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Miso

1 tbsp (17g) per serving.

2.2g
protein per serving
Calories
34
per serving
Protein density
6.5
g per 100 cal
Calorie cost
15.5
cal per 1g protein
To hit 30g protein
14 tbsp
238g · 476 cal

Macro breakdown

Protein2.2g(25%)
Carbs4.3g(49%)
Fat1g(26%)
Fiber0.9g

Tips to maximize protein

1.Add miso to warm (not boiling) liquids to preserve live cultures
2.Use as a marinade base for tofu, fish, or chicken-fermentation adds flavor
3.Whisk into salad dressings for umami and probiotics
4.Choose unpasteurized miso from the refrigerated section
5.Darker miso (red, brown) is more intensely flavored. White miso is milder

Probiotic Benefits

Probiotic Strains
Aspergillus oryzae (koji mold-used in fermentation)Lactobacillus acidophilusTetragenococcus halophilus
CFU Count

Varies-traditionally aged miso has more beneficial compounds

Finding Live Cultures

Unpasteurized miso (usually refrigerated) contains live cultures. Pasteurized miso still offers fermentation benefits but fewer live probiotics.

Cooking Note

Boiling kills probiotics. For miso soup, dissolve miso into warm (not boiling) broth at the end of cooking. Adding to finished dishes preserves cultures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if made correctly. Dissolve miso into warm broth (not boiling) at the end of cooking to preserve probiotics. Traditional preparation keeps cultures alive.

All miso is nutritious. Darker varieties (red, brown) are aged longer with more complex flavors and potentially more beneficial compounds. White miso is milder and less salty.

Yes-about 630mg per tablespoon. However, you typically use small amounts. Some research suggests miso's sodium may not raise blood pressure like table salt does, though more studies are needed.

Yes-in Japan, many people eat miso soup daily. Studies associate regular miso consumption with lower rates of certain diseases. Use moderate amounts due to sodium content.

Refrigerated miso lasts 1+ years. It may darken over time but remains safe. The salt acts as a preservative. Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination.

Nutrition data sourced from USDA FoodData Central.

Last verified: 2026-02-15