If you’ve spent any time walking through a health food store, researching cheese substitutes for vegan diets, or reading health articles, you’ve likely come across nutritional yeast.

This powerful powder is made from fermented strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is usually grown on sugar beets or molasses. Unlike brewer’s yeast, nutritional yeast is inactive as it is heat-processed, and therefore cannot be substituted in bread or beer recipes. Nevertheless, nutritional yeast has plenty going for it in terms of its nutritional qualities.

Nutritional yeast is a good source of fiber, and is a complete protein, meaning it has all of the essential amino acids in the required amounts to support the body. This makes it a good option for cancer patients to try to meet their protein needs.

it is an excellent source of the B vitamins thiamine, niacin, and riboflavin. Fortified nutritional yeast is an important source of B12 in the vegan diet, as B12 is usually only found in animal foods.  B12 is essential for healthy nerve functioning, and for the formation of blood cells. Make sure you look for the word “fortified” on the package if you are relying on nutritional yeast to meet your B12 needs.

It adds a wonderful savory flavor to dishes that are similar to Parmesan cheese, and completely gluten-free, making it safe to eat for anyone with celiac disease.

It’s also gluten-free, making it safe to eat for anyone with celiac disease.

How to use nutritional yeast?

You can substitute nutritional yeast for cheese in many places, however, it is best to start off with small amounts, as it can be an acquired taste that takes getting used to.

For example, try using it instead or parmesan in this Asian-style Pasta recipe or Sweet Potato Fries recipe. You can also sprinkle it into sauces for a flavor kick. For a boost of protein and vitamins, try stirring into Mashed Potatoes.