Autolyzed Yeast Extract

Autolyzed yeast extract is a flavor enhancer made from yeast. It is produced by breaking down yeast cells using their own enzymes, a process called autolysis, which releases amino acids, peptides, and nucleotides.

It is primarily used to add a savory, umami flavor to foods, similar to monosodium glutamate (MSG). Manufacturers add it to enhance the taste of soups, sauces, snacks, processed meats, and various savory seasonings.

Autolyzed yeast extract is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It naturally contains glutamates, which provide its umami taste, and some individuals may associate it with sensitivities reported for MSG, though scientific evidence for these sensitivities is mixed. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated yeast extracts and concluded they are not a safety concern. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also assessed yeast extracts and found no safety concerns at typical use levels.