Unlock the Benefits of Nutritional Yeast: A Natural Source of B Vitamins

What is Nutritional Yeast?

Nutritional yeast is the deactivated form of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is grown on a nutrient-rich medium such as molasses or sugar cane and then harvested, washed, and dried. Nutritional yeast provides numerous health benefits as it is a rich source of protein, dietary fibre, B vitamins, and minerals. This makes it a popular choice as a nutritional supplement or as a condiment in cooking. With its cheesy, nutty, and slightly savoury flavour, nutritional yeast is often used as a vegan substitute for cheese.

Spread it on salads, pasta, and risotto, and even use it in a pesto sauce instead of parmesan. For example, check out this tasty pesto recipe.

Although Nutritional Yeast belongs to the same species as Baker’s and Brewer’s Yeast, it is distinct from other forms of this yeast:

Baker’s Yeast

This type of yeast is used to ferment bread and adds an earthy, yeasty taste to the dough. However, the yeast is destroyed during cooking.

Brewer’s Yeast

Brewer’s Yeast is commonly used in brewing beer. After brewing, the dead yeast cells are left behind and can be consumed as a nutritional supplement. However, they have a bitter taste. Brewer’s Yeast can also be purchased in an active form for use in brewing.

Nutritional Yeast

This type of yeast is grown specifically for use as a food product. The yeast cells are destroyed during manufacturing and are not alive in the final product. Nutritional Yeast has a cheesy, nutty flavour and is used in cooking. To produce it, Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells are grown on a sugar-rich medium like molasses for several days. The yeast is then deactivated with heat, collected, washed, dried, crumbled, and packaged. If you’re allergic or sensitive to yeast, this is likewise a no-go. However, this inactive form of yeast does not contribute to candida yeast infections.

The Flavour of Nutritional Yeast

The distinctive flavor profile of nutritional yeast largely attributes to the abundance of naturally occurring glutamate. This amino acid interacts with specific taste cells in the tongue, unleashing an umami taste that resembles the flavour of Parmesan cheese.

Health Benefits of Nutritional Yeast

Protein

There are 4 grams of protein in a two-tablespoon portion. Nutritional yeast is a plant-based protein source. It presents a full range of essential amino acids, supporting bodily tissues’ construction, including muscle.

B vitamins

Most brands contain a whole range of B vitamins, including thiamine, niacin, and B6, to support a healthy metabolism. These nutrients are typically added during processing. 

Vitamin B12

Nutritional yeast’s notable benefit- is that it’s also often very high in vitamin B12, an essential nutrient typically found in meat, eggs, and dairy. Vitamin B12 is necessary for producing red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system. However, to provide this benefit, Nutritional Yeast must be fortified with B12 (like other plant foods). It doesn’t contain it naturally. 

Minerals

Besides protein and B vitamins, nutritional yeast offers a bit of iron, potassium, and a unique type of fibre called beta-glucan, which has cholesterol-lowering properties. In addition, nutritional yeast is a low-glycemic food containing chromium, a mineral that may help regulate your blood sugar.

How to Use Nutritional Yeast?

Nutritional yeast comes in either powder or flake form, making it easy to sprinkle on just about anything. So you can dust over your meals and enjoy.

Why Should Nutritional Yeast Be in Your Diet?

Nutritional yeast is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can add a cheesy flavour to any dish. Whether you’re a vegan looking for a plant-based source of protein and B vitamins or simply looking to switch up your meals, nutritional yeast is a great choice. Its unique form, flavour, and health benefits make it a must-try for anyone interested in healthy and delicious cooking. So why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about? Your taste buds and your body will thank you!