Does Organic shoyu soy sauce contain dairy or gluten?

Based on the ingredients provided (water, organic soybeans, organic wheat, salt, organic alcohol), this sauce contains gluten due to the organic wheat. It does not contain dairy.

Is Organic shoyu soy sauce good for weight loss?

Yes, it is very low in calories (about 8-10 per tablespoon), so it adds flavor without adding significant calories. However, the high sodium content can cause water retention.

Where can I buy Organic shoyu soy sauce?

Organic shoyu soy sauce is widely available at major retailers like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and online through Amazon.

Is Organic shoyu soy sauce safe for kids?

It is generally safe for kids in small amounts, but the high sodium content is the main concern. There is no caffeine or sugar in the product.

Is Organic shoyu soy sauce Halal?

The short answer is NO. While organic shoyu soy sauce is made with high-quality, natural ingredients like organic soybeans and wheat, the addition of organic alcohol as a preservative renders it non-Halal. For those adhering to strict Halal dietary guidelines, this specific ingredient is a dealbreaker.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the chemistry of ingredients to determine their suitability for specific diets. Organic shoyu soy sauce is traditionally brewed, which distinguishes it from chemically hydrolyzed soy sauces. The fermentation process is natural and complex. However, the final ingredient list tells a specific story regarding compliance.

The primary ingredients—water, organic soybeans, organic wheat, and salt—are all perfectly Halal. These undergo a long fermentation process where the soybeans and wheat break down to create the rich umami flavor. The issue arises with the final ingredient: organic alcohol.

Manufacturers add alcohol (ethanol) to pasteurize the sauce and stabilize it, preventing spoilage and mold growth. While the amount is usually small (often less than 2%), Islamic dietary laws generally prohibit the consumption of alcohol in any quantity. Even if the alcohol evaporates during cooking, the initial presence in the product makes it non-compliant for strict Halal consumers. Additionally, while the ingredients listed here are clean, it is always vital to check for hidden additives like disodium inosinate or disodium guanylate in other brands, which can sometimes be derived from non-Halal sources, though not present in this specific ingredient list.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

alcohol

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, organic shoyu soy sauce is relatively low in calories, but it is dense in sodium. A single tablespoon typically contains between 8 to 10 calories, which is negligible for most diets. However, the sodium content is the real nutritional factor to watch, often ranging from 800mg to 900mg per serving.

Regarding macronutrients, it contains trace amounts of protein from the soybeans and minimal fat. It contains very little sugar, usually less than 1 gram per serving, making it a better option than many sweetened marinades. While it fits into low-calorie or low-carb diet limits, the high sodium content means it should be used in moderation, especially for those monitoring blood pressure.