Yeast is a living single-celled fungus, belongs to the kingdom Fungi,  that is used in both bread and beer making. The species of yeast used in food is called Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a Latin name that means “sugar fungus.” The organism is very common all around you, in the air and on the skin of fruits. 

Although these organisms are often thought to be detrimental to human health, many of them actually exist in the foods you enjoy, such as bread, malt drinks etc. Yeast is a common fungus found both inside and outside the body. The body, however, is equipped to maintain a healthy balance of both bacteria and fungus. 

Benefits derived from yeast  

Leavened bread contains yeast, which is a common fungus both inside and outside the body, as well as an effective organism for making bread rise. Yeast functions by metabolizing the simple sugars of the dough. The byproduct of the metabolic activity is carbon dioxide and alcohol, which in turn causes the bread to rise. That is the reason why yeast is vital in bread baking, brewing and winemaking. This process is referred to as  fermentation, meaning the chemical breakdown of a substance by micro-organism such as yeast. 

Yeast plays such a crucial role in winemaking that without its presence, you cannot turn grape juice into wine. The juice simply will not ferment without the help of yeast. 

Bread baking, beer brewing  and winemaking is a beautiful combination of art, science, magic and involves loads of patience.