Common questions

Is Kimchi healthy?

Kimchi scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. The presence of maize syrup, a highly processed sweetener, detracts from the overall healthiness of this product.

How processed is Kimchi?

Kimchi is NOVA Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kimchi's score?

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

Jongga Fermented Vegetables Kimchi

Wildbrine Probiotic Mild Kimchi with Turmeric 18 Ounce -- 6 per case.

Wildbrine

$6.65

Medium Spicy Kimchi

Sunja's Oriental Foods Inc

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Kimchi

Name: Kimchi
Brand: Sun Hee

Sun Hee

Fair

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0

Harmful ingredients 1

Owned by Surya Foods

Category Fermented Vegetables

Summary

The presence of maize syrup, a highly processed sweetener, detracts from the overall healthiness of this product. While kimchi is typically a minimally processed food, the inclusion of maize syrup introduces unnecessary added sugars, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues. Despite its traditional benefits, the processing level is affected by this ingredient, reducing its score.

Key ingredients 1

Maize syrup

Bad

Maize syrup is a sweetener derived from corn that is often used as a cheaper alternative to sugar. It is highly processed and can contribute to excessive sugar intake, which is linked to various health issues. Unlike natural sweeteners, it lacks nutritional benefits and can lead to increased calorie consumption.

Risks

High consumption of maize syrup can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased risk of metabolic disorders.

Processing

Group 1 · Minimally processed

Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

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