Wyeast help.... is it ruined?

[1620HBC]

HI guys been pretty pumped to make my new brew. So the other night i get everything out , i activate my wyeast and then realize I FORGOT TO BUY HOPS!!!! So the activated swollen wyeast has been in my refrige for a few days. On my way to LHBS who i know doesnt carry belgian wyeast but has the hops.... What should I do? Should I pitch it anyway? should I wait and order more? help!!!

 

[Montanaandy]

It's still good but you will probably need to make a starter to ensure enough viability. What is the date on the activator pack? If it is fresh you may get away without a starter but if it is older you will want to make a starter. I always make a starter and have never had a problem with Wyeast/activator pack fermentation and I often use packs that are 6+ months old (I stock up on hard to find strains and then wash them). Montanaandy

 

[1620HBC]

so its okay even if its been activated and sitting in fridge temp? wow really?

 

[Montanaandy]

Yes. You will find that if you continue to use liquid yeast (that is all I use and Wyeast is what I prefer) that often the packs are a bit swollen when you purchase them at the LHBS. I would strongly suggest that you invest in a 2000ml breaker and a stirplate if you are serious about brewing and plan on continuing to use liquid yeast. You will never have to worry about having enough yeast/the date on the smack pack/etc. if you do. Do some research on this board and pay particular attention to Revvy and his posts on starters. Montanaandy