Does GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains gluten. The ingredient list includes Wheat Flour and Wheat. It does not appear to contain dairy ingredients.

Is GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce good for weight loss?

It is low in calories, but the added sugars (Rice Syrup, Sugar, Molasses) can hinder weight loss if consumed in large quantities.

Where can I buy GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce?

It is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, H-Mart, and online through Amazon.

Is GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce safe for kids?

It is generally safe, but it is spicy. The sugar content is also high, so it should be given in moderation.

Is GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce Halal?

No, GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce is not considered Halal. While it packs a punch of flavor, a close look at the ingredient label reveals the inclusion of distilled alcohol, which is strictly prohibited in Islamic dietary laws. If you are looking for a strictly Halal-certified spicy condiment, you will need to look elsewhere or opt for a homemade alternative.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the formulation. When analyzing GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce, the primary concern for Halal consumers lies in the specific components used to build that savory, umami-rich flavor profile. The sauce relies heavily on a base of Hot Pepper Paste, which is a fermented product common in Korean cuisine.

Within that Hot Pepper Paste (Gochugaru based), the label explicitly lists Distilled Alcohol. In the food industry, we use distilled alcohol for two main reasons: as a solvent to extract flavor compounds from spices (like the Oleoresin Capsicum and Oleoresin Paprika listed) and as a preservative to extend shelf life. While the alcohol is distilled—which theoretically removes impurities—the source of the alcohol is not specified as non-alcoholic (like vinegar). In strict Halal interpretation, any product containing alcohol, regardless of the quantity or the fact that it is used as an ingredient rather than a beverage, is considered Haram (forbidden).

Furthermore, the Hot Pepper Paste contains Wheat Flour and Wheat, making this product unsuitable for those with Celiac disease, though it is not flagged for gluten in the context of Halal certification. It is also worth noting that the Defatted Soybean Powder indicates a fermentation process that is generally permissible, but the alcohol remains the definitive dealbreaker here.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

alcohol

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, GOTCHU Korean Hot Sauce is relatively low in calories per serving, as it is primarily water and flavorings. However, the Sugar and Rice Syrup content contributes to the carbohydrate count. If you are monitoring your sugar intake, this sauce adds 'hidden' sugars that can accumulate quickly if you are generous with your portion sizes.

Regarding fats, the sauce is virtually fat-free, which is a positive attribute. The sodium content, derived from Salt and preservatives like Sodium Benzoate, is moderate but can add up if you consume multiple servings. It fits into a standard diet easily regarding calories, but the sugar and sodium levels suggest moderation is key for those with specific dietary restrictions like hypertension or diabetes.