Is Miso Soup High in Sugar? What the Nutrition Facts Say

January 11, 2026 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a standard bowl of miso soup contains around 2 to 3 grams of sugar, indicating that it is not high in sugar. However, this simple fact can be misleading, as the exact sugar content depends heavily on the type of miso paste and additional ingredients used in the preparation.

Quick Summary

The sugar content in miso soup is generally low but can fluctuate based on ingredients and miso paste variety. Lighter, sweeter misos typically contain more sugar than darker, longer-fermented types. Overall, it remains a low-calorie, nutritious choice for most diets.

Key Points

Low Overall Sugar: A standard serving of miso soup typically contains 2-3 grams of sugar, making it a low-sugar food choice for most diets.
Paste Type is Key: The sugar level is highly dependent on the miso paste. Lighter, sweeter misos like white (shiro) have more sugar, while darker, longer-fermented types like red (aka) or Hatcho miso contain less.
Added Ingredients Affect Carbs: Simple additions like seaweed and tofu maintain low sugar levels, but adding sweet root vegetables will increase the carbohydrate and sugar count.
Beware of Packaged Products: Instant miso packets or pre-made versions may contain added sugars or flavorings, so checking nutritional labels is important.
Probiotic Benefits: As a fermented food, miso soup is rich in beneficial probiotics that support gut health and digestion.
Keto-Friendly Potential: With the right miso paste and ingredients, miso soup can be adapted for a keto diet, as it is relatively low in net carbs.

Miso Paste: The Primary Factor in Sugar Content

Miso soup's sugar level is predominantly determined by its main ingredient: miso paste. This fermented soybean paste varies widely depending on its base ingredients, fermentation time, and regional style. Shorter fermentation and the addition of rice result in sweeter, lighter miso, while longer fermentation creates a saltier, more robust flavor with less sugar.

Comparing Miso Paste Varieties


Miso Type (General)	Sugar Content	Fermentation Period	Flavor Profile	Best For
White (Shiro) Miso	Highest sugar	Shortest	Mild, sweet, creamy	Light soups, dressings, marinades
Yellow (Shinshu) Miso	Moderate sugar	Medium	Balanced, slightly earthy	Versatile, everyday cooking
Red (Aka) Miso	Lower sugar	Longer	Pungent, salty, robust	Hearty stews, glazes, braised dishes
Barley (Mugi) Miso	Lower sugar	Longer	Earthy, savory, complex	Soups, hearty grain dishes
Soybean-Only (Hatcho) Miso	Lowest sugar	Longest	Intense, dark, umami	Robust soups, marinades

How Ingredients Impact Sugar Levels

While miso paste is the core component, other ingredients can also affect the final sugar count of your soup. A traditional miso soup made with dashi, tofu, and seaweed typically remains low in sugar. However, certain additives can change this dynamic.

Vegetables: Adding sweet root vegetables like carrots, pumpkins, or sweet potatoes will naturally increase the sugar and carbohydrate content. Stick to leafy greens, mushrooms, and daikon for a lower sugar profile.
Packaged Products: Instant miso soup packets or pre-made restaurant versions may contain additional sweeteners or flavor enhancers. Always check the nutrition label for transparency on sugar and sodium levels.
Mirin: This sweet rice wine is a common ingredient in Japanese cooking. While only a small amount is used, it can contribute a small amount of sugar. A low-sugar or sugar-free mirin alternative can be used if needed.

A Standard Low-Sugar Miso Soup Recipe

To ensure your miso soup is as low in sugar as possible, follow this simple preparation guide. The key is to avoid high-sugar ingredients and opt for a low-sugar miso paste.

Prepare a Dashi Base: Heat water with kombu (kelp) and dried shiitake mushrooms to create a umami-rich, zero-sugar broth. For a non-vegan dashi, use bonito flakes, but note that this does not impact the sugar level.
Add Ingredients: Bring the dashi to a simmer. Add your chosen low-sugar, low-carb ingredients like cubed silken tofu, wakame seaweed, and thinly sliced scallions.
Dissolve Miso: Never boil miso paste, as this kills the beneficial probiotics and can flatten the flavor. Turn off the heat before adding the paste. Scoop a dark or yellow miso paste onto a ladle or mesh strainer, and whisk it into the broth until fully dissolved.
Serve Immediately: Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and nutritional benefits.

Miso Soup and Health

Beyond its low sugar content, miso soup offers several health benefits due to its fermented nature and nutrient profile.

Probiotics for Gut Health: The fermentation process in miso paste introduces beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
Rich in Nutrients: Miso contains essential vitamins and minerals, including manganese, vitamin K, copper, and zinc.
Antioxidants: Soy isoflavones in miso act as antioxidants, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress.
Blood Sugar Control: Some studies have linked regular miso consumption with improved blood sugar control and lower insulin resistance, particularly in women.

While miso soup can be high in sodium, many brands now offer lower-sodium options. For individuals monitoring salt intake, it is recommended to choose a low-sodium version and consume in moderation. The health benefits, especially from probiotics and vegetable additions, make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Conclusion

So, is miso soup high in sugar? The answer is generally no, with a typical bowl containing very little sugar. The primary factor influencing the sugar content is the type of miso paste used, with darker, longer-fermented varieties having the lowest amounts. Additions like tofu and seaweed keep the sugar low, while sugary root vegetables can increase it. For those concerned about sugar, choosing a darker miso and checking labels on pre-packaged options are the most effective strategies. The soup's probiotic benefits and rich nutrient profile cement its place as a healthy, flavorful dietary choice. To find a quality, low-sugar miso paste, consider exploring options from reputable Japanese food suppliers.

Visit this page for high-quality miso options from The Japan Store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, miso soup can be a good choice for diabetics, especially when made with a darker miso and low-carb vegetables. Some studies suggest regular miso consumption may even help manage blood sugar, particularly in women.

Yes, miso soup contains some carbohydrates, as the paste is made from fermented soybeans and grains. However, the amount is relatively low per serving. For stricter diets like keto, choosing a soybean-only miso (Hatcho) can help minimize carb intake.

Traditional miso paste typically does not contain added sugar. However, some instant miso products or certain restaurant preparations might add sweeteners for flavor. It is best to check the label or ask when dining out.

Hatcho miso, which is made exclusively from soybeans and fermented for a long time, has the lowest sugar content. Other darker, longer-fermented misos also have less sugar than their lighter, sweeter counterparts.

Yes, it can. To make miso soup keto-friendly, use a dashi made with kombu and bonito flakes (or a vegetable broth for a vegan version), and choose low-carb additions like tofu, wakame seaweed, and mushrooms. Be mindful of the miso paste's carb content.

Boiling miso paste can destroy the delicate probiotics and flavor compounds. To preserve its nutritional benefits, the paste should be dissolved into the dashi after the heat has been turned off.

Miso soup can aid weight management because it is low in calories and promotes feelings of fullness, which can help prevent overeating. Its probiotic content also supports digestion and metabolism.