Nutritional Yeast Market

Nutritional Yeast Market Outlook from 2025 to 2035

The nutritional yeast market is USD 620.7 million in the year 2025, according to Fact.MR's report that the nutritional yeast market will expand with a CAGR of 7.1% and reach USD 1,229.8 million by 2035. One of the key drivers stimulating this growth is the rising uptake of plant-based diets and awareness about yeast as a valuable source of protein, vitamins, and minerals among vegan and health-conscious consumers.

The nutritional yeast market is gaining strong momentum as consumers shift towards fortified and plant-based food. Nutrient-rich yeast is known for its dense nutritional value and umami flavor, is being increasingly utilized in foodstuffs, snacks, sauces, and meal replacers. With consumers seeking clean-label, dairy-free, and gluten-free options, this ingredient emerges as a multi-functional solution delivering umami flavor and added nutrient content without allergens or synthetic additives.

Patterns of premiumization are evident across developed regions, with organic, non-GMO, and enriched versions supplemented with additional B-complex vitamins commanding strong demand. Brands are using an innovative approach to flavored types through the incorporation of spices, herbs, and superfoods to offer gourmet buyers and foodies. Additionally, demand for functional foods emphasizing immunity, energy, and gut health is widening the usage horizon beyond conventional vegan food communities.

Geographically, Europe and North America lead the nutritional yeast market for consumption, fueled by high health consciousness and established plant-based food industries. Asia-Pacific is, nevertheless, a potential growth region with growing vegan communities, shifting eating habits, and pro-health food consumption government policies. The expansion of specialty food chains and health food stores in emerging economies is making it accessible to mass consumers.

Threats of price volatility for molasses (the primary growth medium for yeast) and the threat of commoditization are present. However, firms that focus on higher-quality products, traceable sourcing, fortified products, and robust branding on health advantages will be best placed to succeed in a competitive but fast-growing global nutritional yeast market.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value
Estimated Global Size in 2025	USD 620.7 million
Projected Global Size in 2035	USD 1,229.8 million
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	7.1%

Fact.MR Survey Results: Industry Dynamics Based on Stakeholder Perspectives

Nutritional yeast market players are emphasizing product fortification and clean-label innovation to address increasing consumer interest in health-oriented foods. Approximately 85% of players emphasized that developing fortified yeast with higher B12 and mineral levels was one of the most critical priorities, followed by 78% emphasizing developing organic-certified and non-GMO product offerings.

Strategic retail partnerships and direct-to-consumer brands were highlighted by 72% as key to expanding global access. Regional strategies differ, with North America focusing on high-protein fortified brands, Europe highlighting organic certifications and sustainability efforts, and Asia-Pacific concentrating on affordability and local production expansion.

Technology is leading the way, with 63% of companies investing in precision fermentation and yield-improving technologies. Supply chain risks, particularly price volatility of molasses and stringent certification processes in Europe are still prominent. In the coming years, 78% of investors plan to make investments in specialty yeast uses for sports nutrition, fortified beverages, and pet food.

Regulatory changes driving fortification transparency and functional food certifications in leading regions are reshaping trends. Fortified innovation, sustainability, and direct-to-consumer engagement-focused companies are likely to lead a fast-growing global nutritional yeast market driven by plant-based dietary trends and functional health positioning.

Shifts in the Market from 2020 to 2024 and Future Trends 2025 to 2035

The nutritional yeast market between 2020 and 2024 experienced consistent growth due to rising trends in plant-based eating and veganism. As people became more conscious of their health, clean-label, protein-dense, and B-vitamin-fortified products became hot sellers. This yeast, which has a cheese flavor with health benefits, was among the most important ingredients in vegan and vegetarian recipes. It became a hit in snacks, sauces, and dairy substitutes. Sales expansion was also powered by increased recognition of the uses of this yeast in immunity boosters and overall health promotion.

A faster growth of the industry is anticipated through 2025 to 2035, propelled by an increased migration toward functional food and plant-derived supplements.

The growth in plant-based food trends and demand for health-focused and sustainable dietary practices will continue to drive demand. Also, product innovations in fortified yeast, including other health benefits like added vitamins and minerals, will grow sales. Greater availability in developing regions will also drive growth.

