Why Nutritional Yeast Is a Game-Changer for Vegans (and Everyone!)

Ready to go full yeast mode? If you haven’t met nutritional yeast yet, your taste buds—and your body—are in for a treat. This golden, flaky superfood isn’t just a vegan’s secret weapon for a compassionate cheesy kick—it’s also packed with health-enhancing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. If you’re looking to upgrade your vegan meals with some extra seasoning and a nutrient-dense boost, nutritional yeast brings the flavor and the function.

Let’s break down all the top benefits of nutritional yeast and why it deserves a permanent spot in your pantry.

What Exactly Is Nutritional Yeast?

Fondly called “nooch” for short, nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast commonly used as an ingredient in creamy, dairy-free cheese substitutes and as a topper for foods like popcorn, pasta, and French fries. Available in flakes, granules, or powder, nutritional yeast has a naturally cheesy, nutty flavor that makes it the ultimate go-to seasoning.

Is Nutritional Yeast Vegan?

Yes! Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and gluten-free. Though nooch is known for its cheesy flavor, yeast isn’t derived from exploited cows’ stolen milk—it’s a member of the fungus kingdom. Think of it like an adorable, tiny mushroom.

Cheese made from cow’s milk, on the other hand, is a product of the cruel dairy industry, where workers forcibly manually impregnate cows and tear their precious calves from them just a day after birth.

What Does Nutritional Yeast Do?

What doesn’t it do? Nutritional yeast delivers a savory punch, adds texture, and can thicken soups and sauces. Basically, it’s like magic vegan fairy dust, providing satisfaction and sustenance in one golden sprinkle.

Is Nutritional Yeast Good for You?

Nooch boosts some impressive health stats. A “complete protein,” nutritional yeast provides all nine of the essential amino acids that your body can’t make on its own. It’s also commonly fortified with vitamin B₁₂. A typical serving (just 2 tablespoons) contains 9 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. The best part? You’ll totally be using way more than 2 tablespoons.

These essential nutrients may help power your metabolism, energy levels, brain function, and immune system. Say hello to better health!

What Can You Add Nutritional Yeast To?

The options are endless! Nutritional yeast isn’t just a vegan mac-and-cheese lover’s best friend. You can sprinkle it on crunchy snacks, mix it into a tofu scramble, stir it into your favorite soup, and toss it into a salad. If you’re looking for ideas, we’ve got pages upon pages of noochy recipes.

Does Nutritional Yeast Go Bad?

Nutritional yeast has a long shelf life and will generally stay at its best for up to two years when stored properly. It can go bad after a while, but let’s be real, it probably won’t last that long in your pantry because you’ll be using it constantly.

That said, if you’ve forgotten about a jar in the back of the cupboard, here’s how to tell if it’s past its prime: the flavor will be dull or bitter instead of savory and nutty, the color might fade from its usual bright golden yellow, and it may smell a bit off or stale. If it’s clumpy or feels damp, that’s a red flag too—nutritional yeast should be dry and flaky. Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot, and it’ll stay delicious for months.

How Is Nutritional Yeast Made?

Nutritional yeast is made from a type of yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It’s grown on a sugary base like molasses, then heated to stop it from growing—so it won’t rise like baking yeast. After that, it’s washed, dried, and turned into the golden flakes or powder you sprinkle on food.

Ready to Add Nooch to Your Nosh? That’s the Yeast You Can Do!

Every animal is someone, from cows who form lifelong friendships, to hens who teach calls to their chicks before they even hatch. No one wants to be exploited for food.

If you’re feeling inspired by all the benefits of nutritional yeast, we’re here to help you dive into the world of awesome vegan life hacks. Order PETA’s free vegan starter kit, which is packed full of recipes, tips on making the compassionate switch, and more.

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