Ingredient

Hoisin Sauce

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use hoisin sauce primarily as a flavoring agent, adding a complex sweet and …

What it is

Hoisin sauce is a thick, dark, sweet and savory sauce originating from China. It is typically made from fermented soybeans, garlic, chili peppers, and various spices, often including star anise and cinnamon. The sauce is cooked and blended to achieve its characteristic rich flavor and smooth texture.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use hoisin sauce primarily as a flavoring agent, adding a complex sweet and savory taste to dishes. It's also used as a glaze for meats, especially duck and pork, and as a dipping sauce. You can find it in marinades, stir-fries, and various Asian-inspired dishes.

Health notes

Hoisin sauce is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It contains sodium and sugar, so moderation is advised, especially for individuals managing blood pressure or blood sugar levels. JECFA has evaluated hoisin sauce and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). No significant health controversies are associated with its typical consumption.

Allergen info

Hoisin sauce often contains soy and wheat, which are among the FDA's major allergens. Wheat is also a source of gluten. Consumers with allergies to soy or wheat should check product labels carefully.

Products containing Hoisin Sauce

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YANGTZE Yangtze, Barbeque Pork Other Meats High in sodium — 35% DV per serving 173kcal 24.7Protein 4.9Fat 7.4Carbs YANGTZE Yangtze, Chinese Style Cured Barbbque Pork Other Meats High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 153kcal 24.7Protein 2.9Fat 7.1Carbs H.J. Heinz Company Spicy Szechuan Style Vegetables Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 98kcal 3.1Protein 2.4Fat 15.7Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Chicken Stir Fry Chicken Breast Strips With Carrots, Broccoli, Red Bell Peppers, Onions And Pasta In A Savory Garlic Soy Sauce Skillet Dinner, Chicken Stir Fry Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 106kcal 7.6Protein 1.5Fat 15.7Carbs Soy Vay, Marinade & Sauce, Hoisin Garlic, Hoisin Garlic Soy Vay Enterprises, Inc. Soy Vay, Marinade & Sauce, Hoisin Garlic, Hoisin Garlic Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces 263kcal 5.3Protein 7.9Fat 52.6Carbs Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. Beef And Vegetables In A Sweet Hoisin Sauce With Steamed Rice Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 49% DV per serving 115kcal 4.7Protein 2.1Fat 19.4Carbs Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. Garlic Sesame Chicken Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 48% DV per serving 118kcal 4.7Protein 3.2Fat 18.8Carbs January Foods Corp Chinese Style Barbecue Pork Cooked & Prepared High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 153kcal 24.7Protein 2.9Fat 7.1Carbs Tulape International Corp. Apricot Barbecue Sauce, Spicy Asian Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 219kcal 0Protein 6.2Fat 46.9Carbs Stonewall Kitchen Ltd. Classic Stir Fry Sauce Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces 167kcal 3.3Protein 10Fat 16.7Carbs Papa John's Salads & Produce Thai Chicken Wrap Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 37% DV per serving 173kcal 8.4Protein 4.7Fat 22.0Carbs Virginia Honey Company, Inc. Camp Fire Sauce Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 267kcal 0Protein 23.3Fat 10Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.