nutritional yeast

noun

plural nutritional yeasts

: a deactivated yeast (such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae) used in powdered or flake form as a flavoring or condiment

Nutritional yeast is not a byproduct; it's grown specifically for dietary supplement use and has a better taste and nutritional profile than brewer's yeast (some brands are good sources of B-12). Its pleasant nutty-cheesy flavor makes it appealing to vegetarians—as a topping for popcorn, for example.

—Andrew Weil

Examples of nutritional yeast in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In this viral Chicken Soup Salad, the nutritional yeast lends subtle cheesy quality, and the aromatic veggie blend and herbs help this creamy chicken salad taste surprisingly similar to the comfort food soup that inspired it. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Dec. 2025

In addition to fresh basil, olive oil, almonds, and garlic, her pesto was spiked with nutritional yeast and lemon juice. —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 8 Dec. 2025

For extra flavor, sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or nutritional yeast before baking. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 1 Dec. 2025

Add the salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, garlic, and herbs, stirring gently. —CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nutritional yeast

• beast
• ceased
• creased
• east
• feast
• fleeced
• geest
• greased
• leased
• least
• pieced
• priest