Everything You Need to Know About Nutritional Yeast

History

Nutritional yeast is an active yeast grown from sugarcane and beet molasses. In the scientific form, it is known as saccharomyces cerevisiae, or “sugar-eating fungus”, as the yeast cells use sugar for energy. Nutritional yeast flakes differ from beer and brewer’s yeast because after being grown, the yeast is treated to deactivate it so it cannot continue to ferment. The special appeal of nutritional yeast is its high savoury/cheesy flavour profile that provides a parmesan-like taste and aroma in vegan and vegetarian dishes. It works as the ideal replacement to cheese, just a sprinkle adding a flavour-packed punch.

Health Benefits

Not only does nutritional yeast taste amazingly cheesy and savoury, it is also a complete source of protein and vitamins, in particular B-complex vitamins which can be hard to obtain in vegan and vegetarian diets. It contains folates, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, selenium and zinc, making it a great superfood! It’s even a great source of vitamins B6 and B12, however, because yeast cannot produce B12, if it is listed on the label that means it has been fortified with it so keep an eye out for this! Nutritional yeast is low in sodium and fat, gluten-free and doesn’t contain any added sugars or preservatives.

Fun Facts

• While in the same scientific family, nutritional yeast is far superior to brewer’s yeast and is much higher in B-complex vitamins than wheat germ and many other natural food products.

• A serving of nutritional yeast can provide nine whole grams of protein!

• Yeast is part of a healthy mix of bacteria in your gut. It can help you absorb vitamins and minerals from your food.

• You can freeze nutritional yeast in sealed containers where it will keep for up to two years.

Recipes

Quinoa Chickpea Burger Patties – Whether you’re looking for a crowd pleasing recipe or a quick midweek dinner, these are sure to tick all the boxes.

Basil Pesto Pasta – Easy midweek dinner, meal prep for lunches, feeding a crowd or nourishing the soul.

Vegan Nut Cheeses – These three completely plant-based cheese recipes are a tasty addition to a party platter.

Walnut & Black Bean Meatballs – A humble meal makeover of a classic hearty dish of spaghetti and meatballs.

Man ‘n’ Cheeze – This healthy twist on a comfort classic is the perfect weekday meal for the whole family.