A recent announcement from Fermentis signals a significant evolution in a fundamental brewing input, focusing not just on the yeast itself but on the technology that delivers it.

Following major upgrades to its production facilities at Algist Bruggeman in Ghent, Belgium, the company has rolled out an active dry yeast of exceptional microbiological quality, supported by an innovative packaging and marking system designed to address logistical and quality control challenges faced by breweries.

These new standards manifest in two significant outcomes for brewers. At the microbiological level, the yeast now features a presence of cross-contaminant yeast that is at a minimum of 2 logs lower than any other commercially available active dry yeast.

This new quality benchmark for dry yeast is protected and enhanced by a completely redesigned packaging system that responds directly to customer needs. This system combines several features that work together to streamline brewery operations, including:

• A unique patented piercing device (Percy™) & Easy-To-Open technology
• Main marking with booklet label allowing marking in multiple languages to support global operations
• On-demand customizable secondary label printing to meet market- or customer-specific requirements; and make yeast to order (MTO) versus making yeast to stock (MTS).

For traceability, a critical component of modern quality assurance programmes, each package is assigned a unique QR code for enhanced product traceability. This allows for precise product tracking from the point of supply to the fermentation vessel.

The packaging also supports global operations with a main booklet label that allows for marking in multiple languages, alongside on-demand customizable secondary label printing to meet specific market or customer requirements. This flexibility is central to a new “make to order” (MTO) production philosophy, a move away from the traditional “make to stock” model.

Recognizing the needs of growing breweries, a new 2.5 kg packaging format has also been introduced.

Fermentis’ unique patented piercing device, Percy™, enhances the Easy-To-Open technology of the new packaging [Photo: Fermentis]

The facility upgrades include new state-of-the-art machinery, advanced dry yeast transport and cleaning equipment, and innovative line cleaning systems. Quality control at the plant has also been bolstered by additional checks and an intelligent camera system to eliminate leaks, soft bags, or labelling errors.

The MTO capability is made possible by a fully automated intermediate temporary self-storage system, which integrates the entire production and packaging line.

Stéphane Meulemans, General Manager at Fermentis, commented on the project’s success, stating, “We are thrilled to see the results of another big investment in our future: a brand-new production line in one of our key factories of the Lesaffre Group. This new facility has allowed us to raise the quality of our yeast to new standards, unheard of in the industry.”

As a business unit of the Lesaffre Group, a global player in yeast applications for over 170 years, this project from Fermentis represents a significant step forward. It provides brewers with a more efficient, traceable, and reliable system for managing a critical ingredient, ensuring their yeast arrives ready for a flawless fermentation.