First of all, nutritional yeast is not brewer’s yeast, even though both have health benefits. The first is considered a superfood, without ingredients of animal origin, gluten-free, rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins; the second is made from wheat, malt, and barley, so it is gluten-free and has fewer nutrients than nutritional yeast.
Nutritional yeast benefits
The structure, consistency and taste are also different. Brewer’s yeast is a by-product of beer fermentation. That is to say, its structure is very different. It also has vitamins and minerals, but nutritionally speaking, nutritional yeast is much better. Besides the nutrients, it has the flavor that is much tastier; remember the cheese and make the recipes very tasty.
Nutritional yeast is a “deactivated yeast”, which is often sold as food. It is yellow in color and has a cheesy flavor. You’ll usually find nutritional yeast in the form of flakes or a yellow powder.
Vegans and vegetarians love to use nutritional yeast as an ingredient in recipes or as a spice. It tastes similar after adding cheese to any meal. Usually people like to sprinkle on popcorn, garlic bread, or pasta sauce. Not only does it taste good, but it is also a rich source of some essential vitamins and proteins that are good for our health.
This food comes from a bacterium of the genus Saccharomyces. The base can be beet and cane molasses. This maintains nutritional integrity during fermentation. That is why nutritional yeast is very rich in protein, B vitamins and some minerals, especially iron, zinc, magnesium, chromium, phosphorus and copper. In addition, some brands enrich the formula with B12 and fibers.
Nutritional yeast is similar to the yeast that people use for baking, but undergoes a heating and drying process that renders it inactive.
The nutritional yeast is generally free of dairy and gluten. As a result, it can be a useful supplement for people with food allergies or sensitivities, as well as those on restricted diets. It is also low in fat and does not contain sugar or soy.
Properties of nutritional yeast
Nutritional yeast contains 70 calories, 14 grams of protein, and more than 7 grams of fiber in one ounce. One serving of nutritional yeast provides a full spectrum of vitamins, proteins, amino acids, biotin, folate, and minerals such as zinc, selenium, iron, phosphorus, chromium, and magnesium. There is no other vegetarian source that is so rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, all essential for good health.
One tablespoon of nutritional yeast provides the entire RDA of vitamin B12. It is rich in protein (two tablespoons contain more protein than a cup of whole cow’s milk) and fiber, ensuring good intestinal health.
It can be seasoned in popcorn, baked potatoes or mashed potatoes, pasta, vegetable milks, green juices or smoothies, in sauces, soups or salads; this, because it is considered a fairly practical food.
This food is ideal for people who perform physical activities or daily workouts.