For my 2 gallon batches i use 3-4 grams sometimes half a 11.5gram pack. I have rolled it up and just stuck it in fridge but have since got a vacuume sealer for baggies.Your just going to want to use it up on your next batches.I would find a cool dry place or the fridge just seal it good.
I would also recommend keeping your fridge clean of mold rotting food spills moisture...

BigTexBrewer said:

I am thinking of starting 1 gal batches so that I can make many varieties without much risk of having a lot left over if I mess up or don't like the beer. The biggest problem with cutting recipes I see is the yeast. If I buy a dry yeast packet can I just use 20% of the total weight? Should I just put the extra in a zip lock bag and put it in the cabinet? How long can I store dry yeast?

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I cant remember where I read it, perhaps on the Fermentis site, but I believe they say officially that using the safale products that you should use the yeast within a week of opening. It can stay in the fridge for quite some time if it is un-opened.

I would suspect that it might last longer as Revvey mentions as long as you seal it up and leave in the fridge.

Ziplock used to make a ziplock back with a funny little pump thing that sucked the air out of the bags....dunno if they still have em, would be cheaper than a real vacuum sealer. Tape it shut, throw in a baggie, vacuum and you gold.

VB