Is yeast extract gluten-free? Usually, but not always

The full answer

Most yeast extract is made from baker's yeast grown on sugar, and it contains no gluten. That's the kind in most chips, soups and seasoning mixes.

Some yeast extract is made from brewer's yeast, the yeast left over from making beer. Beer is brewed from barley, and traces of barley gluten can stay in the extract. Marmite and regular Vegemite, for example, are made from brewer's yeast and are not gluten-free.

Labels rarely say which kind of yeast was used. In the US, barley doesn't have to be named as an allergen, so "yeast extract" alone doesn't tell you much.

If you have celiac disease, look for a certified gluten-free logo on the product. Brands that use gluten-free yeast extract usually say so, and some make gluten-free versions of yeast spreads.

What to look for on the label

• "Certified gluten-free" logo on the product
• "Brewer's yeast extract" or "barley" means it may contain gluten
• "Torula yeast" is grown on wood sugars and is gluten-free

Other diets

Common questions