What condiments are high in vitamin K?

November 7, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, just one tablespoon of dried thyme can provide 46 mcg of vitamin K, demonstrating that small additions can significantly boost your intake. This makes it particularly valuable to understand what condiments are high in vitamin K for those monitoring their diet.

Quick Summary

Several condiments, including fresh and dried herbs like parsley and basil, mayonnaise, soybean oil, and fermented foods like natto, are rich in vitamin K. The concentration varies greatly depending on the type and ingredients, so knowing the best sources can be highly beneficial for nutritional planning.

Key Points

Herbs: Dried herbs like thyme, basil, and parsley are among the most vitamin K-rich condiments, offering a high concentration in small, flavorful amounts.
Mayonnaise: Many brands of mayonnaise contain a good amount of vitamin K, typically derived from soybean or canola oil in the base.
Dressings: Salad dressings made with vitamin K-rich oils, such as ranch or caesar made with soybean or canola oil, can contribute to daily intake.
Natto: This Japanese fermented soybean paste is an exceptionally concentrated source of vitamin K2, providing a high dose in just one tablespoon.
Warfarin and Vitamin K: Individuals taking blood-thinning medication should monitor their intake of high-vitamin K condiments to maintain a consistent diet and consult their doctor.
Condiment Variety: While some condiments offer a massive amount of vitamin K per serving, others contribute smaller, yet still beneficial, amounts, allowing for varied options.

Herbs: The Powerhouse Condiments

Some of the most potent sources of vitamin K among all condiments are dried and fresh herbs. A small amount can pack a powerful punch, making them easy to sprinkle into meals for a quick nutritional boost.

Thyme: A top contender, providing an impressive 46 mcg of vitamin K per tablespoon when dried.
Basil: Dried basil is another excellent source, with about 35 mcg per tablespoon.
Sage: Ground sage offers 34 mcg per tablespoon, making it a great addition to many dishes.
Parsley: This popular garnish is also a standout, with 22 mcg per tablespoon when dried.
Cilantro and Oregano: Both contain good amounts of vitamin K, especially when fresh.

Using these herbs liberally in sauces, marinades, or as a finishing touch can be a simple way to increase your vitamin K intake without significant effort. Their versatility means they can be incorporated into a wide variety of cuisines.

Oils and Dressings Rich in Vitamin K

Because vitamin K is fat-soluble, it's often found in the oils used as bases for many common condiments. This is especially true for salad dressings.

Soybean Oil: A single tablespoon of soybean oil provides a solid 3.4 mcg of vitamin K. Since this oil is frequently used in commercially prepared salad dressings and mayonnaise, these products can become a source of the vitamin.
Canola Oil: Similar to soybean oil, canola oil is rich in vitamin K and is a primary ingredient in many bottled ranch dressings, which can contain a considerable amount of the nutrient.
Mayonnaise: As mentioned, mayonnaise is typically made with soybean or canola oil, and therefore can be a significant source of vitamin K. One tablespoon of mayonnaise contains approximately 22 mcg of vitamin K, nearly 20% of the recommended daily value.

For individuals on blood thinners like warfarin, managing consistent vitamin K intake is crucial. Homemade dressings using oils with lower vitamin K content, such as olive oil, can offer greater control.

Fermented and Miscellaneous Condiments

Beyond herbs and oil-based products, other condiments also contribute to vitamin K intake, particularly the less common but highly potent Vitamin K2 sources.

Natto: This traditional Japanese condiment made from fermented soybeans is an exceptionally rich source of vitamin K2, providing 150 mcg in just one tablespoon.
Sauerkraut: A fermented cabbage product, sauerkraut provides a good amount of vitamin K2, with roughly 2.75 micrograms per half-cup serving.
Marinara Sauce: A cup of marinara sauce can also be a source of vitamin K, containing around 35 mcg.

Vitamin K Content in Common Condiments Comparison


Condiment	Serving Size	Vitamin K Content	Primary Form	Notes
Dried Thyme	1 Tbsp	46 mcg	K1	Potent herb, great for seasoning
Mayonnaise	1 Tbsp	22 mcg	K1 (from oil)	Depends on the oil base used
Marinara Sauce	1 cup	35 mcg	K1 (from tomatoes)	Content varies by brand and recipe
Natto	1 Tbsp	150 mcg	K2	Highest concentration, from fermentation
Ranch Dressing	2 Tbsp	40.3 mcg	K1 (from oil)	Often uses canola or soybean oil

Choosing the Right Condiments for You

Selecting the right high-vitamin K condiments depends on your dietary needs and preferences. For a quick, concentrated source, dried herbs are a fantastic option. They offer high potency in small amounts and are low in calories. If you are looking for vitamin K2 specifically, fermented products like natto are your best bet. Oil-based condiments, such as mayonnaise and many salad dressings, provide vitamin K through their fat content, making them a more calorically dense choice.

Important Considerations

While increasing vitamin K intake is beneficial for most people, it's important to be mindful of your overall health. Those taking anticoagulant medication, such as warfarin, must maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K to avoid affecting their medication's efficacy. Drastic changes in consumption can alter blood clotting time. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

For more information on the interaction between warfarin and vitamin K, you can refer to resources from reputable medical institutions. Mayo Clinic provides detailed information on this topic.

Conclusion

From potent dried herbs to fat-soluble vitamins in mayonnaise and fermented foods, a variety of everyday condiments can significantly contribute to your vitamin K intake. By understanding the sources, you can strategically incorporate these items into your diet to support proper blood clotting and bone health. While herbs like thyme and basil offer the highest potency by volume, condiments like mayonnaise and certain dressings provide vitamin K through their oil base. Knowing these sources allows for informed and delicious dietary choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

While tomatoes contain some vitamin K, ketchup is not considered a significant source due to the small amounts typically consumed. You are unlikely to get a substantial level of this nutrient from standard servings of ketchup.

Natto, a Japanese fermented soybean paste, is arguably the highest vitamin K condiment, especially for vitamin K2. Among dried herbs, thyme is exceptionally high in vitamin K1.

The vitamin K content in mayonnaise is primarily based on the type of oil used in its production. If the oil is derived from soybeans or canola, it will contribute a good amount of vitamin K to the condiment.

You can add more herbs by sprinkling dried thyme, basil, or parsley onto salads, soups, and roasted vegetables. Fresh herbs can be blended into vinaigrettes or pesto.

The vitamin K content depends on the ingredients. A homemade dressing using fresh parsley and soybean oil could be high, while a store-bought one made with canola oil could also be. Choosing your ingredients lets you control the content.

Yes, sauerkraut is a source of vitamin K2. While it contains a moderate amount compared to some foods, it's a worthwhile addition for this nutrient.

For most people, consuming vitamin K through food is not harmful. However, those on blood-thinning medications like warfarin must maintain a consistent intake. A sudden, large increase could interfere with their medication's effectiveness.