Nutritional yeast is an inactive yeast. It is mustard-yellow in appearance and has a dry, powdery texture. It is usually found in flake form, but can also be found in powder form. Nutritional yeast can be found in many health food stores and is generally located in the bulk section of the store. Brewer’s yeast is generally found next to the nutritional yeast and is completely different, so make sure you are buying the right one.
Nutritional yeast may be Vitamin B12 fortified, making it very common in vegetarian and vegan diets. High levels of Vitamin B12 can be found in beef, lamb, liver, cheese, eggs, shellfish, and other sea animals including some fish, so for those who do not consume animal products, nutritional yeast that is fortified with Vitamin B12 is very important.
Nutritional yeast has a robust flavor similar to that of cheese, and is used as a cheese substitute in many vegan and vegetarian dishes. Nutritional yeast also is commonly the main ingredient in cheese alternative recipes. It can be sprinkled over food by itself or it can be an added ingredient in many sauces and recipes.
There is so much important information available for those who are using nutritional yeast about getting your daily intake of Vitamin B12. The best resource that I can guide you to is Sassy from VeganCoach.com. She has explained everything you need to know and understand about nutritional yeast in a section on her website. It is lengthy, but well worth the time to check out. She also has great advice and ideas about eating vegan. I’ve referred to her website for ideas many times over the years.
