Torula yeast
What is Torula yeast?
Torula yeast, also known as Candia utilis or nutritional yeast, is a species of yeast that grows on sugar-rich substrates like molasses or wood pulp. It is cultivated and then dried and processed into a powder or flakes.
Is Torula yeast vegan?
Torula yeast is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Torula yeast gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Torula yeast a major allergen?
Torula yeast is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Torula yeast used for?
Manufacturers use torula yeast primarily as a flavour enhancer, providing a savoury, umami taste similar to that of meat or cheese.
Is Torula yeast safe?
Torula yeast is not listed as a food additive on the UK Register of Food Additive Authorisations, meaning it is used as a food ingredient rather than an additive.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use torula yeast primarily as a flavour enhancer, providing a savoury, umami taste similar to that of meat or cheese. It is often found in processed foods such as sauces, soups, snacks like potato crisps, and meat substitutes to add depth of flavour.
Health notes
Torula yeast is not listed as a food additive on the UK Register of Food Additive Authorisations, meaning it is used as a food ingredient rather than an additive. It is a source of B vitamins and protein. Evidence regarding significant health impacts at typical consumption levels is limited.
Allergen info
Torula yeast is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Torula yeast
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