Viability
Viability is a key term in brewing that refers to how healthy and active yeast cells are. Think of it as a measure of the yeast's ability to do its job in making beer. When brewers talk about viability, they're discussing whether the yeast is capable of properly fermenting the beer and creating the right flavors. It's similar to checking if a sourdough starter is active enough to make bread rise. The term is often paired with "cell count" or "yeast health" in brewing job descriptions. Understanding viability is crucial because using unhealthy yeast can result in failed batches or off-flavors in the final product.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained Viability rates above 95% in house yeast strains through proper handling and storage procedures
Developed new protocols that improved yeast Viability and fermentation consistency
Conducted daily Viability tests to ensure optimal yeast performance
Typical job title: "Brewing Scientists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Brewing Scientists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a yeast management program to maintain optimal viability?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain their experience in creating and managing yeast programs, including storage procedures, testing schedules, and staff training. They should discuss how they would track trends and make improvements based on data.
Q: What steps would you take if you noticed a declining trend in yeast viability?
Expected Answer: The answer should cover systematic problem-solving approaches, including checking storage conditions, examining handling procedures, reviewing cleaning protocols, and implementing corrective actions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors affect yeast viability during storage?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention temperature control, oxygen exposure, storage time, and handling procedures. They should understand how these factors impact yeast health.
Q: How do you measure viability and what tools do you use?
Expected Answer: Should describe common measurement methods like methylene blue staining or similar techniques, and demonstrate understanding of when and how to perform these tests.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Why is yeast viability important in brewing?
Expected Answer: Should explain that healthy yeast is essential for proper fermentation and how poor viability can affect beer quality and consistency.
Q: What's the minimum acceptable viability percentage for pitching yeast?
Expected Answer: Should know the basic industry standards for viable yeast (typically 85-95%) and understand why these standards exist.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic yeast handling procedures
- Simple viability testing methods
- Understanding of safe laboratory practices
- Basic brewing process knowledge
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced testing techniques
- Data analysis and trending
- Yeast management procedures
- Quality control documentation
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and optimization
- Staff training and supervision
- Troubleshooting complex issues
- Quality system management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on laboratory experience
- Unfamiliarity with basic testing methods
- Poor understanding of sanitation importance
- Lack of attention to detail in documentation
Related Terms
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