Schizosaccharomyces is a genus of fission yeasts found in fermented beverages, fruit juices, dried fruits, molasses, and cereals. S. pombe is used to make sorghum beer and is a model organism in cell biology. In food plants these yeasts can be either useful fermenters or spoilage organisms in sugary products, so their management depends on context. Their distinctive division by fission sets them apart from budding yeasts. Its simple cell cycle made it a favourite of geneticists. Food uses are secondary to its scientific fame.