Immune
EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate)
Also known as: Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentate, S. cerevisiae fermentate, EpiCor, baker's yeast fermentate
EpiCor is a fermented baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) whole-cell extract studied primarily for immune support and antioxidant effects. Clinical evidence is moderate and primarily limited to specific proprietary formulations, with benefits most established for respiratory health and innate immune markers.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pure Encapsulations PureDefense with NAC | 87 A | $1.90 |
| 2 | NutraBio Immune | 83 A- | $1.33 |
| 3 | NOW Foods Immune PostBiotic | 82 A- | $0.36 |
| 4 | Pure Encapsulations Aller-Essentials | 81 A- | $1.11 |
| 5 | Pure Encapsulations PureDefense chewables | 81 A- | $0.68 |
| 6 | Country Life Gut Connection Cognitive Balance | 75 B+ | $1.26 |
| 7 | Doctor's Best Immune Support, 500 mg, 60 Veggie Caps | 72 B | $0.40 |
| 8 | Healthy Origins EpiCor 500mg | 72 B | $0.53 |
| 9 | Pure Encapsulations PureDefense Collagen w/ Bone Broth powder | 69 B | $2.90 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate) should I take?
The typical range is 500 mg daily. Studies typically use 8-12 weeks; longer-term safety data limited
When should I take EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate)?
Can be taken with or without meals; consistent daily timing recommended. Not required; may be taken with or without food.
Which form of EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate) is best?
Capsule. Other forms in the catalog: Powder.
Is EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate) safe?
Commonly reported: Generally well-tolerated, Rare: mild gastrointestinal symptoms, Rare: allergic reactions in yeast-sensitive individuals.
Which EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate) supplement scores highest?
Pure Encapsulations PureDefense with NAC, at 87/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Immune system support
- Respiratory health
- Antioxidant activity
- Immune response enhancement
How it works
- Modulation of innate immunity via pattern recognition receptors
- Beta-glucan and polysaccharide immune signaling
- Antioxidant activity from phenolic compounds and metabolites
- Potential enhancement of natural killer cell and neutrophil function
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500 mg daily
- Timing
- Can be taken with or without meals; consistent daily timing recommended
- With food
- Not required; may be taken with or without food
- Duration
- Studies typically use 8-12 weeks; longer-term safety data limited
- Special populations
- Generally recognized as safe; limited data in pregnancy, nursing, or immunocompromised individuals
Forms
- Capsule· 70/100
- Powder· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Rare: mild gastrointestinal symptoms
- Rare: allergic reactions in yeast-sensitive individuals
Contraindications
- Confirmed Saccharomyces cerevisiae allergy or intolerance
- Severe immunocompromise (theoretical caution with immune-stimulating compounds)
- Caution with candida or active yeast infections (consult healthcare provider)
Products containing EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list EpiCor® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentate) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Moderate preliminary evidence from several RCTs showing benefits for respiratory symptoms and immune markers; however, studies are mostly industry-sponsored, limited in scope, and use the proprietary EpiCor formulation specifically, limiting generalizability to other S. cerevisiae fermentates. Evidence grade does not reach B due to small sample sizes and narrow clinical endpoints.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Immune
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.