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Yeast Extract

Low concern

Yeast extract is GRAS and widely permitted. It naturally contains free glutamate (the same compound as MSG) and is a transparency concern for consumers seeking to avoid added MSG.

Found in

36,234 products

What it is

Concentrate of soluble compounds from autolyzed Saccharomyces yeast cells; contains naturally occurring glutamates and nucleotides.

Flavor enhancer (umami), source of natural MSG.

Why it's flagged

contains naturally occurring glutamate equivalent to MSG without 'MSG' on label
potential headache/symptom triggers in self-reported MSG-sensitive individuals

What regulators actually say

"FDA considers labels such as 'No MSG' or 'No Added MSG' to be misleading if the food contains ingredients that are sources of free glutamates, such as hydrolyzed protein... or yeast extract."

FDA Q&A on MSG — fda.gov

Regulatory status

United States — FDA

GRAS; free glutamate must be considered with 'no MSG added' claims (FDA guidance)

European Union — EFSA

Permitted ingredient

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