Ingredient

Instant Yeast Yeast

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

What it is

Instant yeast is a dried form of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a single-celled fungus. It is produced by growing yeast in a nutrient-rich liquid medium, then harvesting, drying, and often adding emulsifiers to help it mix with flour. It is used to make bread and other baked goods rise.

Why it's used

Instant yeast is a leavening agent, meaning it produces carbon dioxide gas during fermentation, which causes dough to rise and become light and airy. It is commonly found in bread mixes, pizza dough, and other baked goods where a quick rise is desired.

Health notes

Instant 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 and EFSA have evaluated yeast and its components. It is not associated with significant health concerns when consumed in typical amounts found in food.

Allergen info

Yeast is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Instant Yeast Yeast

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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.