Is there B12 in non-fortified nutritional yeast? A comprehensive guide

November 1, 2025 •

4 min read

Vitamin B12 is produced by certain bacteria and is not naturally present in most plant-based foods, including yeast. This fact is critical for understanding whether there is B12 in non-fortified nutritional yeast, which lacks the synthetic vitamin B12 commonly added to its fortified counterpart.

Quick Summary

Non-fortified nutritional yeast does not contain vitamin B12, unlike the fortified versions with added synthetic B12. It provides other B vitamins naturally, but vegans and vegetarians relying on nutritional yeast for B12 must choose a fortified product or supplement their diet.

Key Points

No Natural B12: Non-fortified nutritional yeast contains no naturally occurring vitamin B12, which is typically produced by bacteria, not yeast.
Fortification is Key: Only fortified nutritional yeast, which has synthetic B12 added during manufacturing, provides this essential vitamin.
Check the Label: To ensure you are getting B12, always check the product's packaging for the word 'fortified' and review the nutritional information.
Not a Standalone Source: Vegans and vegetarians relying on nutritional yeast for B12 must confirm it is a fortified version or consider alternative sources, like supplements.
Other Benefits Remain: Even without B12, non-fortified nutritional yeast is still a good source of protein, fiber, and other natural B vitamins.
B12 is Critical for Vegans: Due to B12's absence in most plant-based foods, supplementation is crucial for those on vegan diets to prevent deficiency.

What Exactly is Nutritional Yeast?

Nutritional yeast, often called 'nooch,' is a deactivated strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast sold as flakes or powder. Unlike active baker's or brewer's yeast, it cannot cause fermentation. It is grown on a sugar-rich medium, like molasses, then harvested, washed, and dried with heat. This process gives it a distinct savory, cheesy, and nutty flavor, making it a popular seasoning in vegan and plant-based cooking. However, its nutritional profile, particularly concerning Vitamin B12, varies significantly based on how it's processed.

The Crucial Difference: Fortified vs. Unfortified

As the search results confirm, the presence of Vitamin B12 in nutritional yeast is not a natural characteristic of the organism itself. B12 is produced by specific bacteria, not yeast. Therefore, any vitamin B12 found in nutritional yeast is a result of fortification, where the vitamin is added synthetically during manufacturing. This creates a clear distinction between the two types found on the market.

Non-Fortified Nutritional Yeast: The Natural Option

No added B12: By definition, non-fortified products do not contain added synthetic vitamins, including B12.
Naturally occurring nutrients: While lacking B12, it is still a source of other naturally produced nutrients, such as protein, fiber, and trace minerals like zinc.
Other B vitamins: Non-fortified yeast naturally contains some B vitamins, such as thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and folate (B9), though typically in lower amounts than fortified versions.
Flavor profile: Some purists prefer the taste of the non-fortified version, believing it has a cleaner, less synthetic flavor.

Fortified Nutritional Yeast: The B12 Powerhouse

Added B12: Fortified nutritional yeast has synthetic vitamin B12 added, making it a reliable source of this crucial nutrient for those on plant-based diets.
Other added vitamins: Many fortified products also include additional vitamins and minerals, significantly boosting their nutritional content.
Reliable for vegans: Since B12 is predominantly found in animal products, fortified nutritional yeast is a widely-used and effective way for vegans to obtain it.

Comparison: Fortified vs. Unfortified Nutritional Yeast


Feature	Fortified Nutritional Yeast	Non-Fortified Nutritional Yeast
Vitamin B12 Content	High, from synthetic addition.	None or trace amounts.
Other B Vitamins	High levels, supplemented during processing.	Naturally occurring levels, but generally lower.
Nutrient Source	Synthetic vitamins added post-production.	Only naturally occurring vitamins and minerals.
Intended Use	Vegan B12 source and nutritional boost.	Flavor enhancer, protein, and natural B vitamin source.
Flavor Profile	Some report a more 'synthetic' taste.	A purer, more natural, cheesy taste.
Cost	Can sometimes be more expensive due to fortification.	Potentially cheaper without synthetic additives.

Why is B12 so important, especially for vegans?

Vitamin B12 is essential for several critical bodily functions. It plays a key role in the formation of red blood cells, supports brain health, and is vital for the proper function and development of nerve cells. A deficiency can lead to serious health issues, including fatigue, nerve damage, and megaloblastic anemia. Since B12 is primarily found in animal products, vegans and vegetarians are at a higher risk of deficiency and must obtain it through fortified foods or supplements. For this reason, it is critical to understand the distinction between fortified and non-fortified yeast.

How to Ensure Adequate B12 Intake

For individuals following a plant-based diet, simply adding nutritional yeast to meals isn't enough to guarantee B12 intake unless the product is specifically fortified. The most reliable strategy for avoiding a deficiency involves a combination of methods:

Choose fortified nutritional yeast: Always check the product's label to ensure it is fortified with vitamin B12. Look for brands that explicitly state 'fortified with B12' or review the nutrition facts panel.
Take a supplement: B12 supplements, often in the form of cyanocobalamin, are a highly reliable and bioavailable option. Many health professionals recommend them, especially for those on strict vegan diets.
Consume other fortified foods: Many plant-based milks, cereals, and meat alternatives are also fortified with vitamin B12. Reading labels is key to identifying these sources.
Consult a healthcare provider: For individuals concerned about their B12 levels, a blood test can provide definitive information. A doctor or registered dietitian can offer personalized advice on supplementing.

Conclusion

To answer the central question: No, there is no B12 in non-fortified nutritional yeast. The presence of this essential vitamin is entirely dependent on whether it has been added synthetically during processing. For those on a vegan or plant-based diet, distinguishing between fortified and unfortified varieties is not merely a matter of preference but a vital step in ensuring proper nutrient intake. While non-fortified nutritional yeast remains a great source of natural B vitamins, protein, and flavor, it cannot be relied upon as a source of vitamin B12. Consumers must carefully read labels and consider other fortified foods or supplements to meet their daily requirements and maintain optimal health. For more on the importance of B12, see the National Institutes of Health fact sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you cannot rely on unfortified nutritional yeast for your daily vitamin B12 needs. Since vitamin B12 is not naturally produced by yeast, unfortified versions do not contain it. You must use a fortified product or a supplement.

You can determine if nutritional yeast is fortified by checking the product label. It will typically state 'fortified' on the packaging, and the nutrition facts panel will list vitamin B12 content.

Yes, the vitamin B12 used to fortify nutritional yeast is synthetic and not derived from animal sources, making it a vegan-friendly option.

Non-fortified nutritional yeast is a natural source of complete protein, fiber, and trace minerals. It also provides naturally occurring B vitamins like B1, B2, and B9, though in lower concentrations than fortified varieties.

Taste is subjective, but some people report that non-fortified nutritional yeast has a purer, cleaner, and less synthetic flavor due to the absence of added vitamins. It is often a matter of personal preference.

B12 is essential for red blood cell formation, nerve function, and brain health. Since it is primarily found in animal products, plant-based eaters must ensure they get it from fortified foods or supplements to prevent a deficiency.

Yes, non-fortified nutritional yeast can still be used for its flavor and other naturally occurring nutrients. However, it should not be relied upon for B12. Many people incorporate both fortified and non-fortified varieties into their diet depending on their specific needs.

No, the fermentation process involving Saccharomyces cerevisiae does not naturally produce vitamin B12. The B12 found in fortified nutritional yeast is added synthetically and is not a byproduct of the yeast's growth.