Does しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) contain dairy or gluten?

It contains gluten (wheat) due to the hydrolyzed protein and soy sauce. It does not contain dairy.

Is しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) good for weight loss?

It is high in protein and fiber, which can aid satiety, but the added sugar and sodium may hinder strict weight loss goals if not portioned carefully.

Where can I buy しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto)?

This product is available at Japanese grocery stores, Asian supermarkets, and online retailers like Amazon or Japanese food specialty sites.

Is しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children, but the strong fermented smell and taste can be polarizing. It also contains added sugar and MSG, so moderation is recommended.

Is しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) Kosher?

Yes, しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) is Kosher. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no animal-derived products or non-Kosher additives present, making it a suitable choice for those observing Kosher dietary laws. However, while it passes the Kosher test, there are other dietary considerations regarding gluten and sugar content that are worth exploring.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a Japanese fermented soybean product like しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) is Kosher, we must look closely at the fermentation agents and the seasoning sauce. The core of the product is SOYBEAN and NATTO-YEAST. Soybeans are inherently plant-based and Kosher. The specific yeast used in natto fermentation, Bacillus subtilis natto, is a bacterium, not an animal product, which keeps the base product compliant.

The potential red flags usually hide in the sauce. Fortunately, the SAUCE ingredients listed here—specifically HYDROLYED PROTEIN (WHEAT) and SOY SAUCE—are derived from plant sources. While wheat is a grain that requires checking for insect infestation (which is generally negligible in processed sauces), it is not non-Kosher in itself. The presence of PERILLA (Shiso) and SEAWEED (aosa) are purely plant-based and pose no issues.

It is important to note that while the product is Kosher, it does contain WHEAT and SUGAR. For those keeping strictly Kosher for Passover, wheat products are restricted during that holiday. Additionally, the inclusion of MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE (MSG) and ETHANOL (alcohol) might be a concern for some specific dietary sects, though the alcohol content is likely trace and used as a solvent or preservative.

Nutritional Value

Natto is widely celebrated as a superfood, and しそ海苔なっと (Shiso Nori Natto) carries many of those benefits. It is high in plant-based protein and rich in Vitamin K2, which is essential for bone health. The fermentation process also creates beneficial enzymes that aid digestion. However, the added GLUCOSE & FRUCTOSE SYRUP and SUGAR in the sauce increase the calorie count and glycemic load.

If you are monitoring your sodium intake, be aware that SOY SAUCE and SALT contribute significantly to the total sodium content. While it is a fermented food, the added sugar makes it more of a savory treat than a zero-calorie health food. It fits well into a balanced diet, but portion control is key due to the high sodium and sugar levels in the seasoning packet.