Additive-free yeast answers
Allinson’s and Doves Farm reply to the Real Bread Campaign.
The Real Bread Campaign’s asked two companies that used to sell additive-free dried active yeast:
- What was the reason for withdrawing your additive-free dried active yeast?
- Might you reintroduce it and, if so, what would need to happen to persuade you to do so?
Their replies were as follows.
Doves Farm
‘Unfortunately, this product simply became commercially unviable as a line for us as customer demand decreased. If this was to reverse significantly and other commercial conditions were met, we might reconsider in the future.’
Allinson’s
'This sorbitan monostearate is an emulsifier that is used within the process of growing yeast cultures. Its presence as an emulsifier ensures an even dispersion of yeast within the growing broth so that it can also be dried and reconstituted in a manner that is less harmful to the yeast. This enhances the effectiveness of the yeast when it is used by the consumer, with it appearing to act faster to provide a rise in the dough.
The absence of the material would consequently have a qualitative impact that may also reflect on perceived shelf life effectiveness. These issues would need to be given thorough consideration before considering its removal from a formulation.’
We replied that we are aware of the technical function that the additive can serve, and also that it is unnecessary – as demonstrated by companies (which once included Allinsons’) selling dried yeast without it. We then repeated our original questions.
Allinson’s replied: ‘There are no plans to change the yeast.’
See also
Published Wednesday 12 June 2024
Real Bread Campaign: The Real Bread Campaign finds and shares ways to make bread better for us, better for our communities and better for the planet. Whether your interest is local food, community-focussed small enterprises, honest labelling, therapeutic baking, or simply tasty toast, everyone is invited to become a Campaign supporter.
