How Many Carbs Are in Yum Sauce?

January 5, 2026 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, the carbohydrate content in Yum Yum sauce can range from as little as 1 gram per serving in some brands to several grams in others. The exact number depends heavily on the specific brand and recipe used, primarily due to the sugar and ketchup content.

Quick Summary

The carb content of Yum Yum sauce varies by brand and recipe, with some commercial versions containing minimal carbs while others have more due to added sugars.

Key Points

Variable Carb Count: The number of carbs in Yum Yum sauce varies widely depending on the brand and specific recipe.
Ingredient Impact: Added sugars, corn syrup, and ketchup are the primary contributors to a higher carb count.
Commercial Variations: Some commercial brands, like Makoto, have low carb counts (around 1g per tbsp), while others can be significantly higher.
Homemade Advantage: Making Yum Yum sauce at home allows for total carb control by using sugar-free ingredients and keto-friendly sweeteners.
Dietary Considerations: Low-carb and keto dieters should always check nutrition labels on commercial products or opt for a controlled homemade version.

Understanding Carbohydrates in Yum Yum Sauce

Yum Yum sauce is a popular condiment known for its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. It is a staple at many Japanese hibachi-style restaurants. While its creamy texture might suggest a high-fat content (which is true), its carbohydrate count is not always consistent and depends largely on the specific ingredients and preparation. A key factor is the use of sugar and ketchup, which are primary sources of carbohydrates in many recipes. For those on a low-carb, keto, or other specific diet, understanding this variability is crucial for making an informed choice.

Why the Carbohydrate Content Varies

The difference in carb content for Yum Yum sauce is a direct result of ingredient selection. The core of most Yum Yum sauce recipes is a mayonnaise base, which is naturally very low in carbohydrates. However, the other components are where the carb count can diverge significantly. High-fructose corn syrup, regular sugar, and sweetened ketchup are common additions that can quickly drive up the total carbohydrate count. Brands aiming for a sweeter flavor or using cheaper ingredients may contain more of these high-carb components.

Commercial vs. Homemade Yum Yum Sauce

The most dramatic difference in carb count is often seen when comparing store-bought and homemade versions. With a homemade recipe, you have complete control over the ingredients. This allows for simple, effective substitutions to manage carbohydrate intake, such as using sugar-free ketchup or a keto-friendly sweetener.

Common High-Carb Ingredients to Watch For

Sugar: Added for sweetness in many commercial brands.
Corn Syrup: Another common sweetener that adds significant carbs.
Ketchup: Traditional ketchup contains sugar and adds to the carb count.

Common Low-Carb Substitutions for Homemade Sauce

Sugar-Free Ketchup: Swapping traditional ketchup for a sugar-free alternative significantly reduces carbs.
Keto Sweeteners: Using monk fruit or erythritol instead of sugar allows for the same sweetness with zero or minimal carbs.
Tomato Paste: A low-carb alternative to ketchup for color and flavor.

A Comparative Look at Yum Yum Sauce Carbs

The following table highlights the nutritional differences across various Yum Yum sauce options. Note that serving sizes can vary, so always check the label on your specific product.


Sauce Type	Serving Size	Approximate Total Carbs	Calories	Key Differentiators
Makoto Yum Yum Sauce	1 tbsp	~1g	68	Low-carb commercial option.
Ying's Yum Yum Sauce	1 tbsp	~3g	48	Higher carbs due to ingredients like sugar.
Weis Markets Yum Yum Sauce	2 tbsp	~5g	-	Moderate carb count, includes sugar.
Typical Homemade (with sugar)	2 tbsp	~9g	133	High carbs if using standard ketchup and sugar.
Keto Homemade Version	2 tbsp	~0.8g	146	Very low carb by using sugar substitutes.

Finding the Right Yum Yum Sauce for Your Diet

If you are mindful of your carbohydrate intake, knowing how to find a suitable Yum Yum sauce is key. First, always read the nutrition label on any store-bought product. Look for the Total Carbohydrate and Sugars values. Avoid products where sugar, corn syrup, or high-fructose corn syrup are listed high on the ingredient list. Alternatively, consider making your own sauce at home. This allows you to have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a minimal carbohydrate count without sacrificing the delicious taste.

Some popular commercial brands offer versions with lower carbs. For instance, Makoto Yum Yum sauce is often noted for its low carb count. However, product formulations can change, so a quick check of the label is the safest method. For those strictly following a keto diet, making a homemade version with a keto-friendly sweetener and sugar-free ketchup is the most reliable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of how many carbs are in Yum Yum sauce has a varied answer. While some brands offer a very low carbohydrate option (around 1g per serving), others can contain several grams, primarily due to added sugars and ketchup. The best approach for managing carb intake is to be a vigilant label reader or to make a homemade version, which gives you complete control over the ingredients and allows for simple, low-carb substitutions. By understanding the key factors influencing the carb count, you can enjoy this tasty condiment while staying on track with your dietary goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some versions of Yum Yum sauce are keto-friendly, particularly if they are homemade using sugar substitutes like erythritol and sugar-free ketchup. Many commercial brands contain added sugar and are not suitable for a strict ketogenic diet.

The carb count varies significantly, but a typical tablespoon can range from 1g in some low-carb commercial versions like Makoto's to over 3g in other brands or recipes.

The main carbohydrate-contributing ingredients are sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, and ketchup, which are often added to commercial sauces for sweetness.

Yes, a homemade version can be significantly lower in carbs because you can control the ingredients, replacing sugar and regular ketchup with sugar-free alternatives.

To reduce carbs, use sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste, and opt for a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia instead of granulated sugar.

Yum Yum sauce is generally high in calories and fat due to its mayonnaise base, regardless of its carb count. A single tablespoon can contain around 70 calories.

While both can be high in fat, the carb count varies. Ranch dressing often has minimal carbs, but some varieties may contain added sugar. You should always compare nutrition labels, as Yum Yum sauce's carb count depends heavily on the brand and recipe.