Ingredient

Fresh Yeast

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Fresh yeast is a leavening agent, meaning it produces carbon dioxide gas during fermentation. …

What it is

Fresh yeast, also known as cake yeast, is a living microorganism, specifically a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is grown in a nutrient-rich liquid medium and then pressed into a moist, soft cake. This form is highly active and perishable.

Why it's used

Fresh yeast is a leavening agent, meaning it produces carbon dioxide gas during fermentation. This gas causes doughs to rise, giving baked goods like bread, pizza, and pastries their characteristic light and airy texture. It is often used by bakers who prefer its rapid action and distinct flavor profile.

Health notes

Fresh yeast is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of B vitamins and protein. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated yeast and its components. It is not typically associated with adverse health effects when consumed in amounts found in food.

Allergen info

Fresh yeast is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Fresh Yeast

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FOOD FOR LIFE English Muffins Flourless Sprouted Whole Grain, English Muffins Breads & Buns 211kcal 10.5Protein 1.3Fat 39.5Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Hand-Crafted Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 243kcal 10.5Protein 13.2Fat 19.7Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Quattro Carne Hand Crafted Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 33% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 257kcal 10.8Protein 13.5Fat 21.6Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Hand-Crafted Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 262kcal 9.8Protein 13.1Fat 25.4Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Classic Cheese Duo Hand Crafted Pizza Pizza High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 254kcal 9.3Protein 11.9Fat 26.3Carbs Dextro Corporation Roasted Vegan Pizza, Roasted Vegan Pizza 154kcal 4.5Protein 3.9Fat 25.6Carbs Chiu Hop Company Everything Sandwich Rolls Breads & Buns High in sodium — 24% DV per serving 256kcal 10.3Protein 1.9Fat 50Carbs Brittany Records Greek Calzone Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 22% DV per serving 242kcal 7.1Protein 11.1Fat 28.3Carbs 18th Street Deli Inc. Philly Cheese Steak Roast Beef & Sharp Swiss Cheese With Onions And Green Peppers, Philly Cheese Steak Prepared Subs & Sandwiches High in sodium — 43% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 185kcal 12.6Protein 5.9Fat 20Carbs Doreen's Pizza, Inc. Italian Sausage Gourmet Pizza, Italian Sausage Pizza High in sodium — 35% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 200kcal 8.9Protein 8.9Fat 22.2Carbs Doreen's Pizza, Inc. Gourmet Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza High in sodium — 36% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 208kcal 8.5Protein 9.2Fat 22.3Carbs Doreen's Pizza, Inc. Gourmet Veggie Pizza Pizza High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 177kcal 6.9Protein 6.9Fat 23.1Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.