On September 12 ,  2024 , Health Canada issued a document approving a genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ie. beer yeast) preparation -Sourvisiae® for use in food.

In 2023 , Health Canada received an application to allow the sale of a genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ie. brewer's yeast) preparation - Sourvisiae® for use in food. Sourvisiae® is designed to replace other commercial sources of yeast in beer fermentation to produce alcohol and impart sourness through lactic acid production.

To determine whether this yeast preparation could be sold as a food in Canada, Health Canada scientists conducted a scientific evaluation to ensure it was safe for consumption.

After evaluation, it was determined that the changes made to this yeast strain do not pose a greater risk to human health than other yeast strains currently on the market in Canada. Additionally, Health Canada concluded that this strain of yeast does not pose an allergenic concern and that there are no nutritional concerns with its use in food.