If unopened and kept at room temperature, active dry yeast can be used up to one year beyond the expiration date on its package. It will keep even longer if it is frozen. To freeze active dry yeast, place it directly in the freezer in a vacuum sealed container. Once ready to use, the frozen yeast can be used directly without thawing.

If opened, active dry yeast will keep 6 months in the refrigerator and up to a year in the freezer. It is best to keep the yeast in its original container with the opened flap folded closed in a resealable plastic bag. If the yeast is not properly sealed, it can lose about 10% of its rising power per month.

Instant yeast will be good up to a year at room temperature if left unopened. If it is opened, instant yeast will stay fresh for 6 months in the refrigerator and 12 months in the freezer. Keep the yeast in its original container with the opened flap folded closed in a resealable plastic bag.