The Mycostart protocol is an innovative protocol developed by EVERINTEC for optimal yeast reactivation. Combining the Mycostart bioactivator (activation product) with a specific oxygenation regime results in improved cell vigour and a stronger cell membrane which, in turn, optimises yeast performance.
Background: Yeast respiration vs fermentation
To be able to better understand how the Mycostart protocol works, it is important to understand the ways that yeast generates energy:
- Yeasts break down organic molecules to synthesize adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is needed to generate energy. The energy stored in ATP can be released to perform cellular functions. Yeast breaks down organic molecules, such as glucose, through the common processes of cellular respiration and fermentation.
- Cellular respiration is generally described as an aerobic process (requiring oxygen) and results in fully oxidized glucose. Aerobic respiration can yield 32 ATP per molecule of glucose. Therefore, respiration is key to fuelling cellular activity. During cellular respiration (aerobic) the yeast converts sugar into carbon dioxide and water.
- Fermentation also produces ATP, however, unlike cellular respiration, which uses oxygen, fermentation occurs in an anaerobic or oxygen-depleted environment. Comparative to cellular respiration, fermentation releases less energy (yields only two net molecules of ATP per molecule of glucose) as the lack of oxygen means the sugar molecule does not fully oxidise in this process. During fermentation, the yeast converts sugar into carbon dioxide and alcohol.
How can Mycostart help with yeast reactivation?
The Mycostart protocol was developed by EVERINTEC and is focused on the optimal reactivation of dry inactive yeast preparations. The Mycostart protocol involves the addition of specific nutrients in combination with the strategic use of oxygen for the reactivation of the yeast.
The idea is to induce aerobic respiration which will allow the yeast to produce more energy which will optimise the growth rate of the yeast. This reactivation will also activate the metabolism to produce sterols, fatty acids and amino acids which are important cell membrane components. The yeast is therefore conditioned and equipped with the necessary energy and support for optimal functioning in preparation for the all-important fermentation process which will follow.
When do you apply the Mycostart protocol?
Mycostart has been specifically designed to be used following the rehydration step and forms part of a specific protocol.
What is the composition of the Mycostart bioactivator?
The Mycostart bioactivator consists of selected yeast cell wall preparation, cellulose and diammonium phosphate (DAP). Mycostart is a source of nitrogen, phosphorus, vitamins and microelements.
What is the recommended dosage of the Mycostart bioactivator?
The recommended dosage of the Mycostart bioactivator is 200 grams per kilogram of active dry yeast.
How does the Mycostart protocol affect my yeast nutrition strategy?
The Mycostart protocol does not change the nutritional fermentation strategy.
The Mycostart protocol in short:
- Fill a bucket with the correct amount of warm water
– 20 liter of water per kilogram of active dry yeast
– The water temperature should be between 35°C and 40°C - Place the mixing and oxygenating device (VinO2 with ‘Mycostarter’) into the bucket and slowly disperse the active dry yeast onto the surface of the water
– VinO2 is a device which has been designed specifically to fulfil the functions of a micro/macro-oxygenator
– ‘Micostarter’ is a support device used in combination with the VinO2 to aid the mixing and oxygenation
- Wait for five minutes before starting the oxygenating process to allow the yeast to rehydrate
- Start the first cycle (oxygenating and mixing) and allow to proceed for 30 minutes
- Add the Mycostart bioactivator and sugar source (juice)
– Ensure that there are no lumps on the surface before adding - Select “Continue cycle” on the VinO2 device to initiate aerobic respiration and energy generation
– The cycles alternate mixing and oxygenation - At the end of the cycle the yeast is ready to be added to the tank
– Make sure that the temperature difference between the yeast mixture and the tank is less than 10°
