Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Nutritional yeast is the same strain of fungus as baker’s and brewer’s yeast, but unlike those other varieties, this yeast’s fermentation and leavening properties are inactive. To make nutritional yeast, the fungus is added to a glucose-rich mixture, typically molasses and water, where it ferments and develops proteins. Once the yeast has matured, it is harvested, pasteurized, sterilized, and mixed with added nutrients before being dried and processed into flakes, granules, or powders.

No. Nutritional yeast presents a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve nutritional yeast in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and gagging and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No, nutritional yeast is not considered a common allergen. However, it is possible to develop an allergy to saccharomyces cerevisiae, the source of nutritional yeast. In sensitive individuals, ingesting the yeast may worsen eczema and inhaling the powdered form of the yeast may trigger asthma symptoms. 

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes. While typically used in small amounts, nutritional yeast offers a variety of nutrients, especially when it’s fortified. In general, fortified nutritional yeast offers some carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, in addition to folate and other B vitamins such as vitamins B2, B3, B6, and B12—the exact amounts of these nutrients varies across different brands. These nutrients help to support metabolic processes, energy, growth, development, brain function, mood, and more.

None! Put solid food directly on baby’s tray, plate, or bowl, then let baby explore with their hands. If you like, keep a baby spoon or fork nearby to help familiarize the child with utensils, but the skills to use them are not expected until early toddlerhood.

While a high chair can help create a safe eating environment, there are alternative ways for baby to eat safely, such as holding the child on your lap or sitting together on the floor. For more information, see our article on high chairs.