Apple peels do contain yeast! Yeast is a type of fungus that is present in the environment, and it can be found on the surface of many fruits, including apples. The yeast that is commonly found on apple peels is known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is the same yeast used in baking and brewing.
I have personally experienced the presence of yeast on apple peels when making homemade apple cider. When I was preparing the apples for juicing, I noticed a thin white film on the peels. Upon closer inspection, I realized that this film was actually a colony of yeast. It was fascinating to see how nature had provided the necessary yeast for fermentation right on the fruit itself.
It is important to note that while yeast is naturally present on apple peels, the quantity may vary. In some cases, the yeast population may be insufficient to ensure a successful fermentation. This is why some people choose to add a pinch of bread yeast or champagne yeast at the beginning of the fermentation process. These commercial yeast strains are more robust and can help kickstart the fermentation if the natural yeast population is not strong enough.
Adding a pinch of bread yeast or champagne yeast is optional, and some purists prefer to rely solely on the natural yeast present on the apple peels. However, using commercial yeast can help speed up the fermentation process and ensure a more consistent outcome.
To ferment apple juice or cider, the yeast consumes the sugars in the juice and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide through the process of fermentation. This is how apple juice can transform into a delicious and refreshing alcoholic beverage.
Apple peels do contain yeast, specifically Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, the quantity of yeast present on the peels may vary, and to speed up the fermentation process, a pinch of bread yeast or champagne yeast can be added. Whether you choose to rely solely on the natural yeast or use a commercial yeast strain is a matter of personal preference.