I never recommended any "she'll be right method". Merely discussed the options available to the brewer.
Pointing out that rehydration is not the only way to produce a malt drink with alcohol content.
I'm very happy with the results of pitching one dry pack directly into wort (attentuation, lag time, flavour etc).
My mates who brew, in general, don't take many precautions and end up with beers which they enjoy making and drinking.
I use more refined methods and don't employ a 'holier than thou' attitude when hearing their ideas and experiences.
Your correct about the yeast manufacturers having performed alot of research on these type of issues but when the producer themselves have conflicting information, one can hardly dismiss the need for a discussion.
Website says to rehydrate as you stated but the packets of Fermentis yeast I have been purchasing state to pitch directly into wort.
We all make beer, whether you like it or not people will make it differently than you.
If you don't want to hear about how others make their beer, wrong forum?
But I guess I'm just an extract brewing newbie, so disregard anything I say...oops, it looks like you already have.
The "she'll be right method" doesn't work for me.
The yeast manufacturer has done more research on their product than we ever will and to 'use the method my mate uses' is daft. You can quote me on 'daft' too, if you like.
tdh