Ingredient

Shrimp Paste

Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use shrimp paste primarily as a flavor enhancer, adding a deep umami taste …

What is Shrimp Paste?

Shrimp paste is a fermented condiment made from small, raw shrimp that are crushed into a paste. It is a staple in Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisine, known for its strong, pungent, and savory flavor.

Is Shrimp Paste vegan?

No. Shrimp Paste is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.

Is Shrimp Paste a major allergen?

Shrimp paste is derived from shellfish, which is one of the 9 major food allergens recognized by the FDA.

What is Shrimp Paste used for?

Manufacturers use shrimp paste primarily as a flavor enhancer, adding a deep umami taste to dishes.

Is Shrimp Paste safe?

Shrimp paste is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended use as a food ingredient.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use shrimp paste primarily as a flavor enhancer, adding a deep umami taste to dishes. It is commonly found in Asian sauces, marinades, curry pastes, and stir-fry seasonings.

Health notes

Shrimp paste is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended use as a food ingredient. It is a source of sodium, and high sodium intake can be a concern for some individuals. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated shrimp paste, but they have not set a specific numerical limit for its consumption.

Allergen info

Shrimp paste is derived from shellfish, which is one of the 9 major food allergens recognized by the FDA.

Foods that contain Shrimp Paste

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

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.