A Comparative Market Shift Analysis (2020 to 2024 vs. 2025 to 2035)

2020 to 2024	2025 to 2035
Increased use of plant-based and vegan foods.	Transition towards functional foods and supplements with added health benefits.
Preferred in vegan cuisine, snacks, and dairy-free products.	Penetration into functional foods, supplements, and fortified nutrient-based foods.
Clean-label, allergen-free, and plant-based products.	Fortified foods with other health benefits like probiotics and minerals.
Led by North America and Europe.	Expansion into emerging regions, especially in Asia-Pacific and Latin America.
Health awareness, veganism, and plant-based diet trends.	Functional foods, greater health benefits, and sustainability trends.

Country-wise Analysis

Countries	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
U.S.	7.5%
UK	7.0%
France	6.7%
Germany	6.8%
Italy	6.4%
South Korea	7.2%
Japan	6.5%
China	8.0%
Australia-NZ	6.3%

The U.S.

The U.S. nutritional yeast market will grow at 7.5% CAGR over the study period. The increasing popularity of plant-based diets and vegan lifestyles is strongly driving demand for this nutrient-dense, dairy-free seasoning substitute. Increasing awareness of its high levels of B vitamins, protein, and antioxidants is broadening usage across a broad demographic spectrum.

Culinary innovation in the food service industry, using it in snacks, sauces, and plant-based foods, further boosts growth in the nutritional yeast market. Retail and e-commerce distribution channel expansion is improving product availability. Growing consumer demand for clean-label and natural products is likely to maintain traction in the forecast period.

UK

The UK nutritional yeast market would grow at 7.0% CAGR over the study period. The growing trend towards flexitarian and plant-based diets is fueling robust demand for related products. Consumers are looking for healthier options that enable vegan and vegetarian diets without sacrificing taste or nutritional content.

Government initiatives encouraging healthy eating and sustainable food consumption are boosting product acceptance. Growing home cooking trends and creativity in vegan recipes using this ingredient are increasing product use. Expansion in health-oriented retail and online channels is also driving growth during the forecast period.

France

The French nutritional yeast market will grow at 6.7% CAGR during the forecast period. Increased emphasis on natural and fortified foods is fueling demand among health-conscious consumers. Increased interest in plant-based nutrition and a growing number of consumers following vegetarian and vegan diets are contributing to growth.

Producers are getting creative with organic and enriched offerings to satisfy consumer demands for quality and transparency. Strong distribution channels, such as supermarkets, specialty health food stores, and online retailers, are enhancing availability. Educational programs emphasizing the health value of this ingredient are projected to support consistent growth through 2035.

Germany

The German nutritional yeast market is projected to register a 6.8% CAGR during the forecast period. Germany's dynamic plant-based food industry is fueling the strong growth of these products. High consumer demand for natural, organic, and allergen-free foods perfectly fits with the product. Use in food preparation, in terms of vegan cheese alternatives, snacks, and sauces, is growing very fast.

Continuous product developments, such as fortified and flavored versions, are stimulating consumer interest. The government's focus on healthy eating campaigns and sustainable food production is likely to support demand over the forecast period.

Italy

Italy's nutritional yeast market is forecast to grow by 6.4% CAGR over the study period. Increasing demand for natural, health-focused food ingredients is driving adoption among Italian consumers. The rising incidence of lactose intolerance and the increasing popularity of plant-based diets are the major driving forces fueling the growth.

New developments in product formulations to improve flavor profiles and nutritional content are widening the acceptability of the product. Growth in specialty health food stores and online shopping websites is making it easier for the product to penetrate the nutritional yeast market further. Promotional efforts emphasizing the nutritional value of yeast-based products are anticipated to enable steady growth throughout the study period.

South Korea

The South Korean nutritional yeast market is anticipated to witness growth at 7.2% CAGR throughout the study. The increasing trend towards functional foods and dietary supplements is strongly driving demand in South Korea. Growing consumer interest in plant-based proteins, coupled with increased adoption of vegan diets, is driving product innovation and growth.

