On our dinner tables, fermented pasta dishes such as steamed buns, steamed buns, and flower rolls have long become commonplace. Turning flour into a soft and delicious food is made possible by a partner, yeast. However, the myths about yeast on the internet are confusing: is it a magician who drives the deliciousness of food, or is it a killer with hidden health risks?
Today, let's demystify yeast and take a closer look at its role and influence in the modern diet through the lens of science.
Yeast, a single-celled eukaryotic microorganism, is an indispensable bio-leavening agent in food production.
Yeast is indispensable for the production of leavened foods, alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine, sauces and some specially processed teas.
With its help, food has undergone a qualitative leap, providing both a unique taste and a rich nutritional value.
1. The addition of yeast is conducive to the formation of protein structure chains in the dough.
2. During the dough fermentation process, the yeast will use the sugar in the dough and release alcohol and carbon dioxide, showing its fermentation effect.
3. During the mixing process, the dough will absorb some oxygen molecules, which makes the dough after mixing easier to stretch and shape, and its resistance is reduced. The fermentation activity of yeast strengthens the connections between gluten chains through oxidation, thereby increasing the tension of gluten.
4. Yeast produces a variety of volatile organic substances during its fermentation process, which contribute to the formation of the unique flavor profile of bread and other bakery products.
1.Causing stomach problems? That's a misunderstanding!
Will freshly steamed steamed buns cause stomach problems due to carbon dioxide? "This is a big misunderstanding of the role of yeast.
In fact, the carbon dioxide formed by yeast fermentation dissipates quickly under the action of high temperatures, and there is no conclusive evidence that this causes digestive problems.
Freshly baked bread and buns are less nutritious than the usual carbonated drinks.
2.Inducing gout? Don't be afraid, the risk is minimal!
Concerns about purine content have made many people shy away from yeast. It is true that the purine content of yeast is not low, but considering the dilution ratio when actually consumed, it is difficult to reach the risk level even if it is ingested by gout patients. Therefore, there is no problem with using yeast in moderation.
3.Carcinogenic Risk? Scientific research says "no"!
It is true that the Maillard reaction can produce carcinogens at high temperatures, but the yeast has long been inactivated in this process and will not produce related harmful substances. The term yeast and carcinogenesis is clearly a misunderstanding.
After talking about the harm, there is not the so-called "bad news" that exists, we should pay more attention to the benefits brought by yeast products:
1.Promotes digestion:Flour fermented by yeast is more easily absorbed and decomposed by gastric acid;
2.Cardiovascular umbrella:Rich in B vitamins and folic acid help lower homocysteine in the blood, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease;
3.Pressure buffer:Ingredients such as selenium-glutathione are effective in fighting stress and fatigue, and also aid in calcium absorption and nervous relaxation.
1. When buying yeast, you should choose products produced by regular brands and well-known manufacturers to ensure quality and safety.
2. When purchasing yeast and other common ingredients, it is recommended to buy small packaging products to avoid affecting the use effect due to large amounts or too long storage time.
3. From the perspective of health, when making steamed bread, the amount of yeast used and the dough kneading time can be appropriately reduced, and the dough fermentation time can be increased to make the dough products more compact.
This practice can help lower the GI of foods and make blood sugar rise more slowly, which is especially beneficial for people with high blood sugar and diabetes.
4. When storing powdered seasonings such as yeast and baking soda, it is necessary to pay attention to prevent moisture, direct sunlight and high temperature, ensure that they are tightly sealed, and ensure that they are all used up before the expiration date.
Yeast, as the "best cook", plays a huge role in the dietary life of human beings. Its existence is not only for deliciousness, but also for the health of human beings in silence.
Don't be afraid of unsubstantiated rumors, just choose and use them carefully based on scientific facts, so that this little kitchen helper can better serve your table and health.