Ingredient

Inactivated Yeast

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use inactivated yeast for its savory, umami flavor, often described as cheesy or …

What it is

Inactivated yeast, also known as deactivated yeast, is yeast that has been killed, typically by heat or drying. It is derived from strains of *Saccharomyces cerevisiae*, the same yeast used in baking and brewing. The inactivation process stops the yeast from fermenting or growing.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use inactivated yeast for its savory, umami flavor, often described as cheesy or meaty. It acts as a flavor enhancer and can also contribute to a richer texture in foods. It is commonly found in baked goods, snacks, sauces, and vegetarian meat alternatives.

Health notes

In the U.S., inactivated yeast is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a source of B vitamins and protein. International bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated yeast extracts, and JECFA has also evaluated yeast and yeast products. At typical consumption levels, it is considered safe.

Allergen info

Inactivated yeast is not derived from one of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Inactivated Yeast

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Panamerican Food LLC Latin Baguette Breads & Buns 300kcal 10Protein 4Fat 54Carbs Glencourt Inc. Open Nature, Pita Chips With Garden Herbs Other Snacks 464kcal 14.3Protein 17.9Fat 64.3Carbs The Hillshire Brands Company Tuscan Flair Small Plates Lunch Snacks & Combinations High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 321kcal 20.5Protein 17.9Fat 19.2Carbs Hy-Vee, Inc. Garden Veggie Wheat Pita Chips Other Snacks 464kcal 14.3Protein 12.5Fat 67.9Carbs Multigrain Garden Vegetable Pita Chips, Multigrain Garden Vegetable Glencourt Inc. Multigrain Garden Vegetable Pita Chips, Multigrain Garden Vegetable Other Snacks 429kcal 14.3Protein 12.5Fat 67.9Carbs Spicy Beyond Breakfast Sausage Plant-Based Patties, Spicy Beyond Meat, Inc. Spicy Beyond Breakfast Sausage Plant-Based Patties, Spicy Other Meats High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 310kcal 19.0Protein 20.7Fat 10.3Carbs Classic Beyond Breakfast Sausage Plant-Based Patties, Classic Beyond Meat, Inc. Classic Beyond Breakfast Sausage Plant-Based Patties, Classic Other Meats High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 310kcal 19.0Protein 20.7Fat 10.3Carbs Wholesome Harvest Baking, LLC Crusty White Baguette Breads & Buns High in sodium — 20% DV per serving 217kcal 10Protein 0.8Fat 55Carbs Connie's Pizza Inc. Cheese Handmade Chicago- Style Pan Pizza, Cheese Pizza High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 239kcal 11.0Protein 9.2Fat 30.3Carbs Calise & Sons Bakery Inc. Brioche Style Bulkie Rolls Breads & Buns 311kcal 9.8Protein 4.9Fat 55.7Carbs Calise & Sons Bakery Inc. Brioche Style Hamburger Rolls Breads & Buns 317kcal 10Protein 5Fat 56.7Carbs Calise & Sons Bakery Inc. Brioche Style Hamburger Rolls Breads & Buns 320kcal 10Protein 5Fat 56Carbs
Salt (17 products) Niacin (13 products) Riboflavin (13 products) Folic Acid (13 products) Water (13 products) Yeast (13 products) Sugar (13 products) Thiamine Mononitrate (12 products) Wheat Flour (11 products) Reduced Iron (11 products)

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.