Newbie here! Wyeast Smack Pack. I Smacked it weeks ago

[kyejules]

Hi! My first post here, just about to do my second ever brew day.

I got a Wyeast smack pack that was Smacked about 2 or 3 weeks ago, and was left at room temperature.

Can I use it in a brew today? Will it work?? I've tried searching online but it's all mixed opinions, or people saying Just refrigerate it, but it's been sat at room temp the whole time

Thank you for any tips!

 

[IslandLizard]

You really need to make a starter from liquid yeast to get the needed cell count for your batch. The packages do not contain anywhere near what you need, unless it's a really small batch (<2 gallons) or the gravity is low (<1.040).

Look at Mr. Malty or Homebrew Dad's Yeast Calc, the latter one being my favorite.

Since your yeast has been sitting at room temps, the viability has gone down more rapidly than if it were stored in a fridge, so more reason for a starter. You don't need a stir plate, just a large jar or 1/2 gallon or gallon jug. Many threads here, e.g., the sticky "primer," and Youtube vids on that topic.

Now alternatively you could prepare a "Vitality" starter as described on Brulosopher's website, but you do need a decent cell count to start with, which I doubt you have right now.