VEGEMITE

Vegemite - the Australian food tradition. Basically, the original recipe has virtually remained unchanged over the many years of its history and believe it or not is yeast based product. Unfortunately, you either love it or hate it. But unless you try it, you'll never know!

Yeast is known for its natural source of the vitamin B complex which includes thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, p-amino benzoic acid and several other factors.

Yeast extract because it is four or five times more concentrated than yeast, is therefore one of the richest known sources of the vitamin B group. In addition to being vitamin B rich, yeast extract also contains other essential constituents such as protein and minerals, making Vegemite an excellent addition to the family diet.

So what are the major vitamins contained in Vegemite?

Thiamin

(B1) plays an essential role in converting carbohydrates to energy, as well as being important for growth and normal functioning of the nervous system and heart.

Riboflavin

(B2) is also important for the release of energy from foods, in particular protein metabolism. Riboflavin is essential for the development and repair of tissues, including the skin and eyes and is necessary for growth.

Niacin

(B3) is necessary for normal energy metabolism.

Folate

Folate is another B group vitamin with several important functions. Folate is essential for the formation of red blood cells and the production of enzymes and other body proteins. A deficiency in folate results in a type of anaemia, which can cause weakness, tiredness, diarrhoea and weight loss. In babies and young children growth may be affected. Folate also plays a vital role in the growth of a developing embryo. Research has revealed that the risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect can be reduced up to 70% if women increase their intake of folate.