Food borne yeasts as DNA-bioprotective agents against model genotoxins

► Yeast strains isolated from Italian foods were identified as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Debaryomyces hansenii. ► Strains showed antigenotoxicity against 4-NQO and MNNG and DPPH scavenging activity. ► Antigenotoxicity correlated with modifications of genotoxin′s spectroscopic properties. ► Strains presented acid-bile tolerance and may thus be able to viably reach the gut. ► These food-borne yeasts may have beneficial health effects.