The introduction of convenience foods, snacks, and dietary supplements is expanding product usage. Wide health and wellness trends, bolstered by aggressive promotional campaigns, are increasing product exposure. Growth in digital commerce and health food store chains is additionally fueling availability and usage.

Japan

The Japanese nutritional yeast market will expand by 6.5% CAGR during the research period. An increasing aging population and growing health consciousness are fuelling the demand for nutritious food items like this product. Increasing interest in vegetarian and minimally processed food is consistent with its characteristics.

New trends focusing on adding umami flavor and enhanced nutritional content are boosting product attractiveness among Japanese consumers. The increased popularity of domestic meals and functional foods is broadening the application of these in everyday diets. Strategic growth of online and specialty health food retail channels is anticipated to underpin a steady increase in the next decade.

China

The Chinese nutritional yeast market is expected to expand at 8.0% CAGR over the study period. Rapid urbanization, increasing disposable income, and an expanding health-conscious population are driving the nutritional yeast market in China. Growing adoption of plant-based diets and rising demand for fortified and functional foods are fueling adoption. Domestic and foreign brands are increasingly investing in new-age products to address changing consumer needs.

Growing awareness regarding the health benefits of supporting immunity, digestive health, and overall well-being is increasing sales. The growth of e-commerce platforms and expanding retail networks are greatly enhancing product availability and accelerating overall growth.

Australia-New Zealand

The Australia-New Zealand nutritional yeast market is anticipated to grow at 6.3% CAGR over the study period. Strong consumer demand for natural, organic, and plant-based food products is driving robust growth of the nutritional yeast market in Australia and New Zealand. Growing preference for clean-label, allergen-free, and nutrient-dense products closely aligns with the advantages provided.

Food innovation that includes the ingredients in a range of meal choices, snacks, and functional foods is broadening application. Health and specialty food retail chain expansion and increasing e-commerce presence are enhancing product availability. Increasing public health programs promoting plant-based diets and nutrition education are anticipated to maintain growth through 2035.

Segment-wise Analysis

By Product Type

The Nutritional Yeast market will be segmented by product type in 2025 into Inactive Dry Yeast and Fortified Nutritional Yeast. Inactive Dry Yeast will lead the industry with a share of 50%, and Fortified Nutritional Yeast will hold 35%.

The inactive dry yeast is commonly used as the main ingredient in plant-based and vegan diets. Since it is cheese-like, it is one of the most used additives in these recipes. It is found in sauces, soups, and snacks for vegans. In addition, inactive dry yeast is used to make cheese alternatives and season plant-based foods.

This yeast is virtually always dry, which makes it simple to store, transport, and incorporate into a wide range of food products. Major brands like Bragg, Red Star, and Bob's Red Mill offer inactive dry yeast to the retail and bulk industries but focus more on health-conscious consumers seeking non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly products.

Fortified nutritional yeast is presently gaining share with 35% due to the health benefits attached to it. Fortified nutritional yeast is enriched with added nutrients like vitamin B12, which should not be lacking in the diets of people consuming plants because B12 is usually derived from animal products. The fortified version of nutritional yeast is primarily served in supplements and functional foods to fill dietary voids resulting from vegan and vegetarian diets.

Examples of brands that sell fortified nutritional yeast products are KAL, Sari Foods, and Nutiva. Most of the time, these products target consumers looking for more health benefits in their diet. This segment has been on an upward trend because of awareness of plant-based nutrition and the increasing demand for fortified, nutrient-dense foods.

By Form

The Nutritional Yeast Market is segmented by powder and flake form in the year 2025. Powder will dominate with 40% of the share, while Flakes will account for 35% of the industry.

The Powder form leads the nutritional yeast market due to its versatile nature and ease of incorporation into diverse applications. Nutritional yeast powder is much preferred due to its easy incorporation into drinks, shakes, soups, sauces, and smoothies.

The powder form is predominantly used on an industrial scale for seasoning blends, snack foods, and as an ingredient in functional foods. Smooth texture and quick solubility make it easy for home cooks and food manufacturers alike to use. Nutritional yeasts in powder form are sold by leading brands, including Bragg, KAL, and Bob's Red Mill, who cater to a large consumer base that desires convenience and versatility for their food preparations.

