Is yeast suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Q I consider myself a vegan, and was recently questioned by a friend as to whether I consume yeast. She is of the belief that some vegans do not consume yeast because it is a living being. Could you please advise whether you eat yeast, or if other vegans feel this way? Thankyou. A Yeasts are not plants or animals. They belong to the Fungi kingdom, which is a completely separate kingdom to the plant and animal kingdom. The fungi kingdom also includes the moulds, mildews, rusts, smuts, mushrooms, toadstools and puff balls. So technically, yeast is suitable for vegans. I, myself, do consume yeast (mainly in Marmite and Tartex), but as you say, some vegans do not. It is a personal choice. I hope this answers your question.