Ad for Fleischmann’s Yeast in “Look Magazine,” October 10, 1939, proposing yeast as a treatment for acne.
The Fleischmann’s Yeast ad claimed that adolescent pimples stemmed from “sluggish intestinal action” and a deficiency in Vitamin A, both of which could allegedly be remedied by consuming two cakes of Fleischmann’s High-Vitamin Yeast daily. The ad promised visible skin improvement in “30 days or less,” citing over 6,000 units of Vitamin A per serving and anecdotal testimonials from teens.
At the time, vitamins were a relatively new frontier in nutrition science. Vitamin A was known to support skin health, and yeast—rich in B vitamins and some A—was marketed as a cure-all for everything from constipation to “internal fatigue.” However, the American Medical Association criticized such ads for unverified medical claims. The Federal Trade Commission eventually pressured Fleischmann’s to tone down its health assertions.
Modern dermatology does not support yeast as a reliable acne treatment. While nutrition plays a role in skin health, acne is primarily caused by excess oil production, clogged pores, bacterial growth, or hormonal fluctuations. Vitamin A derivatives (like retinoids) are still used today—but topically, not through yeast cakes.
Dermatologists now recommend a range of evidence-based products such as Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel (that kills acne-causing bacteria); Pharmagel Pharma Clear (that unclogs pores and reduces inflammation); Neutrogena Stubborn Acne Spot Treatment (that targets redness and post-acne marks); and Differin Gel (that promotes cell turnover and prevents clogged pores). For moderate to severe or hormonal acne, dermatologists may also prescribe antibiotics or hormonal meds taken orally.
[Sources: “8 Options for Treating Acne, As Recommended by Dermatologists” at Byrdie.com; “Vintage Ads: Let Them Eat Yeast?” at SaturdayEveningPost.com; and “The Healing Power of Compressed Yeast” by Catherine Price at ScienceHistory.org]
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The pitch for yeast has evolved from “clear skin in 30 days” to “nutritional powerhouse in a sprinkle.” Today, nutritional yeast (often called nooch) is widely promoted for several alleged health benefits, especially among plant-based eaters and wellness enthusiasts. The promoted benefits include energy boost, immune support, gut health, heart health, pregnancy support, and support for skin, hair and nails.
Rich in protein and fiber and gluten-free, yeast does add a cheesy, umami flavor to vegan dishes. However, more research is needed to confirm health claims.
[Sources: WebMD.com, MedicalNewsToday.com, and Healthline.com]
Ad for Fleischmann’s Yeast in “Look Magazine,” October 10, 1939, proposing yeast as a treatment for acne.
The Fleischmann’s Yeast ad claimed that adolescent pimples stemmed from “sluggish intestinal action” and a deficiency in Vitamin A, both of which could allegedly be remedied by consuming two cakes of Fleischmann’s High-Vitamin Yeast daily. The ad promised visible skin improvement in “30 days or less,” citing over 6,000 units of Vitamin A per serving and anecdotal testimonials from teens.
At the time, vitamins were a relatively new frontier in nutrition science. Vitamin A was known to support skin health, and yeast—rich in B vitamins and some A—was marketed as a cure-all for everything from constipation to “internal fatigue.” However, the American Medical Association criticized such ads for unverified medical claims. The Federal Trade Commission eventually pressured Fleischmann’s to tone down its health assertions.
Modern dermatology does not support yeast as a reliable acne treatment. While nutrition plays a role in skin health, acne is primarily caused by excess oil production, clogged pores, bacterial growth, or hormonal fluctuations. Vitamin A derivatives (like retinoids) are still used today—but topically, not through yeast cakes.
Dermatologists now recommend a range of evidence-based products such as Zapzyt Acne Treatment Gel (that kills acne-causing bacteria); Pharmagel Pharma Clear (that unclogs pores and reduces inflammation); Neutrogena Stubborn Acne Spot Treatment (that targets redness and post-acne marks); and Differin Gel (that promotes cell turnover and prevents clogged pores). For moderate to severe or hormonal acne, dermatologists may also prescribe antibiotics or hormonal meds taken orally.
[Sources: “8 Options for Treating Acne, As Recommended by Dermatologists” at Byrdie.com; “Vintage Ads: Let Them Eat Yeast?” at SaturdayEveningPost.com; and “The Healing Power of Compressed Yeast” by Catherine Price at ScienceHistory.org]
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The pitch for yeast has evolved from “clear skin in 30 days” to “nutritional powerhouse in a sprinkle.” Today, nutritional yeast (often called nooch) is widely promoted for several alleged health benefits, especially among plant-based eaters and wellness enthusiasts. The promoted benefits include energy boost, immune support, gut health, heart health, pregnancy support, and support for skin, hair and nails.
Rich in protein and fiber and gluten-free, yeast does add a cheesy, umami flavor to vegan dishes. However, more research is needed to confirm health claims.
[Sources: WebMD.com, MedicalNewsToday.com, and Healthline.com]