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Fish sauce

Common questions

Is Fish sauce healthy?

Fish sauce scores 80/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This fish sauce is made from anchovies, salt, water, and a small amount of sugar.

How processed is Fish sauce?

Fish sauce is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Fish sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Anchovies counts in its favor; Sugar is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Fish sauce

80 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$4.82 · 6.76 fl oz · $0.71 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Condiments
Summary

This fish sauce is made from anchovies, salt, water, and a small amount of sugar. The anchovies provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, while the fermentation process enhances nutrient bioavailability. Although it is a processed product, the ingredient list is relatively clean with minimal additives, contributing to a favorable score.

Key ingredients 4

Anchovies
Good

Anchovies are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They are also high in protein and provide essential nutrients like calcium and iron. The fermentation process used in fish sauce production enhances the bioavailability of these nutrients.

Risks

Some individuals may have allergies to fish, which could pose a risk when consuming anchovies.

Benefits

Anchovies provide omega-3 fatty acids that support cardiovascular health and are a good source of protein and essential minerals.

See more about Anchovies →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in fish sauce. It is a necessary component for the fermentation process. However, excessive consumption of salt can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Salt is essential for the fermentation process and enhances the flavor of the sauce.

See more about Salt →
Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and carrier in the production of fish sauce. It helps in the extraction of flavors during fermentation. Water itself does not contribute any nutritional value.

Benefits

Water is essential for the fermentation process and helps in dissolving and distributing flavors.

See more about Water →
Sugar
Bad

Sugar is added to balance the salty flavor of fish sauce, but it is a refined carbohydrate with no essential nutrients. Excessive sugar consumption is linked to various health issues, including obesity and metabolic syndrome. In fish sauce, it is used in small amounts, but still contributes to overall sugar intake.

Risks

Excessive sugar intake can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

Benefits

Sugar helps balance the flavor profile of fish sauce, making it more palatable.

See more about Sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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