Ingredient

Napa cabbage

Positive in 2 products

What is Napa cabbage?

Napa cabbage is a type of Chinese cabbage that belongs to the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. It is characterized by its long, oblong shape and crinkled pale green leaves. Typically, it is grown in nutrient-rich soil and harvested before it reaches full maturity to ensure a tender texture.

Napa cabbage is used in a wide variety of dishes, often featuring in soups, salads, and fermented products like kimchi due to its subtle flavor and crunchy texture. Nutritionally, it is low in calories and contains vitamins C and K, along with fiber and antioxidants, which are generally considered beneficial for health. Scientific evidence supports its nutritional benefits, though, like all vegetables, its impact depends on overall diet context.

When you see it on a label, it's often part of a mixed vegetable dish or used to add crunch and lightness to prepared meals.

Commonly found in: soups, salads, kimchi, stir-fries, spring rolls, cabbage rolls

Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune function and bone health.
  • Contains fiber, which supports digestive health.
  • Low in calories, making it a good choice for weight management.
FDA

Napa cabbage is considered a safe and nutritious food, generally recognized as safe (GRAS) under FDA guidelines.

Research

Research supports that napa cabbage is nutritious, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Vegan

Napa cabbage is plant-derived and entirely suitable for vegan diets.

Sources: Vegetables and Fruits: A Guide to Good Health

Scout's take

Napa cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins C and K. It is a good source of dietary fiber and antioxidants, which support digestive health and immune function. Fermentation enhances its probiotic content, promoting gut health.

The case for

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting overall health and digestion. Fermentation increases beneficial probiotics.

from the analysis of Mother In Laws Kimchi

More from Scout's analyses

Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, low calories, contains antioxidants

from the analysis of Oh Gee Harvest Kimchi

Found in 2 products

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