Has your doctor told you to cut back on salt? Thanks to the growing amount of low-sodium options from top brands like Kikkoman and Yamasa, you don't have to sacrifice soy sauce. There are great, reduced sodium shoyu options that can help you stay within your daily limits but still let you savor that umami flavor with sushi, stir-fries, and all your favorite dishes.
We will share how to pick low-sodium soy sauces that ensure your meals stay packed with flavor minus the extra salt in our buying guide. Our guide features expert tips from food writer Dann Reid, who has years of experience in the food industry and selecting quality ingredients. We will also introduce a lineup of best-selling low-sodium soy sauces from sites like Amazon and more.
Quick List - Top Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
Dann got his first job in 1977 as a dishwasher at a YMCA camp. The food service industry appealed to him. Since that young age, he's been a head chef, a head baker, worked in grocery retail baking, and written three books (two were cookbooks and one a question and answer about being a chef). He's also learning about gluten-free cooking and baking.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
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People with certain health conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure may need to consume less salt in their diets. Medical doctors may instruct or recommend individuals with these conditions incorporate low-sodium food products.
In addition, people with family histories of problematic health conditions may proactively consume less salt in their diets to avoid future problems. Other individuals who take certain medications that make them retain water, such as steroids, may want to reduce their sodium intake to prevent further fluid retention.
Low-sodium soy sauce is a good option for people who need to limit their sodium intake for health reasons. However, for most people, the amount of sodium from soy sauce is likely negligible compared to their overall diet. Focusing on improving or adjusting your cooking to enhance umami flavors without the added sodium may be more beneficial for your health than simply switching to low-sodium soy sauce.
To choose a low-sodium soy sauce, you'll want to look at the product's label and consider the differences in taste, texture, and ingredients. Think about the type of recipe you'll be using the soy sauce for and evaluate the amount of sauce in the container.
Most regular soy sauces are around 1000mg per serving. While there is no official definition for low-sodium, most brands agree it is about 40% less, or 600mg per serving.
Manufacturers usually label low-sodium versions with the words “low sodium” or “reduced sodium.” While there are set definitions for terms like these in foods, they don't apply to condiments or sauces.
That means you'll probably have to find the normal sodium version of products and compare the sodium content per serving. A typical soy sauce will contain around 1000 milligrams per tablespoon, while low-sodium versions generally only contain about 600 milligrams per serving, and some contain less than that.
Further complicating matters is the fact that soy sauces can come in light and dark versions. Low-sodium soy sauces are not the equivalent of light soy sauces. Light soy sauces are just lighter in taste and thinner in color, while only low-sodium means the actual sodium content is lower.
Look at the list of ingredients and nutrition labels to compare the sodium per serving and where salt or sodium falls in the list. The higher salt or sodium is in the list, the more likely it is that it is not a low-sodium soy sauce. When ingredients are higher up, it means they make up a larger proportion of the sauce.
And, if you’re not able to find a low-sodium soy sauce at the grocery store, you can also dilute a regular soy sauce to reduce its content per serving.
Most soy sauce brands carry low-sodium versions. However, there can be some key differences between soy sauces from various countries of origin. Before choosing a brand and type, you’ll want to verify the type of dish you’re making and what type of soy sauce it calls for.
Japanese brand soy sauces like Koikuchi Shoyu and tamari are aromatic, making them pair well with sushi and sashimi.
Even when opting for low-sodium soy sauce, you can elevate your sushi and sashimi experience. Dark Japanese soy sauce and tamari are both excellent choices due to their aromatic qualities.
Japanese dark soy sauce is brewed for longer periods, resulting in a deeper, richer flavor profile that complements the delicate taste of seafood. The aromatic compounds formed during the fermentation process in these soy sauces enhance the overall sensory experience, making sushi or sashimi even more enjoyable. There are over 300 identified flavor components in soy sauce which means depending on the variety, the final fragrance profile can vary.
Tamari, much like dark soy sauce, has a deep color and rich flavor. Its unique 100% soy composition makes it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Tamari's balanced and complex flavor profile, with less emphasis on saltiness compared to regular soy sauce, pairs well with sushi and sashimi.
Flavors matter, but coloration on a fried rice or noodle dish is important. There is a correlation between how food looks and our enjoyment of it.
Generally speaking, darker soy sauces are best for marinating and adding color to foods like stir-fries and marinated noodles. Dark soy sauce is less salty and boasts a richer, almost molasses-like taste. This mellower flavor profile makes it ideal for coloring dishes without overpowering the overall taste.
The extended fermentation process of dark soy sauce deepens its color, lending a mahogany hue to broths, noodles, and fried rice. This rich color is particularly sought after in classic Asian noodle dishes, as it visually elevates the presentation.
