johnnyboy1965
Landlord.
Dried yeast is coated with a water dissolavable (sp) substance that enables it to be kept for longer periods. This is why it doesnt come vac-packed. When you re-hydrate the dried yeast in water, it breaks down this outer shell. releasing the viable yeast cells. IIRC the coating is made of a sugar, that is why when you add water it will start to "prove" in a very short time.
