Is it vegan? Ingredients

Is nutritional yeast vegan?

Vegan

Quick answer: Yes. Nutritional yeast is an inactivated yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) grown on plant sugars, and it is vegan; many brands are fortified with vitamin B12.

Also called: nooch, yeast flakes, inactive yeast, savoury yeast flakes

Why it’s vegan

Nutritional yeast is yeast that has been grown, heated to deactivate it, and dried into flakes or powder. It has a savoury, cheesy flavour and is used in sauces, on popcorn and in vegan cheeses.

The NHS lists yeast extract and nutritional yeast flakes fortified with B12 among foods that can help vegans get vitamin B12. Unfortified versions are not a reliable B12 source.

What to look for on the label

  • nutritional yeast, yeast flakes
  • fortified with vitamin B12 (check the label)

Where it’s found

  • Vegan cheese sauces
  • Seasonings and snacks

Frequently asked questions

Is nutritional yeast vegan?

Yes. Nutritional yeast is an inactivated yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) grown on plant sugars, and it is vegan; many brands are fortified with vitamin B12.

Sources

  1. The vegan diet — NHS
  2. What every vegan should know about vitamin B12 — The Vegan Society

Checked on 31 October 2026. Ingredients and recipes change, and the same product can differ between countries — always check the current label. This page is general information, not allergy or medical advice.

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