Flavorwise, the slightly sweet and savory notes of dark soy sauce enhance marinades for noodles and rice, offering a subtle complexity that complements the natural flavors of the ingredients. It's worth noting that there are some regional variations within dark soy sauce. Dark Chinese soy sauces tend to have a sweeter taste than dark Japanese soy sauces. Dark Chinese soy sauces also tend to have a thicker consistency or texture.
It is a good sodium source for seasoning soups, salad dressings, dips, stews, and casseroles without overpowering the flavor. Soy sauce has more than just the sodium to offer; it has umami.
Light soy sauce is great for enhancing savory broths, dips, and salad dressings. Its amber color and thinner consistency make it ideal for these applications, as it disperses evenly and won't cloud your final product.
Light soy sauce is a valuable sodium source for seasoning without overpowering the delicate flavors in your cooking. But it's not just about the salt. It boasts a rich umami character, adding a depth of savoryness that goes beyond simple sodium.
Worth Noting: Light soy sauces, particularly those from Japan or China, tend to pack a saltier punch as their primary purpose is seasoning. Some varieties may even contain hints of mushroom or wheat, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used by the manufacturer.
Due to the heightened awareness of vegan, organic, and gluten-free preferences, many labels do indicate if they align with your needs, making the label an important reference.
To ensure your soy sauce aligns with your dietary needs, always check the label.
For vegan consumers, while traditionally brewed soy sauce is naturally vegan, some brands may add ingredients like whey or fish during processing. Look for labels that explicitly state "vegan" or avoid any animal-derived ingredients listed.
Wheat is a common ingredient in soy sauce, and its presence introduces gluten. Thankfully, with the rise of gluten-free preferences, many brands clearly label their products as "gluten-free" if applicable. If the label is silent on gluten content, it's best for gluten-sensitive individuals to err on the side of caution and choose a different soy sauce. Tamari is another great alternative to look into, as it is usually 100% soy-based.
Organic low-sodium soy sauce options are readily available in grocery stores and online retailers like Amazon. As with non-organic varieties, you may encounter a slightly limited selection, but there should still be enough options to find a low-sodium option if you have concerns about soybeans treated with pesticides or GMOs.
Soy sauce can come in a variety of sizes - 10 oz., 16 oz., and half gallons. 16 oz. is enough to use regularly without posing a storage issue.
Low-sodium soy sauces may come in various sizes. These sizes can include individual containers of 10 ounces or 16 ounces. You may also find packets, larger containers, and multipacks. If you use soy sauce on a semi-regular basis, around 16-ounce bottles should last you before the quality starts to deteriorate.
If you only use soy sauce occasionally at home, you might also want smaller containers, around 10 ounces. For more frequent cooking, larger containers like half gallons may be convenient and cost-effective if you have the storage space. Think about how much soy sauce you consume and what your recipes call for.
Always look at the expiration date on the packaging to help evaluate whether you’ll use the product in time. While an opened bottle of soy sauce can linger safely in your refrigerator for up to 3 years, for the best flavor experience, aim to use it within 6 months.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sodium Content | Amount | Origin | Certifications | Bottle Material | Style | |||||
1 | Kikkoman Less Sodium Soy Sauce | ![]() | A Popular, All-Purpose Favorite | 590mg | 64 oz. | USA | Kosher | Plastic | Japanese | |
2 | Amazon Happy Belly|Lite Soy Sauce | ![]() | A Highly Affordable Low-Sodium Option | 450mg | 15 oz. | Brazil | Plastic | unknown | ||
3 | Felicific Inc Soeos|Organic Low Sodium Soy Sauce | ![]() | Organic Chinese Dark Soy Sauce With Less Salt | 704mg | 16.2 oz. | China | Organic | unknown | Chinese | |
4 | Yamasa Shoyu Yamasa|Naturally Brewed Less Salt Soy Sauce | ![]() | A Light Soy Sauce Used by Professionals | 690mg | 5 oz. | USA | Kosher, Non-GMO | Glass | Japanese | |
5 | Mrs Taste Soy Sauce | ![]() | Significantly Less Sodium than Regular Soy Sauce | 180mg | 5.4 oz. | USA | Plastic | Japanese | ||
6 | Golden Orchid Ltd Kimlan|Authentic Chinese Soy Sauce | ![]() | A Less Salty Authentic Chinese Soy Sauce | 744mg | 20 oz. | Taiwan | Glass | Chinese | ||
7 | New Frontier Foods Inc. Ocean’s Halo|Organic No Soy Less Sodium Sauce | ![]() | A Natural, Allergy Friendly Low-Sodium Alternative | 310mg | 10 oz. | USA | Gluten-free, Vegan, Organic, Non-GMO | Glass | unknown | |
8 | Felicific Inc 52USA|Organic Low Sodium Soy Sauce | ![]() | Organic Option With Unique Flavor | 916mg | 16.2 oz. | China | Vegan, Organic | unknown | Chinese | |
9 | SEMPIO FOOD COMPANY Sempio|Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce, Less Salt | ![]() | Trusted Korean Soy Sauce With Reduced Salt | 680mg | 29.08 oz. | South Korea | Kosher, Non-GMO | unknown | Korean | |
10 | San-J Tamari 28% Less Sodium Soy Sauce | ![]() | Good for Gluten-Free Diets | 710mg | 20 oz. | USA | Gluten-free, Vegan, Organic, Kosher, Non-GMO | Glass | Japanese |
Pros:
Cons:
Kikkoman is a well-known brand of soy sauce that is widely available at most commercial grocery stores. The low-sodium version contains 37 percent less salt than the brand's regular dark soy sauce. This soy sauce is naturally brewed like the Kikkoman classic, boasting the same appetizing aroma and distinctive color. The salt is removed after fermentation to provide a fuller flavor profile.
