Tag: Real vs fake wasabi

Over 95% of the 'wasabi' sold outside of Japan is actually a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and green food dye. For those wondering, does wasabi have any benefits, the crucial distinction is between this imitation paste and authentic *Wasabia japonica*.

Over 95% of the wasabi consumed outside of Japan is not authentic wasabi but an imitation made primarily from horseradish. The safety of this popular green paste largely depends on whether you are consuming the genuine article or its common impostor, and in what quantity.

Did you know that true Japanese wasabi, unlike many imitation pastes, contains powerful isothiocyanate compounds that have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and anti-clotting properties? Research suggests that these bioactive components, primarily found in genuine *Wasabia japonica*, may indicate that wasabi is good for your heart.

Over 95% of the 'wasabi' served in restaurants outside of Japan is an imitation made from horseradish, mustard, and green food coloring. This fact makes answering the question, 'Is eating wasabi good for you?' more complex, as the health benefits are almost exclusively tied to the rare, expensive, and authentic *Wasabia japonica* plant.

Authentic wasabi contains potent compounds known as isothiocyanates (ITCs), which have been shown to have antimicrobial properties against common foodborne bacteria like *E. coli* and *Staphylococcus aureus*. This is why wasabi has been traditionally paired with raw fish, but the question remains: **Does wasabi help with food poisoning** effectively, and is the wasabi you're eating genuine?

Over 95% of the 'wasabi' served outside of Japan is actually a mixture of horseradish, mustard, and green food coloring. This critical distinction is key to answering the question: is wasabi good for you, or is its nutritional reputation just a myth?