What type of microorganism is yeast?

Yeast falls into the category of fungi, which are a distinct group of microorganisms that differ fundamentally in their structure and function from other types of microorganisms such as bacteria, protozoa, and algae. Fungi, including yeast, are eukaryotic organisms, meaning they have complex cells with a nucleus. This characteristic is a key differentiator from bacteria, which are prokaryotic and do not possess a true nucleus.

Yeast is primarily known for its role in fermentation processes, such as baking and brewing, where it converts sugars into carbon dioxide and alcohol. This fermentation process is crucial in the production of bread, beer, and wine. Additionally, yeast plays an essential role in the production of various nutrients and enzymes that enhance the overall nutritional profile of food. Understanding yeast as part of the fungal kingdom is important for both food preparation and nutrition, as it highlights the diverse functionalities of different microorganisms in culinary practices.