The large 2-quart bottle is perfect for families or frequent users, providing a cost-effective option and reducing the need for frequent restocking. However, if you think the large bottle might pose a storage problem for you, there is also a reasonable 10 oz. option available.
Origin | USA |
---|---|
Certifications | Kosher |
Bottle Material | Plastic |
Style | Japanese |
Sodium Content | 450mg |
---|---|
Amount | 15 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
Amazon's Happy Belly Low Sodium Soy Sauce is a 15-ounce bottle of all-purpose seasoning containing 55% less sodium than their regular soy sauce. This makes it a good option at 450mg of sodium per serving for those watching their sodium intake while still enjoying the umami taste of soy sauce in various dishes.
The size is great for moderate users, especially at the low price, but heavy users may want to stock up or look for larger options. Most users mention it is good as a basic soy sauce, but it may not be the most tasty option on the list. It should be good for dipping, marinating, and adding a little extra flavor as a light soy sauce.
Origin | Brazil |
---|---|
Certifications | |
Bottle Material | Plastic |
Style | unknown |
Sodium Content | 704mg |
---|---|
Amount | 16.2 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
Soeos Organic Low-Sodium Soy Sauce is a healthier alternative to traditional soy sauce. Made with organic ingredients and a reduced sodium content, it allows you to enjoy the umami flavor of soy sauce while being mindful of your sodium intake. however, if you are cutting sodium for strict health reasons, this may not be the best option. It clocks in at 704mg of sodium per serving, which is a little higher than other options.
However, this dark Chinese soy sauce should be great for marinades, stir-fries, and all your flavorful needs. It comes in a nice-sized bottle that should last you a while with moderate use.
Origin | China |
---|---|
Certifications | Organic |
Bottle Material | unknown |
Style | Chinese |
Sodium Content | 690mg |
---|---|
Amount | 5 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
For those seeking a healthier soy sauce option without compromising on flavor, Yamasa's Reduced Sodium Shoyu is a great choice. This 5 fl oz. glass dispenser features a reduced sodium content (25% less than regular Yamasa) while retaining the brand's signature rich aroma, umami taste, and attractive red color. Made with high-quality, authentic ingredients, it's free from MSG, GMOs, and artificial preservatives. Do keep in mind that the sodium content is 690mg, a bit higher than some others.
However, this smaller bottle size might not be ideal for heavy users; in that case, don't worry. Yamasa also offers a 10 fl oz. version for those who use soy sauce more frequently.
Origin | USA |
---|---|
Certifications | Kosher, Non-GMO |
Bottle Material | Glass |
Style | Japanese |
Sodium Content | 180mg |
---|---|
Amount | 5.4 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
Mrs Taste's Sugar-Free Soy Sauce offers a healthier alternative to traditional soy sauce. This 5.4 oz bottle boasts a significant reduction in sodium with only 180mg per serving while aiming to maintain the classic soy sauce flavor. It also incorporates Himalayan Rose Salt, which the brand claims is more beneficial than regular salt, although the specific health benefits are not detailed.
While the smaller size may not be ideal for heavy users, this shoyu will be a great option for anyone who needs to reduce their sodium intake level significantly.
Origin | USA |
---|---|
Certifications | |
Bottle Material | Plastic |
Style | Japanese |
Sodium Content | 744mg |
---|---|
Amount | 20 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
This version of Kimlan's Chinese soy sauce is labeled as less salty and has 744 mg of sodium per tablespoon. The sauce does not contain any added preservatives and goes well with Chinese stir-fry and recipes with pork or chicken. While it doesn't boast the lowest sodium level, it is still significantly lower than regular soy sauce and lets you enjoy the taste of authentic Chinese soy sauce.
