2026-03-02
Is Nutritional Yeast the Same as Yeast Extract?
Marmite and Engevita are both made from yeast but they are very different products. Here is what sets them apart and which one does what.
It is a reasonable question. Both are made from yeast, both are popular with vegans, both have that deep savoury flavour. But nutritional yeast and yeast extract are quite different products, and they are not really interchangeable.
Here is how they differ.
What is yeast extract?
Yeast extract — Marmite being the most famous example — is made by breaking down the yeast cells and extracting the contents. The result is a thick, intensely salty, concentrated paste. It is very strongly flavoured and used in small amounts: spread on toast, dissolved in hot water as a drink, or stirred into soups and stews for depth.
It contains B vitamins naturally, including some B12 in certain fortified versions, but the primary reason people use it is flavour. The sodium content is high.
What is nutritional yeast?
Nutritional yeast is made from yeast that has been grown on a food source, then deactivated with heat and dried into flakes or powder. The yeast cells are whole but inactive. The result is a mild, nutty, slightly cheesy flavouring with a much gentler taste than yeast extract and significantly less salt.
It is used in larger amounts: a tablespoon or two on pasta, in sauces, on popcorn, stirred into scrambled eggs. Because the yeast cells are whole rather than broken down, it retains a fuller nutritional profile including protein, fibre, and all nine essential amino acids.
The key differences
Flavour: Yeast extract is intense and salty. Nutritional yeast is mild and nutty. They are not substitutes for each other in a recipe.
Salt: Yeast extract is very high in sodium. Nutritional yeast is naturally low in salt.
Nutrition: Nutritional yeast is a meaningful source of protein, fibre, and B vitamins. Yeast extract provides B vitamins but not protein or fibre in useful quantities.
B12: This depends on the product. Engevita B12 Yeast Flakes are specifically fortified with B12, making them a reliable daily source for vegans. Marmite also contains B12 but the amount per realistic serving is small given how little you use.
Use: Yeast extract is a condiment used in small quantities for intense flavour. Nutritional yeast is a wholefood ingredient used in larger quantities as a seasoning and nutritional supplement.
Which one should you buy?
If you want a spread for toast or something to add depth to a broth: yeast extract.
If you want a vegan source of B12, protein, and a gentle cheesy flavour for everyday cooking: nutritional yeast.
A lot of people keep both. They do different things.
What we stock
We carry the full Marigold Engevita range at all three Beanfreaks stores in Cardiff. If you are looking specifically for a reliable plant-based B12 source, the Engevita B12 Yeast Flakes are the one to go for — it is what most of our customers use it for.
- Roath: 95 Albany Road, CF24 3LP
- Canton: 124 Cowbridge Road East, CF11 9DX
- Royal Arcade: 8 Royal Arcade, Morgan Quarter, CF10 1AE
Not sure which Engevita is right for you? Get in touch or come in and ask.