Legumes & beans

Soy sauce made from soy and wheat (shoyu), low sodium

FDC 172473tbsp (14 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 1 · -62 vs Legumes & beans median

The low sodium version of shoyu still scores 1 of 100 and, at 60th of 60, ranks last in Legumes & beans, though its per-serving nutrition holds up: 18% DV protein and 16% DV magnesium, both good.

Marketed for shoppers cutting back on salt, it is used exactly like regular shoyu, in marinades, dipping sauces, and stir-fry seasoning, with a tablespoon (14 g) as a typical amount. Its sodium figure of 3600 mg per 100 g is meaningfully lower than the standard soy sauces in this set, though it is still a concentrated source, so measuring rather than free-pouring remains the practical habit.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around soy sauce made from soy and wheat (shoyu), or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 9.1 g · 59%Carb 5.6 g · 37%Fat 0.3 g · 4%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories57 kcal3%
Total fat0.3 g0%
Saturated fat0.04 g0%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium3600 mg157%
Carbohydrate5.6 g2%
Dietary fiber0.7 g3%
Sugars0.5 g
Protein9.1 g18%
Potassium352 mg7%
Calcium30 mg2%
Iron1.4 mg8%
Magnesium69 mg16%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E0.41 mg3%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 172473

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein18% DV
Magnesium16% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the legumes & beans median

Nutrient density1 vs 63 median
Protein / 100 g9.1 vs 21 median
Fiber / 100 g0.7 vs 5.4 median
Sodium / 100 g3600 vs 203 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Soy sauce made from hydrolyzed vegetable proteinDensity 1 vs 1Soy sauce made from soy and wheat (shoyu)Density 1 vs 1Soy sauce made from soy (tamari)Density 1 vs 1

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Low-sodium shoyu is brewed the same way as regular shoyu, from soybeans and wheat, but processed afterward to reduce its salt content while keeping the familiar savory-sweet flavor. It fills the same roles as standard shoyu: a dipping sauce for sushi and dumplings, a seasoning stirred into stir-fries and simmered dishes, or a base for marinades, though some cooks add a touch more of it to compensate for the milder saltiness compared to regular soy sauce. It's a straightforward swap in any recipe that calls for standard soy sauce, since the flavor profile is close enough that most dishes don't need adjusting beyond the amount used.

A tablespoon (14 g) has 57 calories, and per 100 g it delivers 18% DV protein and 16% DV magnesium. At 3600 mg sodium per 100 g, it runs noticeably lower than regular shoyu's typical 5000-plus mg, making it a way to keep the flavor of soy sauce in a dish while pouring it a bit more generously into soups, marinades, or a bowl of rice. Store it the same way as regular soy sauce, sealed in the pantry before opening and refrigerated afterward, and give the bottle a shake before pouring since some settling can occur over time.

Frequently asked questions about soy sauce made from soy and wheat (shoyu)

How many calories are in low-sodium shoyu?

A tablespoon (14 grams) has 57 calories.

Is low-sodium shoyu actually lower in sodium?

Yes, it has 3600 mg of sodium per 100 grams, notably less than regular shoyu's typical amount.

How do you use low-sodium shoyu?

The same way as regular soy sauce, as a dipping sauce, marinade base, or stir-fry seasoning.

View the USDA source record