I am a Label Reading Goblin.

Written By Ambanda Cadabra

Welcome to Amber’s Kitchen

If you’re here because your body is picky, your kids are picky, your budget is picky, or all three… you’re my people.

We’re gonna make good food, read labels, swap ingredients, and keep it real.

And yes, I will absolutely keep oversharing my ingredient trust issues along the way.

Life in Amber’s Kitchen with a Yeast Allergy (and many more)

If you’ve ever watched me inspect a food label like I’m solving a crime… hi. Welcome. This is why. 😂

I have a yeast allergy (brewer’s yeast), which sounds simple until you realize yeast is apparently in everything except my patience.

Most people hear “yeast allergy” and think,
“Oh no bread. That’s sad.”

And yes, bread is out here trying to ruin my life.
But it’s also a whole bunch of sneaky stuff that makes grocery shopping feel like a full-contact sport.

So if you’re wondering why I’m over here side-eyeing snacks and interrogating condiments, this post is for you.

What Happens If I Eat the Wrong Thing

My reactions can be a fun little mix of:

  • Face/ears turning red

  • Feeling hot all over

  • Itching and hives

  • Coughing

  • GI upset (because apparently my body likes drama)

It’s not always instant, and it’s not always obvious, which makes it extra annoying.
Like… was it that ingredient? Or that one? Or the “natural flavors” mystery blend from hell?

So now I read labels like it’s my part-time job.

“Yeast Allergy” Does NOT Just Mean Bread

This is where it gets messy.

Yes, I avoid the obvious stuff like:

  • Bread

  • Rolls

  • Pizza dough

  • Beer

But yeast-related issues can also show up in things like:

  • Yeast extract

  • Soy sauce

  • Most broths and seasoning blends

  • Certain flavor enhancers / MSG-type ingredients

  • Some vinegars (I personally stick to distilled vinegar as a precaution)

  • Enriched foods (big one for me)

  • Overripe fruit

  • Berries like blueberries, grapes, and other fruit that has yeast on the outside.

So no, I’m not being “extra.”
I’m trying not to spend the day red, itchy, and regretting my life choices. 😅

The Extra Annoying Part: “Hidden” or Passive Yeast Stuff

Here’s where it gets real fun (read: deeply rude).

Sometimes it’s not just “contains yeast” on the label. Sometimes it’s:

  • how something was processed

  • whether it was fermented

  • whether a yeast-derived ingredient is hiding in a vague term

Basically, I can’t just ask, “Does this have yeast?”
I also have to ask, “How was this made, and are you lying to me?”

That’s why I’m cautious with a lot of packaged foods — and why I end up making so much from scratch.

The Fruit Thing (Yep, Even Fruit Can Be Complicated)

I was told to avoid fruits with a white natural bloom on them (like some grapes) because of natural yeast on the surface. I also avoid blemished fruit, as those blemishes invite yeast.

So if you ever catch me staring at produce like it personally offended me… now you know.

Food allergies are weird, and mine definitely likes to keep me humble.

What I DO Eat

Listen, I am not here for sad allergy food.

I focus on simple, safer staples and build from there:

  • Meat

  • Rice

  • Potatoes

  • Veggies - LOTS of them!

  • Pasta

  • Homemade sauces/dressings

  • Flavorful seasonings

  • Cheese

I cook a lot from scratch because it gives me control — and honestly, that’s a huge reason Amber’s Kitchen exists.

If it’s complicated, bland, or requires a chemistry degree, I’m out.

Why I’m Sharing This on Amber’s Kitchen

Because I know I’m not the only one out here asking:

“Can I eat this?”
…while holding a label in one hand and a toddler snack in the other. 🙃

Whether you’re dealing with allergies, sensitivities, food triggers, or just trying to cook around a bunch of “nope” ingredients, I get it.

This part of my site is where I’ll share:

  • yeast-conscious meals

  • tomato free meals

  • ingredient swaps

  • snack ideas

  • label-check wins

  • and realistic “feed the people without losing it” recipes

Basically: food that works in real life, not just on Pinterest.

Tiny Disclaimer So Nobody Yells at Me on the Internet

I’m sharing my personal experience with a diagnosed yeast allergy and what works for me.

I’m not a doctor, and this isn’t medical advice. Allergies/sensitivities are super individual, so always follow your own provider’s guidance.

I’m just a tired mom in the kitchen trying to make food that doesn’t fight back. 💅

Ambanda Cadabra

I’m a mom of 3, crafter, maker, baker, and risk taker!