Foods That Contain Yeast Extract

Yeast extract is prepared by allowing the enzymes in baker's yeast to digest themselves, a process known as autolysis. The autolysis is stopped through the application of heat, and produces a clear, water-soluble extract which is then dried. This dry extract is a strong flavor enhancer, and is added to a variety of savory foods to improve the depth and complexity of the flavors.

Sauces and Gravies

• Many commercial sauces and gravies contain yeast extract.

  Yeast extract is often added to pre-packaged sauce and gravy mixes, as it enhances the savory, meaty flavors and aromas. Beef and chicken broth also often contain yeast extract to improve flavor and palatability.

Cheese

• Yeast extract is particularly effective at enhancing the flavor of cheese, and is often included in products such as cheese-flavored rice or pasta mixes amd cheese crackers. Many bakery products containing some type of cheese, such as cheese croissants or loaves of cheese bread, may contain this extract kneaded into the dough or dusted directly on top of the product.

Food Spreads

• Many savory food spreads, such as Vegemite and Marmite, are made with yeast extract and flavored with various vegetables and spices. This brown, salty paste is a common sandwich spread and pastry filling in Britain, New Zealand and Australia, and is also available in the United States.

Other Foods

• Snack foods often contain yeast extract for more well-rounded flavor.

  Many commercial foods, including soups, snack foods, seasoning mixes, cereals and bakery products, contain yeast extract to enhance various flavors. If a food contains yeast extract (or autolyzed yeast), it will be listed in the ingredient section of the packaging.