Left my wyeast out, is it ruined?

[Jiver63]

I had an order delivered to my house and my wife put it downstairs in my basement, we then went on vacation. The wyeast has been in the box since. It's been 5 days at a temp of about 68 to 70 degrees. Is it ruined? I was planning on brewing a Black IPA. Should I order another Wyeast smack pack?
I was planning on doing a yeast starter. Thoughts?

 

[joftinac]

Has the smack pack swelled much? If so, how much?

I'd suggest you activate it and see if it swells at all. If it does, make your starter as planned.

Even if it swells a little after activation, your starter will probably revive enough to ferment well. If you're uncomfortable with that, step up your starter once, then pitch.

 

[sockmerchant]

Should be fine. Smack it and make starter. I often keep my yeast at those temps for weeks and they seem quite happy. I mean inside my fermenter of course, but the point stands.

Make a decent sized starter, you'll be fine