Storing starter yeast

[Twofox]

I've been searching, but haven't found anything specific, so here goes.

I made a starter last batch, and then sanitized some white labs vials that I had and poured some of the slurry into them. They've been in the fridge door for a few weeks now.

There is a layer of yeast in the bottom of each, but there is a brown surface layer on that yeast. It has been there for a couple of weeks with no apparent change.

Are they going bad? Or are they ok?

 

[st_brewer]

hey, what is happening is a process called oxidation, dead yeast on the surface is being oxidised and becoming discoloured, usually yeast can keep for awhile, which I have recently learnt, dont worry about the discolouration, however over time the viability of your yeast will drop, keep your tubes air tight and use them relativly soon.

Saint

 

[jeffd10]

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[Twofox]

That makes sense. How long do you think they will keep that way?

Also, there is only a little bit of yeast in there, maybe the size of your thumbnail. Will that be enough to use in a regular starter?

 

[st_brewer]

I couldnt say for sure I'm afraid and yes it will, what you need to do is prime it, suspend it in a sugary warm solution and your yeast will multiply over a day or so, then pitch your starter