Hi, Cindy, once the jar of yeast is open it should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Put a teaspoon of it in warm water with a little sugar and see if he starts bubbling and then you'll know if it's still alive or not. Charlene -----Original Message----- From: blindcooks-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:blindcooks-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Cindy Ray Sent: Thursday, April 17, 2014 11:08 AM To: blindcooks@xxxxxxxxxxxxx Subject: [blindcooks] Yeast If you have a jar of yeast and it has been opened before but it has been in the cupboard for about a year, is it likely to be of any use at this time. I am sure, John, that you know the answer to this question. You make even more bread than I used to. Thank you in advance. Cindy