Hydrolyzed Yeast Extract
Hydrolyzed yeast extract is widely used as a clean-label umami flavor enhancer. It provides naturally occurring glutamates similar to MSG.
What it is
Yeast cells (typically Saccharomyces cerevisiae) broken down by enzymatic or acid hydrolysis to release amino acids, peptides, and naturally occurring glutamates.
Flavor enhancer providing umami/savory taste; source of free glutamates.
Why it's flagged
- functionally similar to MSG
- high sodium in some products
- free glutamate content not always disclosed
What regulators actually say
"FDA requires that foods containing added MSG list it in the ingredient panel as 'monosodium glutamate.' But MSG occurs naturally in ingredients such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed yeast, yeast extract, soy extracts, and protein isolate."
"Yeast and yeast extracts — accepted food ingredients."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as a flavor; FDA Q&A clarifies labeling for hydrolyzed protein/yeast extract.
European Union — EFSA
Conventional food/flavoring ingredient.
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