Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ)

Common questions

Is Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ) healthy?

Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ) scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This marinated beef bulgogi is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, which limits its score potential.

How processed is Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ)?

Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ) is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ)'s score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Beef chuck, Onion, Black pepper count in its favor; Defatted soybean 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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Marinated Beef Bulgogi (Korean BBQ)

Kirkland Signature
Bioengineered
65 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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Near you

Kirkland Signature is carried at Costco stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Costco
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This marinated beef bulgogi is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, which limits its score potential. While it contains beneficial ingredients like beef chuck, onion, and black pepper, the presence of defatted soybean, a processed ingredient, detracts from its nutritional quality. The product's ingredient list is relatively clean, but the processing level and inclusion of processed soy prevent it from achieving a higher score.

Key ingredients 12

Beef chuck
Good

Beef chuck is a source of high-quality animal protein with essential amino acids. It provides important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Grass-fed or organic beef would enhance its nutritional profile.

Risks

Excessive consumption of red meat may be linked to certain health risks, such as increased cholesterol levels.

Benefits

Rich in protein and essential nutrients that support muscle growth and overall health.

Onion
Good

Onion is a natural ingredient that adds flavor and nutrients to dishes. It contains antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health. Fresh onions provide more benefits compared to processed forms.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may support heart health.

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Black pepper
Good

Black pepper is a spice that enhances flavor and may have health benefits. It contains piperine, which can improve nutrient absorption. Its use in moderation adds both flavor and potential health benefits.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and may improve nutrient absorption.

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Pear bulgogi sauce
Neutral

Pear bulgogi sauce typically contains sugars and flavorings that enhance taste. It may include natural sugars from pears, which are less concerning than refined sugars. The sauce adds flavor but does not significantly impact nutritional value.

Risks

May contain added sugars which can contribute to calorie intake.

Benefits

Provides flavor enhancement with potential natural sugars from pears.

Soy sauce
Neutral

Soy sauce is a fermented condiment that adds umami flavor to dishes. It contains sodium, which can be a concern in high amounts. Fermentation may offer some probiotic benefits, but these are minimal in soy sauce.

Risks

High sodium content can contribute to increased blood pressure if consumed excessively.

Benefits

Adds flavor and depth to dishes with minimal caloric impact.

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Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and to adjust the consistency of the product. It is a neutral ingredient with no nutritional impact. Ensures proper texture and moisture in the final product.

Benefits

Essential for hydration and maintaining product consistency.

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Wheat
Neutral

Wheat is a common ingredient that provides carbohydrates and some protein. It can be a concern for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Whole wheat offers more fiber and nutrients compared to refined wheat.

Risks

Contains gluten, which can be problematic for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein content.

See more about Wheat →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for seasoning and preserving food. It is essential for flavor but can contribute to high sodium intake. Moderation is key to avoid potential health issues related to high sodium consumption.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

See more about Salt →
Fermented
Neutral

Fermentation is a process that can enhance flavor and potentially add probiotic benefits. It is used to develop complex flavors in foods like soy sauce. The health benefits of fermentation are minimal in this context.

Benefits

May offer minimal probiotic benefits and enhances flavor complexity.

Ethyl alcohol
Neutral

Ethyl alcohol is often used as a solvent or preservative in food products. It evaporates during cooking, leaving minimal impact on the final product. Its presence is primarily functional rather than nutritional.

Benefits

Acts as a solvent and preservative, enhancing shelf life and flavor extraction.

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Baking soda
Neutral

Baking soda is used as a leavening agent and to tenderize meat. It is a common ingredient in cooking with no significant nutritional impact. Its use is primarily functional to improve texture.

Benefits

Improves texture and tenderness of meat.

See more about Baking soda →
Defatted soybean
Bad

Defatted soybean is a processed form of soy that removes oils, often used as a protein source. It lacks the complete amino acid profile found in animal proteins. Processing can reduce nutritional quality and introduce anti-nutrients.

Risks

May contain anti-nutrients that affect mineral absorption and potential allergens.

Benefits

Provides a plant-based protein source, though less complete than animal proteins.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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