FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section! Here you will find
detailed information about yeast, the fascinating microorganism that has been widely
used for thousands of years in the production of food and beverages.
This page was created to answer the main questions about yeast and its derivatives,
such as yeast extract. Our goal is to offer consultative content that clarifies everything
from basic concepts to functional benefits, nutritional composition, production
processes, and practical applications.
Explore the questions below and discover how yeast can transform recipes, promote
sodium and sugar reduction, enrich diets, and meet the demands of consumers who
are increasingly attentive to the quality and naturalness of ingredients. If your
question is not covered, feel free to contact us!

WHAT IS YEAST?

Yeast is a unicellular microorganism belonging to the fungi kingdom (Fungi). Yeasts are
microscopic and have a relatively simple cellular structure, consisting of a single cell
capable of performing all vital functions necessary for survival and reproduction. Known
and used by humans for over 5,000 years, Egyptians used them in the production of bread
and wine. Over time and with technological advances, Louis Pasteur unveiled some of their
secrets, and yeasts began to be used in other areas beyond food production and
fermentation.

WHAT IS YEAST EXTRACT?

Yeast extract is derived from yeast, a unicellular microorganism widely known for its use in
food production and fermentation processes. The extract is the intracellular content of yeast
—the soluble fraction, where essential nutrients and bioactive compounds are concentrated
—making it a valuable addition for flavor enhancement and nutritional enrichment in foods
and beverages. Yeast extract is naturally sourced, contains no animal products, and helps
build flavor in a wide range of applications, providing a mouthwatering sensation, a touch of
savory taste, umami impact, and natural flavor enhancement. It naturally contains proteins,
free amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

WHAT IS THE COMPOSITION OF YEAST?
Yeast is a source of valuable nutrients, including high-quality protein (about 65%), B-complex vitamins, minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium, as well as fiber. This combination makes it an excellent choice for enriching the diets of both humans and animals.
WHAT IS THE USE OF YEAST IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY?

Yeast extract is the intracellular content of yeast, the soluble part. It is obtained from fresh
yeast through a process involving fermentation, heating (which breaks the cell wall),
centrifugation, and drying. Yeast extract consists of proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates,
vitamins, and minerals from the inside of the yeast cell, without the surrounding cell wall.
Nutritional yeast is the whole, dried yeast with the cell wall and intracellular content
preserved. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. Widely used as a
nutritional supplement for humans, a functional vehicle in the food industry, and an
alternative protein source in animal nutrition.

HOW IS YEAST EXTRACT PRODUCED?

Yeast extract is obtained from fresh yeast through a process that involves fermentation in a sugar-rich medium, heating (which breaks the cell wall), centrifugation (which separates the cell wall from the intracellular contents, the extract), and drying (which converts the
yeast into a powder).

WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS OF YEAST EXTRACT?
  •  Sodium reduction: Yeast extracts have a spice-like effect thanks to their aromatic
    and characteristic flavor, allowing for reduced total salt content in recipes and
    providing healthier solutions.
  • Nutritional enrichment: Source of B-complex vitamins, proteins, and essential
    minerals, adding nutritional value.
  • Flavor enhancement: Its natural umami flavor intensifies the taste of foods
    without artificial additives.
  • Versatility: Can be incorporated into various formulations, such as broths, sauces,
    soups, snacks, and even sweet applications.
CAN YEAST EXTRACT BE USED IN VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN RECIPES?

Yes. Besides enhancing the flavor of animal protein dishes, yeast extract is perfect for
preparing vegetarian and vegan dishes, as it contains no animal ingredients. Its
characteristic flavor adds meaty notes to plant-based applications, making it ideal for those
who wish to reduce meat consumption while maintaining strong flavor in their dishes.

WHY DOES YEAST EXTRACT HELP REDUCE SODIUM?

Thanks to its aromatic and characteristic flavor, yeast extract adds a delicious, savory touch
to foods, compensating for the reduction of salt in preparations and formulations.

CAN YEAST EXTRACT ALSO HELP REDUCE SUGAR?

Yes. Some types of yeast extracts have a more toasted flavor profile, contributing sweet
notes like chocolate, caramel, and coffee, also compensating for the lack of sweetness in
specific sugar-reduced formulations.

IS YEAST EXTRACT NATURAL?

Yes, yeast extract is a natural ingredient produced by yeast fermentation using a sugar-rich
source (molasses). This natural fermentation process has been used in food and beverage
production, such as bread and wine, for thousands of years.

WHAT IS THE UMAMI FLAVOR PRESENT IN YEAST EXTRACT?

Umami is a Japanese term meaning “savory taste” or “delicious taste.” It is known as the fifth
basic taste, along with sweet, sour, bitter, and salty. The umami flavor stands out for
providing a unique mouthwatering sensation, spreading across the tongue and lasting
longer than other flavors. Composed mainly of amino acids and peptides, it is found in
traditional foods such as soy sauce, tomato, mushrooms, and cheese.