Brewer's Yeast
Image: Tony Webster · CC BY 2.0
A cheesy, nutty-tasting nutritional supplement obtained as a byproduct of beer production or from specially grown yeast that is deactivated and processed into flakes or powder. Different from the active yeast used in bread-making.
What Is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is a nutritional supplement ingredient obtained by deactivating Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast and processing it into flakes or powder. It is also known as "brewer's yeast" in some contexts, and is usually specially grown and heat-deactivated.
Its main difference from the fresh or dry yeast used in bread-making is that it is not alive; it has no leavening ability, but instead offers a cheesy-nutty flavor and a rich B-vitamin profile.
Nutritional Value of Nutritional Yeast
100 grams of nutritional yeast contains around 325 kcal of energy; it has a very high protein ratio and is usually rich in B vitamins. Values vary by brand and are approximate.
How Should Nutritional Yeast Be Consumed?
Nutritional yeast is consumed in moderate amounts, sprinkled on dishes or added to sauces, as part of a balanced diet.
This information is general; nutritional yeast is a nutritional supplement ingredient, not a substitute for medical treatment. People with a yeast allergy are advised to be cautious.
How to Choose Nutritional Yeast?
Good nutritional yeast is yellow in color, has a slightly cheesy-nutty scent, and is labeled "deactivated/nutritional yeast."
- Its label should say "deactivated/nutritional yeast"
- Should be yellow in color, homogeneous in flake or powder form
- Should have a slightly cheesy-nutty scent, not moldy
How to Store Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast can be stored for months in a closed container in a cool, dry cupboard; keeping it free of moisture prevents clumping.
Using Nutritional Yeast in the Kitchen
Nutritional yeast is used most in vegan cheese sauce, sprinkled over popcorn, and as an umami-cheesy flavor addition in soups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can nutritional yeast be used instead of baker's yeast?
No; nutritional yeast is deactivated and does not leaven dough. Fresh yeast or dry yeast must be used for bread-making.
Is nutritional yeast vegan?
Yes, it is a fully plant-derived product.
Is nutritional yeast available in Turkey?
It can be found at shops selling vegan products and dietary supplements, and in some large supermarkets.