Nutritional yeast is the cheesy-tasting cousin to brewer’s and baker’s yeast that has gained popularity in recent years alongside the rising interest in plant-based diets.
Nutritional yeast is rich in nutrients often lacking from vegetarian and vegan diets. It’s also free of gluten, soy, and sugar, making it a great dietary addition for people with food sensitivities. However, research shows that its nutritional content can benefit any diet.
These golden flakes are made with yeast similar to the strain used in brewing and baking, but it’s deactivated in the final product. While nutritional yeast is rich in nutrients on its own, most varieties sold today are fortified with even more vitamins. You can find it at health stores and most supermarkets.
Due to its cheesy, nutty flavor, nutritional yeast can be added to just about all your meals and snacks for extra protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.