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The Best Nutritional Yeast

Last updated on March 1, 2023

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Our Picks For The Top Nutritional Yeasts

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Top Pick

Bragg Dairy-Free Vegan Nutritional Yeast, 2-Pack

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Bragg

Dairy-Free Vegan Nutritional Yeast, 2-Pack

This pack of two 4.5-ounce bottles of nutritional yeast is the perfect addition to your pantry. It has a delicious cheesy flavor without any dairy, making it a great option for vegans or those with a lactose intolerance.

Overall Take

Organic and TastyYou'll love this cheesy topping from trusted spice and condiment brand Bragg.

 Runner Up

Sari Foods Company Non-Fortified Whole Food Nutritional Yeast

Sari Foods Company

Non-Fortified Whole Food Nutritional Yeast

This self-proclaimed ancient Egyptian superfood packs a healthy punch. It is non-fortified, and it contains no gluten or dairy. This nutritional yeast has plenty of B vitamins, protein and fiber.

Overall Take

No MSG or GMOsBoost your favorite meals and snacks without cheese, but still enjoy that same delicious flavor.

 We Also Like

Hoosier Hill Farm Non-GMO Large Flakes Nutritional Yeast

Hoosier Hill Farm

Non-GMO Large Flakes Nutritional Yeast

This one-pound container of large nutritional yeast flakes will help you through many delicious meals. It's the perfect complement to popcorn, macaroni and cheese and more.

Overall Take

Boost Your MealsAdd fiber and protein, plus a yummy flavor, to your favorite recipes with nutritional yeast.

 Strong Contender

Medley Hills Farm Fortified Vegetarian Nutritional Yeast

Medley Hills Farm

Fortified Vegetarian Nutritional Yeast

You're going to enjoy your meals more than ever when you enhance them with this fortified vegetarian nutritional yeast. It has lots of niacin, plus fiber and plenty of vitamins, like B12.

Overall Take

Love Your FoodThis zip-top bag of nutritional yeast holds a full pound of your favorite topping, so you won't run out anytime soon.

Buying Guide

Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that has been specially grown for its nutritional benefits. It has a nutty, cheesy and creamy flavor that adds a unique taste to dishes. Nutritional yeast is packed with B-vitamins as well as amino acids and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium. It also contains powerful antioxidants, like glutathione and trehalose, which can help protect the body from oxidative damage.

Nutritional yeast is often used as a plant-based substitute for cheese in dishes such as vegan mac and cheese or sprinkled on top of popcorn. It also makes an excellent addition to sauces, dressings and gravies to add extra flavor and nutrition. It can also be used as a topping on soups, salads and casseroles for extra flavor.

When using nutritional yeast, it’s important to remember that it does not create the same texture as dairy-based cheese. Nutritional yeast is usually sold in powder or flake form. If you are looking for a creamier texture, you can try blending it with some vegan butter or yogurt to make a creamy sauce. It’s also important to note that nutritional yeast is not a good substitute for baking purposes as it won’t rise like regular yeast.

Overall, nutritional yeast is an excellent addition to any plant-based diet and adds flavor and nutrition to many dishes.

Be sure to store nutritional yeast in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to six months. For a cheesy flavor, try adding nutritional yeast to sauces and casseroles. When making vegan mac and cheese, add some nutritional yeast for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle nutritional yeast on top of popcorn for a delicious snack.

What to Look For

  • When using nutritional yeast, start slowly. Try adding just a teaspoon at first and gradually increase the amount as you get used to the taste.
  • You can mix nutritional yeast with other spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika or chili powder to create unique flavor combinations.
  • Want even more ways to use nutritional yeast? Try adding it to salads and dressings for extra flavor, or include it in vegan cheese sauces and gravies.
  • Nutritional yeast is also great as a topping on soups, pizza or sandwiches.

More to Explore

Nutritional yeast was not always used as a flavor enhancer and food supplement. Its inclusion grew in popularity during the 20th century, due in large part to strategic marketing initiatives that framed the yeast as a health food.

Today, it is popular for those with nutrition preferences and food allergies, thanks to its versatility as a flavorful, healthy addition.

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