Review: Bragg Nutritional Yeast Seasoning

.When I became vegan almost two years ago, I would often see recipes calling for nutritional yeast and people also mentioned nutritional yeast to me from time to time. I didn't really know what is was, and I never took the time to read about the product...until now. I was so impressed with an article I read about nutritional yeast and the health benefits, I went out and purchased some today to see for myself. There were two things that made me want to try the product. Many say it is a great cheese substitute, and it it has a nice list of health benefits.

1. It is a great source of vitamins and minerals. When I turned it over to read the nutrition  information on the back, I was surprised, especially when I saw the percentage of vitamin B12. Many vegans are concerned about getting enough B vitamins in their diet, and this product definitely delivers when it comes to vitamin B12. According to Dr. Josh Axe, "Consuming B12 helps your mood, energy level, memory, heart, skin, hair, and digestion."

2. Nutritional yeast is not the same as brewer's yeast. Brewer's yeast is used to make beer and bread and derived from a fungus. It does not contain vitamin B12. Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast, and a 1/4 cup serving contains 290 percent daily value of vitamin B12. 

3. Nutritional yeast helps boost the immune system. It contains immune boosting compounds. According to Dr. Michael Greger, the beta glucan fiber in nutritional yeast can help maintain our body's defense against pathogens. 

4. Nutritional yeast is a great source of protein. A 1/4 cup serving contains 9 grams of plant based protein.

 I sprinkled some on my salad as well, and it provided a delicious cheesy flavor. My daughter saw me add it to my pasta at dinner, and she asked to try it. Now she is a fan of nutritional yeast, too. It definitely enhanced the overall taste of the pasta.

Nutritional yeast will be an ongoing staple in my household, and my only regret is not trying it sooner.