Here's a question, and probably a problem. Been working on my own starter but there is one parameter I failed to consider, and that is an air purifier. Logically the science is the flour/water mix is supposed to attract the proper microorganisms to settle and feed and multiple, or rather yeast and lactobacillus form a self-sustaining, symbiotic relationship. Given this, am I correct to assume the air purifier may in fact be nabbing the very microorganisms I am looking to attract? I live in a medium-sized apartment so there is little chance I could isolate the two. Also I know the starch from potatoes (and the the water they are cooked in) tend to have a knack for giving yeast ideal food to eat. Could one add either such water or even potato flakes or flour to a starter or would that simple "over-feed" the yeast and they would become sluggish and not up to the task of leavening bread? Great questions! It is possible for an air purifier to limit the amount of yeast available to a starter; purifiers with UV lights often kill most yeast (and bacteria and mold). As such, it is strongly possible that you will struggle to begin a starter in your home: however, you could likely use air from outside to help get things going. Once the yeast are cultivated, it's a matter of keeping them alive (with proper feedings). As a rule, yeast love the nutrients in whole wheat or rye flours--potato flour may as well, but I am most familiar with wheat and rye. You are welcome to use 50% of either flour when you feed the starter to encourage the yeast to grow. Finally, to get a starter going, you can certainly place the bowl of water and flour outside for an hour initially and then see if that "traps" any yeast cultures. Otherwise, you are welcome to persist in your home, it just might take a little longer! Best, Kim@KAF

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