Ingredient

Koji Starter

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Koji starter is used to break down starches and proteins in food, creating complex …

What it is

Koji starter is a culture of beneficial microorganisms, primarily the mold *Aspergillus oryzae*. It is grown on a substrate like rice, barley, or soybeans. This process is fundamental in the production of many traditional Asian fermented foods.

Why it's used

Koji starter is used to break down starches and proteins in food, creating complex flavors and aromas. It acts as a natural flavor enhancer and tenderizer, adding umami and sweetness. It is commonly found in soy sauce, miso, sake, and various marinades and sauces.

Health notes

Koji starter is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. The microorganisms in koji are considered beneficial for digestion and nutrient absorption by some, though scientific consensus on specific health benefits at typical intake levels is still developing. JECFA has evaluated *Aspergillus oryzae* fermentation products and has not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified).

Allergen info

Koji starter itself is not a major allergen. However, if it is grown on a substrate like wheat or soy, the final product may contain allergens or gluten from that substrate. Always check product labels for specific allergen information.

Products containing Koji Starter

Compare products →
Sort by: Sugar Protein Sodium Calories
Broth, Miso Ginger TRADER JOE'S Broth, Miso Ginger Other Soups High in sodium — 28% DV per serving 6kcal 0.4Protein 0Fat 0.8Carbs Korean BBQ Sauce & Marinade, Korean BBQ FODY Korean BBQ Sauce & Marinade, Korean BBQ Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 78kcal 3.1Protein 3.1Fat 9.4Carbs Hy-Vee, Inc. Steamable Asian Vegetables Broccoli, Sugar Snap Peas, Carrots, Yellow Carrots, Edamame & Red Peppers In A Premium Citrus Sauce, Asian Vegetables In A Premium Citrus Sauce Frozen Vegetables 71kcal 3.1Protein 1.0Fat 11.2Carbs Kingston Marketing Co Miso Broth, Miso Canned Soup High in sodium — 39% DV per serving 8kcal 0.4Protein 0.2Fat 1.2Carbs Ahold USA, Inc. Asian Style Chicken Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 119kcal 7.3Protein 6.2Fat 7.9Carbs Genji, Inc. Mai, Ginger Misco Dressing, Marinade & Cooking Sauce, Marinade & Cooking Sauce Salad Dressing & Mayonnaise 467kcal 3.3Protein 50Fat 6.7Carbs Genji, Inc. Mai, Miso Dressing Marinade & Cooking Sauce, Spicy Ginger, Spicy Ginger Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 467kcal 3.3Protein 50Fat 6.7Carbs Fingerprint America Alaskan Salmon, Miso Glazed Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 85kcal 6.0Protein 1.6Fat 9.9Carbs Nestle USA Inc. Chinese Style BBQ Sauce, Char Siu Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 114kcal 2.9Protein 4.3Fat 14.3Carbs Ahold USA, Inc. White Corn, Red Peppers & Edamame In A Coconut Miso Sauce Frozen Vegetables 88kcal 3.5Protein 1.3Fat 16.8Carbs FishPeople, Inc Teriyaki Ginger Keta Salmon Frozen Fish & Seafood High in sodium — 22% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 33% DV per serving 129kcal 16.5Protein 3.5Fat 7.1Carbs Nestle Usa-Frozen Food Division Gochujang Cauliflower, Roasted Radishes, Broccolini & Carrots, Red Quinoa & Chickpeas, Riced Cauliflower With Chopped Cashews, Spicy Frozen Vegetables High in sodium — 41% DV per serving 123kcal 3.4Protein 3.4Fat 19.6Carbs
Water (88 products) Salt (83 products) Soybeans (76 products) Rice (72 products) Sea Salt (62 products) Sugar (59 products) Aspergillus Oryzae (56 products) Soy Sauce (52 products) Wheat (50 products) Ginger (49 products)

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.