COFALEC Confederation of European Yeast Producers

A dermatologist answers whether brewers' yeast really makes hair grow faster. "Brewer's yeast is a well-known, effective and inexpensive solution for strengthening the hair fibre, particularly in cases of hair loss, as it contributes to the synthesis of the keratin that makes up the hair shaft", explains Dr Nina Roos, a dermatologist in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Its high content of B-group vitamins (B1, B5, B8, B9), trace elements and minerals also helps to make hair supple and shiny, while improving its quality. Rich in Zinc, Selenium and Vitamin E, it also contributes to healthy hair growth. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/dgiUt_9P

When Masterpieces Arise from Yeast: New York University use yeast as an artistic medium in their lab. Instead of pens or paintbrushes, these scientists use genetics, genomics, and synthetic biology to transform yeast cultures into vibrant works of art. The Yeast Art Project arose more than a decade ago as an unexpected offshoot of Boeke’s “Build-a-Genome” course at Johns Hopkins University. Students used the same techniques to genetically modify yeast to produce beta-carotene, enhancing its nutritional value and transforming its off-white color to shades of yellow and orange. This pigment change inspired a couple of Boeke’s students to explore the artistic side of yeast. To find out more and see the artworks: https://lnkd.in/dseW7mHR

According to The Drinks Business, beer yeast could be used to create drinking water on Mars. Beer yeast, which is being used to remove toxins from water to make it safe to consume, could be used in deep space projects in the future. The suggestion, which began following an initiative where researchers at MIT and Georgia Tech used leftover beer yeast from Atlanta’s Scofflaw Brewing to remove lead from water to make it safe to drink, is now also being heralded to eradicate other contaminants from water, including PFAS and microplastics. The yeast which is turned into capsules can then be added to a filter attached to a sink or water treatment plant. The team predicted that the spent yeast could someday help make it possible for people to live on Mars. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/dE4PfqE3

According to Indiana University News, yeast can deliver an environmentally safe insecticide to combat mosquitoes. To limit the spread of these dangerous diseases, the university researcher has developed a genetically based RNA interference insecticide. RNAi is a cellular mechanism that “turns off” a gene using its own DNA. Because they can spread infectious diseases — including Zika, dengue and malaria — they pose a significant threat to global health, which this insecticide could help combat. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/gn486Vha

According to this recent article, a Dutch alternative protein startup is launching a powdered egg substitute made from spent brewer’s yeast to enhance plant-based meat formulations. The ingredient boasts the same binding and emulsification qualities eggs possess, but aims to remove the supply chain volatility, animal abuse, price fluctuations, and allergy risks associated with conventional eggs. The non-GMO vegan egg substitute comes in a powdered format labelled as “yeast protein”. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/ePs8nQVV

This new yeast-fermented bread shows promise in preventing asthma symptoms, according to News Medical. The study published in Current Developments in Nutrition investigated the effects of a functional bread fermented with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in asthma prevention, in the context of increased asthma prevalence, particularly in more urbanized and high-income countries. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/dm-JnJq8

According to this recent study, a biotech company has unveiled a groundbreaking technology that enhances the cultivation process for yeast protein, a vital component in its alternative casein production. This latest innovation reduces the cultivation time for yeast protein by up to 30%, resulting in significant time and cost savings. This cleaner, more efficient production method aligns with the growing consumer demand for clean label products. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/dHWZRsxk

According to this recent article, a German biotechnology company has raised US$20M in funding to expand production of yeast-fermented lipids for food and cosmetics. Using a fermentation process similar to the process used in brewing beer or the culturing of cheese, the company uses micro-organisms and natural ingredients such as sugar, salt, water and alternative second-generation feedstocks to produce natural ingredients. To find out more: https://lnkd.in/dK8i6pev

According to this recent article, yeast can help you grow tomatoes to produce as much fruit as possible. Yeast also acts as a natural probiotic for the soil. When introduced into the soil, it encourages the proliferation of beneficial micro-organisms. These micro-organisms improve the structure of the soil, facilitate the decomposition of organic matter and increase the availability of nutrients to tomato plants.  Yeast contains vital plant nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium, vitamins and minerals. These nutrients contribute to plant growth, flowering and fruit ripening. But that's not all: yeast will also protect plants from disease and parasites.  To find out more: https://lnkd.in/dUHXjjTe

A recent study by Northeast Forestry University identified benzaldehyde in beer yeast protein powder as a key attractant for the Oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis. This discovery offers a promising avenue for developing more effective and environmentally friendly protein baits.  To find out more: https://lnkd.in/d_bX5WE8