How Many Calories Are in Miko Miso Soup?

December 3, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a single packet of Miko brand instant miso soup typically contains between 25 and 35 calories. This makes it a very low-calorie and flavorful addition to any meal or a light snack.

Quick Summary

A serving of instant Miko miso soup is very low in calories, with the exact number depending on the variety and serving size. Key nutrients include protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, though sodium content is notable. The final calorie count is influenced by added ingredients like tofu, seaweed, and vegetables.

Key Points

Low Calorie Count: A standard packet of Miko instant miso soup typically contains only 25 to 35 calories.
Variable Calories: The exact calorie count depends on the specific variety, with options like Green Onion having slightly more calories.
Sodium Level: Miko instant miso soup is generally high in sodium, which should be considered by those with dietary restrictions.
Calorie Add-Ins: Extra ingredients like fresh tofu, vegetables, or seafood will increase the total calories of the prepared soup.
Nutrient-Dense: Despite being low-calorie, miso contains probiotics from fermentation, protein from soybeans, and essential minerals.

Miko Miso Soup Calories: A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

Many people turn to miso soup as a light and comforting option, and the Miko brand offers several popular instant versions. While a basic packet is consistently low in calories, the final number can fluctuate based on the specific variety and any added ingredients. Understanding the core nutritional information can help you make informed dietary choices.

Core Calorie Count of Instant Packets

The fundamental components of Miko instant miso soup—the dehydrated miso paste, dashi broth base, and any included dried garnishes—account for most of the packet's calories. The most common instant varieties from Miko land in a very low-calorie range, making them an excellent choice for those mindful of their caloric intake.

For example, the classic Miko Instant Miso Soup packet typically provides around 25 calories. Other varieties, such as those with additional ingredients, may have a slightly higher count. A packet of Miko Instant Miso Soup with Green Onion is listed with around 35 calories, reflecting the inclusion of extra dehydrated vegetables.

The Impact of Added Ingredients

While the base miso packet is light, many people like to enhance their soup with fresh additions. These extra ingredients will naturally increase the total calorie count. When preparing your soup, it's important to be aware of how these additions affect the nutritional profile.

Tofu: A popular addition, tofu adds a boost of protein and can increase calories. A small amount of silken tofu adds a modest number of calories but a significant amount of satisfying protein.
Seaweed (Wakame): Instant packets often include dried wakame, but adding fresh seaweed to your soup is a common practice. Wakame is extremely low in calories, so it won't drastically change the total.
Vegetables: Adding fresh vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or daikon radish can introduce more fiber and nutrients. The caloric impact is generally low, but it depends on the quantity and type of vegetable.
Noodles: For a more substantial meal, some people add noodles, which can significantly raise the calorie count. Ramen or udon noodles will add a much higher number of calories compared to a basic broth.

Miko vs. Homemade Miso Soup: A Calorie Comparison

Choosing between instant Miko miso soup and a homemade version allows for different levels of nutritional control. While instant versions are convenient and reliably low in calories, a homemade recipe offers complete control over ingredients.


Feature	Instant Miko Miso Soup	Homemade Miso Soup
Calorie Count (Basic)	~25-35 calories per packet	~35-50 calories per cup
Calorie Control	Fixed calorie count per packet.	Variable, depends on ingredients used.
Ingredients	Predetermined; typically includes dashi, paste, and dried garnishes.	Full control to add fresh ingredients like vegetables, seafood, and different types of miso.
Preparation Time	Fast, typically takes under 5 minutes.	Requires more time to prepare dashi and chop fresh ingredients.
Nutritional Profile	Consistent, but often higher in sodium due to processing.	Allows for lower sodium options and fresh nutrient boosts.
Flavor Profile	Standardized, savory umami taste.	Can be customized with different miso pastes (shiro, aka) and dashi bases.

Health Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are a key factor for many, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of miso soup. Even though Miko's versions are low in calories, they are not without important health aspects.

Sodium Content: All instant miso soups, including Miko's, tend to be high in sodium. Those on low-sodium diets should be mindful of their intake. Some studies, however, suggest that the salt in miso may not raise blood pressure in the same way as other forms of sodium, though more research is needed.
Probiotics: Miso paste is a fermented food, meaning it contains beneficial bacteria that support gut health. To preserve these live cultures, it is recommended not to boil miso paste when adding it to the soup.
Protein and Minerals: The soup offers a small but valuable amount of protein, along with minerals like manganese and copper. These come primarily from the fermented soybeans and seaweed ingredients.

The Final Word

Ultimately, Miko miso soup is a convenient, low-calorie option that fits well into many dietary plans. Its caloric content is minimal, but the sodium levels should be considered. By understanding the nutritional impact of different varieties and homemade options, you can enjoy this flavorful Japanese staple while remaining in control of your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie count varies slightly across different Miko brand instant miso soups. While a basic version may have around 25 calories, varieties with added ingredients like green onions can be slightly higher, at approximately 35 calories per packet.

Yes, Miko miso soup can be a healthy choice for weight loss due to its low-calorie content. Eating a low-calorie soup before a meal has been shown to help reduce overall calorie intake. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium content.

Yes, adding fresh tofu to Miko miso soup will increase the total calorie count. Silken tofu contributes protein and additional calories, though it remains a relatively light and nutrient-rich addition.

The sodium level in instant miso soup, including Miko, can be high, which is a concern for individuals on low-sodium diets. While some research suggests miso's salt has a different effect on blood pressure, mindful consumption is recommended.

Yes, miso paste is a fermented food that contains beneficial probiotics. For maximum benefit, it is best to add the paste to the soup at the end, after the heat has been turned off, to avoid killing the live bacteria with high temperatures.

Instant Miko miso soup is very consistent in its calorie count (~25-35 kcal), while homemade miso soup can vary more widely (~35-80 kcal per cup), depending on the ingredients used. Homemade versions also allow for better control over sodium.

The primary sources of calories in Miko miso soup are the carbohydrates and protein from the fermented soybean paste (miso) and the dashi stock base. Any dried garnishes also contribute to the final calorie count.