Originally Posted by VandalSquirrel (Post 2048676)

Depended on whether one was near a brewery, lots of yeast at a brewery. Baker's and brewer's yeast are a different species than the yeast used for sourdough.

I think yeast availability, as well as affording dishware is one reason why there is some kind of flat bread or cracker all over the world. Think about it, tortillas, naan, pita, lefse, tortas, matzoh, lavash, hardtack, crackers, all unleavened bread items and all kinds of tasty, plus great for putting other food on when one doesn't have dishes or utensils.

Originally Posted by AlphaFrog (Post 2048337)

Yes! This! My mom was really into this when I was in grade school and would have multiple batches going. Since you never fully use up the starter, there could be specks of flour and drops of milk that are YEARS old. Ohmamajammacreepywilliesahhh.