Leavening Agents: Yeast (Baker’s Active Dry)
When it comes to baking, one of the most essential ingredients for achieving light, fluffy textures in breads and pastries is yeast, particularly baker’s active dry yeast. This leavening agent works by fermenting the sugars in dough, producing carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise. Active dry yeast is widely used for its stability, shelf life, and reliable results in a variety of baked goods, including loaves of bread, rolls, and pizza dough.
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s a closer look at the nutritional profile per 100g of baker’s active dry yeast:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 325 kcal |
| Protein | 40.44 g |
| Fat | 7.61 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.001 g |
| Carbohydrates | 41.22 g |
| Fiber | 26.9 g |
| Sugar | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 30.0 mg |
| Iron | 2.17 mg |
| Magnesium | 54 mg |
| Phosphorus | 637 mg |
| Potassium | 955 mg |
| Sodium | 51 mg |
| Zinc | 7.94 mg |
| Copper | 0.436 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.312 mg |
| Selenium | 7.9 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.3 mg |
| Thiamine (Vitamin B1) | 10.99 mg |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | 4.0 mg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 40.2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.5 mg |
| Folate (Vitamin B9) | 2340 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.07 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information
Baker’s active dry yeast is generally considered safe for most individuals and is naturally gluten-free. However, it’s important to note that those with specific yeast sensitivities or allergies should avoid using products containing this ingredient. Always check labels carefully for possible contamination with allergens like gluten, which could occur during manufacturing or packaging processes.
Dietary Preferences
Active dry yeast can be used in a wide range of dietary plans. It’s suitable for:
- Vegetarian and Vegan diets: As a plant-derived ingredient, it fits into vegetarian and vegan meal plans.
- Gluten-Free diets: Although yeast itself does not contain gluten, it is important to ensure that any recipe using yeast is prepared with gluten-free ingredients if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
- Low-Sugar diets: Since yeast does not contain sugar, it’s a good option for those managing sugar intake.
Advice for Use
Baker’s active dry yeast must be activated before use. Typically, it is dissolved in warm water (not hot), as hot water can kill the yeast. Always check the expiration date on the packet, as old yeast can fail to rise and cause baking failures. To ensure consistent results, store your yeast in a cool, dry place, and use it within the suggested time frame for best performance.
Conclusion
Baker’s active dry yeast is an indispensable ingredient in many baking recipes, delivering the rise and texture that make bread, rolls, and pizza dough deliciously fluffy. Its rich nutritional profile, including a high protein content and essential minerals like iron, phosphorus, and magnesium, makes it a valuable addition to your kitchen pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, yeast can help you create the perfect baked goods every time.
