Understanding the Two Types of Bragg Aminos
Bragg Live Food Products is a well-known brand in the natural foods space, often associated with healthy living. However, when it comes to their amino products, there is a common misconception that all are certified organic. In reality, the company produces two distinctly different types of aminos, each with its own sourcing and certification. By breaking down the details of each, consumers can understand the crucial differences.
Bragg Liquid Aminos (Soy-Based)
This is the company's original, all-purpose liquid seasoning. It is a highly-concentrated protein source derived from soybeans. The key point to understand is that despite its healthy reputation, the soy-based Bragg Liquid Aminos is not a certified organic product.
Instead of being organic, this product is proudly verified by the Non-GMO Project. It's a common point of confusion for shoppers who may see the 'Non-GMO' label and mistakenly assume it equates to 'organic.' These are two very different certifications, with Non-GMO verification only confirming that the soybeans used were not genetically engineered.
Key characteristics of the soy-based aminos include:
- A proprietary process that uses soy protein to create the liquid seasoning.
- A deep, savory, umami flavor profile that is a popular alternative to traditional soy sauce.
- No added salt, though it contains naturally occurring sodium from the soybeans.
- Gluten-free and vegan.
Bragg Organic Coconut Liquid Aminos (Soy-Free)
In contrast, Bragg also offers a certified organic alternative for those looking to avoid soy or simply prefer organic products. The Bragg Organic Coconut Liquid Aminos is explicitly labeled with the USDA organic seal, confirming its organic status.
This product is crafted from different ingredients altogether. Its base is the organic coconut blossom nectar, combined with organic apple cider vinegar and Balinese sea salt. The sourcing and ingredients allow it to achieve the full organic certification that the soy-based version lacks. It is a fantastic option for individuals with soy allergies or those who are following a Paleo or Whole30 diet.
Notable features of the coconut-based aminos are:
- A milder, slightly sweeter flavor profile compared to its soy counterpart.
- Significantly lower in sodium than the soy-based liquid aminos and traditional soy sauce.
- Naturally soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan.
Certification: Organic vs. Non-GMO
The distinction between organic certification and Non-GMO Project verification is crucial for consumers to grasp when looking at the Bragg products. An organic certification requires that ingredients are grown and processed according to strict standards that protect soil and water quality, minimize synthetic materials, and avoid genetic engineering. Non-GMO Project verification, by contrast, only guarantees that no genetic engineering was used, and does not require adherence to all other organic farming practices.
This means that the non-organic soy aminos could still be made with soybeans grown using certain synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, whereas the organic coconut aminos were produced under stricter, more comprehensive standards. The difference in these labels is what ultimately determines the 'organic' status of the product.
| Feature | Bragg Liquid Aminos (Soy-Based) | Bragg Organic Coconut Liquid Aminos |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Non-GMO Verified Soybeans | Organic Coconut Blossom Nectar |
| Organic Status | No (Non-GMO Verified only) | Yes (USDA Certified Organic) |
| Soy-Free | No (Contains soy) | Yes (Made from coconut) |
| Flavor | Savory, Umami | Milder, Slightly Sweet |
| Processing | Not Fermented (hydrolyzed soy protein) | Fermented Coconut Sap |
| Sodium Content | Contains naturally occurring sodium (can be high) | Significantly lower sodium |
How to Choose the Right Bragg Aminos
Your choice between the two Bragg products will depend on your personal health goals and dietary restrictions. Here are a few points to consider:
- For the budget-conscious: The soy-based liquid aminos is generally more affordable and widely available.
- For soy-free or Paleo diets: The organic coconut aminos is the clear winner, as it contains no soy and is paleo-friendly.
- For a milder, sweeter flavor: The coconut version is a better fit, making it excellent for dressings and glazes.
- For strict organic followers: Only the coconut aminos will meet the requirements of an organic diet.
- For those watching sodium: The coconut aminos typically has a much lower sodium content compared to the soy alternative.
For a detailed comparison of different seasoning sauces, including liquid aminos and soy sauce, see this article from EatingWell.
Conclusion: Read the Label Carefully
In summary, the question of whether Braggs aminos are organic has two distinct answers depending on the product. While Bragg Liquid Aminos (soy-based) is not organic, it is Non-GMO. Bragg Organic Coconut Liquid Aminos is indeed certified organic and is a soy-free alternative. The key is to check the label for the specific product you're considering. This simple step will ensure you are selecting the aminos that best align with your dietary principles, whether you prioritize organic certification, avoiding soy, or controlling sodium intake. Both offer a versatile, umami-rich seasoning, but their ingredients and certifications are not interchangeable.
