Ingredient

Miso

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Miso is primarily used as a flavoring agent, adding a rich, umami taste to …

What it is

Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning produced by fermenting soybeans with salt and kōji (a type of fungus, usually Aspergillus oryzae). Other ingredients like rice, barley, or seaweed may also be included. The fermentation process can take from a few weeks to several years, developing a complex, savory flavor.

Why it's used

Miso is primarily used as a flavoring agent, adding a rich, umami taste to foods. It is a key ingredient in miso soup but is also used in marinades, dressings, sauces, and glazes for meats, vegetables, and tofu. Its salty and savory profile makes it a versatile seasoning.

Health notes

Miso is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of probiotics, which may support gut health, and contains various vitamins and minerals. JECFA has evaluated miso and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). Some studies suggest potential health benefits associated with fermented foods like miso, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Allergen info

Miso is derived from soybeans, which is one of the 9 FDA major allergens. Depending on the specific ingredients used, it may also contain wheat or barley, which contain gluten.

Products containing Miso

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FRESH & EASY Chinese BBQ Marinade & Sauce Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 133kcal 0Protein 0Fat 26.7Carbs TODAY'S KITCHEN Korean BBQ Beef Other Deli High in sodium — 36% DV per serving 157kcal 9.3Protein 3.6Fat 21.4Carbs TODAY'S KITCHEN Sesame Garlic Chicken Meal Starter, Sesame Garlic Chicken Other Deli High in sodium — 35% DV per serving 143kcal 10Protein 2.5Fat 20Carbs Broth, Miso Ginger TRADER JOE'S Broth, Miso Ginger Other Soups High in sodium — 28% DV per serving 6kcal 0.4Protein 0Fat 0.8Carbs Miso Ramen Flavor Noodle Dish With Miso, Soy & Vegetables, Miso Ramen KUSARI NOODLES Miso Ramen Flavor Noodle Dish With Miso, Soy & Vegetables, Miso Ramen All Noodles High in sodium — 59% DV per serving 329kcal 10.6Protein 2.9Fat 65.9Carbs RT Wholesale, LLC. Farm House Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 164kcal 3.8Protein 12.2Fat 10.8Carbs Kahiki Foods, Inc. General Tso's Chicken, Crispy Tempura Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 52% DV per serving 175kcal 10.2Protein 7.2Fat 18.7Carbs The Kroger Co. Tempura Chicken With General Tsao's Sauce, Spicy Sauce Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 46% DV per serving 207kcal 7.1Protein 10Fat 20.7Carbs 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 Dierberg's Markets, Inc. Sinature Sauce, Soy Ginger Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 34% DV per serving 129kcal 2.9Protein 0Fat 28.6Carbs 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 Edlin Foods Chinese Style Sweet-&-Tangy Dipping Sauce, Chinese Style Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 216kcal 0Protein 0Fat 59.5Carbs

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.