The 20 oz. size should work great for those who cook with soy sauce and not be an issue to store. Reviewers liked that they could use the sauce as a dip for egg rolls and dumplings. Some also used the sauce in chicken soup and as a marinade for various meats. This dark Chinese soy sauce should be your friend for cutting sodium and still cooking tasty Chinese cuisine.
Origin | Taiwan |
---|---|
Certifications | |
Bottle Material | Glass |
Style | Chinese |
Sodium Content | 310mg |
---|---|
Amount | 10 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
Ocean's Halo No Soy Sauce is a unique alternative to traditional soy sauce. Made with USDA Organic seaweed, this sauce is soy-free, vegan, and gluten-free. It offers a savory umami flavor with only 310mg of sodium per serving, 40% less sodium than leading low-sodium soy sauce brands. This makes it a suitable option for those with soy allergies or seeking a lower-sodium alternative.
Using a seaweed-based sauce might be a new experience for some, but it is a unique option if you cannot use other alternatives like coconut aminos. The 10 oz. bottle is great for light use, but heavy users will need to stock up for continued usage.
Origin | USA |
---|---|
Certifications | Gluten-free, Vegan, Organic, Non-GMO |
Bottle Material | Glass |
Style | unknown |
Sodium Content | 916mg |
---|---|
Amount | 16.2 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
This reduced-sodium soy sauce is brewed with organic soybeans and wheat for a more aromatic sauce. The 6-month long fermentation and 36-step brewing process result in a vibrant reddish-brown color that complements dishes while offering a strong, slightly sweeter flavor profile compared to regular soy sauce, according to the brand. We also like the perfect 16.2 oz. bottle it comes in for convenience and easy storage.
This option only slightly reduces the sodium content compared to other brands, with 916mg per serving. While it seems to maintain a lot of flavor, this option may be a skip if you need to take significant steps to cut sodium from your diet.
Origin | China |
---|---|
Certifications | Vegan, Organic |
Bottle Material | unknown |
Style | Chinese |
Sodium Content | 680mg |
---|---|
Amount | 29.08 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
Sempio's Less Sodium Soy Sauce is a healthier alternative to traditional soy sauce. This option boasts a 25% sodium reduction from its regular soy sauce, with 680mg per serving, while maintaining a rich taste and aroma. Made with high-quality ingredients through a meticulous fermentation process, it offers a versatile option for everyday meals, low-sodium diets, or even children's dishes.
This product should be great for cooking and comes in a 29 oz. bottle that should work well for frequent use. It may not be the most convenient for light users as there are no other sizes available.
Origin | South Korea |
---|---|
Certifications | Kosher, Non-GMO |
Bottle Material | unknown |
Style | Korean |
Sodium Content | 710mg |
---|---|
Amount | 20 oz. |
Pros:
Cons:
San J Tamari's reduced-sodium soy sauce contains 28 percent less salt at 710mg per serving than the brand's regular version. However, it does have more sodium than others on this list. The ingredients for this reduced-sodium soy sauce are only water, soybeans, salt, and alcohol (to preserve freshness).
This soy sauce is suitable for those with wheat and gluten allergies, in addition to people who follow kosher diets. It is 100% soy-based, so it still maintains the soy sauce taste and the umami of shoyu. It should be great with sushi and sashimi, in addition to multiple other uses for cooking and marinating. We also like the 20 oz. bottle, which is a great compromise between value and storage space.
Origin | USA |
---|---|
Certifications | Gluten-free, Vegan, Organic, Kosher, Non-GMO |
Bottle Material | Glass |
Style | Japanese |
Have you ever wondered if there's a good alternative to soy sauce, especially if you're watching your sodium intake or have a soy allergy? You might be surprised to learn about coconut aminos!
Made from coconut palm sap, coconut aminos offer a lower sodium option compared to traditional soy sauce. Sodium content can vary by brand, so make sure to check the nutritional facts.
What about the taste? Despite the name, coconut aminos don't actually taste like coconut, so you can enjoy their umami flavor without a hint of coconut.
If you are still on the fence about the low-sodium soy sauce options out there, take a look at BetterBody Foods' Organic Coconut Aminos. It has 45% less sodium than most soy sauces at 450mg of sodium per serving. It meets a variety of dietary needs as it is soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, kosher, and USDA-certified organic. The 16.9 fl oz. bottle is the perfect size for regular use in the kitchen or to dip your sushi in.
Eating healthier doesn't mean you have to compromise on flavor! Whether you're looking to lose weight or just eat healthier versions of your favorite foods, here are some suggestions to get you started.
No. 1: Kikkoman|Less Sodium Soy Sauce
No. 2: Amazon|Happy Belly|Lite Soy Sauce
No. 3: Felicific Inc|Soeos|Organic Low Sodium Soy Sauce
No. 4: Yamasa Shoyu|Yamasa|Naturally Brewed Less Salt Soy Sauce
No. 5: Mrs Taste|Soy Sauce
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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