Scientists make sourdough bread using yeast found in 5,000-year-old mummy Scientists have successfully baked sourdough bread using yeast strains extracted from the 5,000-year-old mummy of Ötzi the Iceman. The yeast, believed to have entered Ötzi’s body after death and thrive in cold conditions, produced a normally rising dough within 24 hours. Researchers are now exploring the possibility of using these ancient yeast strains to brew beer, a project they have discussed with brewing experts.

• Scientists used yeast harvested from Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,000-year-old mummy.
• The yeast was used to bake a sourdough loaf, which rose normally within 24 hours.
• Researchers plan to investigate using the ancient yeast strains for brewing beer.
• The yeast is thought to have entered Ötzi’s body after his death and lives in cold conditions.