Flakes make up 35% of the share in the nutritional yeast market and have become popular for their peculiar texture and savory, cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast flakes are widely used in vegan cooking as cheese substitutes, especially in pasta, popcorn, and salads.

They are also commonly used in the production of vegan cheese and sprinkled on almost every plant-based dish. The flaky texture provides an ease of sprinkling over foods, giving flavor as well as a nutritional punch. Red Star, Sari Foods, and Nutiva produce nutritional yeast in flake form, usually marketed to consumers seeking a natural and convenient way to add flavor and nutritional punch to their plant-based dishes.

Competitive Outlook

The nutritional yeast market is characterized by the presence of multinational ingredient manufacturers, yeast specialists, and agricultural conglomerates who are expanding their natural nutrition portfolios. AB Mauri is one of the strongest multinational yeast technology leaders, seeing fermentation capability to harness collaborative work with bakery and plant-based food industries, among other things. It adds to that competitive standing across health subsectors with clean-label, vitamin-fortified strains.

Nutreco makes use of its specialization in animal nutrition and human health ingredients and sells nutrient yeast as a sustainable protein source as well as a functional health enhancer. It further entrenches its business even deeper through large-scale production capacities and a diversified portfolio designed for the food feed and supplements sectors.

Meanwhile, Lesaffre Group has been in the master's seat, drawing leverage with its more than a century-old stronghold in fermentation to offer high-quality ingredients that match the actual trends of vegan and functional foods. At the same time, Cargill Incorporated amplifies the existing protein and health solutions portfolio with high-quality products to appeal to global manufacturers looking for scalable alternatives with clean-label solutions.

Angel Yeast and Oriental Yeast continue to expand furiously, especially in the Asia-Pacific, to keep pace with the skyrocketing demand for non-dairy and plant-based ingredients. The competitive intensity continues to increase as players focus on organic production, vitamin B12 fortification, and targeting specific applications in the immunity and energy support supplements.

Market Share Analysis by Company

Company Name	Estimated Market Share (%)
AB Mauri	20-24%
Lesaffre Group	18-22%
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)	14-18%
Cargill Incorporated	10-14%
Nutreco	8-10%
Other Players	15-20%

Key Company Insights

AB Mauri leads the nutritional yeast market with an estimated 20-24% share, driven by its extensive fermentation expertise and partnerships with plant-based and bakery brands. Its strategic focus on clean-label, vitamin-fortified yeast strains and expansion into fortified protein foods further consolidates its leadership in health-driven applications.

Lesaffre Group holds around 18-22% of the share, leveraging its century-long heritage in yeast production and continuous innovation in variants targeting vegan, gluten-free, and fortified food segments. Its investment in organic certification initiatives supports its premium positioning globally.

Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) captures approximately 14-18% share through its robust production capabilities and integration into broader health and wellness ingredient portfolios. ADM’s focus on scalability and diversified application in food, beverage, and feed markets enhances its competitive reach.

Cargill Incorporated commands 10-14%, emphasizing high-purity, clean-label options tailored for large-scale manufacturers. Its global distribution network and ability to customize functional blends position Cargill as a preferred partner for emerging health brands.

Nutreco maintains a solid presence with an 8-10% share, strategically aligning the products with sustainable protein solutions for human nutrition and advanced animal health, reinforcing its reputation for responsible innovation.

Key Players

• AB Mauri
• Nutreco
• Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)
• Lesaffre Group
• Cargill Incorporated
• Associated British Food (ABF)
• AB Vista
• Alltech
• Angel Yeast
• Oriental Yeast

Segmentation

• By Product Type :

  • Inactive Dry Yeast
  • Fortified Nutritional Yeast
  • Revivable Yeast

• By Nature :

  • Organic
  • Conventional

• By Form :

  • Powder
  • Flakes
  • Tablets
  • Capsules
  • Others

• By Application :

  • Food & Beverages
  • Bakery & Confectionery
  • Beverages
  • Functional Foods
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Personal Care
  • Animal Feed
  • Others

• By Sales Channel :

  • Online Sales
  • Offline Sales
  • Modern Trade
  • Specialty Stores
  • Departmental Stores
  • Other Sales Channels

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia
  • Oceania
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)