Joybuy Insights

Choosing the Right Soy Sauce: Our 2026 Recommendations

By Joybuy

Updated June 2026

5 Min Read

Ever find yourself in the soy sauce aisle, wondering which bottle to choose? The selection is vast: light, dark, Japanese, Chinese, low-sodium, or gluten-free. The wrong choice can alter the taste of your dish or may not fit your dietary needs. This guide uses facts and product specifications to help you find the right soy sauce for your kitchen.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look for When Buying Soy Sauce

To make an informed decision, it's helpful to look at a few specific characteristics. These parameters will help you understand the differences and select the bottle that meets your culinary and dietary needs.

Soy Sauce Type and Origin

The base of soy sauce typically consists of soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. The proportions and brewing process determine the flavour and type.

Light Soy Sauce (Light/Usukuchi): This is the most common variety found in supermarkets. It has a thinner texture and a saltier taste. Suitable as an all-purpose seasoning in stir-fries, marinades, and as a dipping sauce.
Dark Soy Sauce (Dark/Koikuchi): This sauce is aged longer, often with added molasses or caramel. This results in a darker colour, a more viscous texture, and a richer, slightly sweeter flavour. Ideal for stews, braises, and adding colour to dishes.
Tamari: Traditionally, tamari is a by-product of miso production and is often made with very little or no wheat. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a gluten-free soy sauce. Its flavour is full-bodied and less salty than regular light soy sauce.

Salt Content

Soy sauce is known for its salty, umami flavour. For those looking to limit their salt intake, there are several options for less-salt soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce. Manufacturers use a special process to reduce the salt content, often by 30% to 50%, while preserving its signature flavour. Check the label, where the percentage of salt reduction is often stated.

Ingredients and Allergens

The ingredients list is an important source of information.

Gluten: Traditional soy sauce contains wheat and is therefore not gluten-free. If you are looking for a gluten-free soy sauce, choose a product specifically with a gluten-free label or a tamari that is guaranteed to be brewed without wheat.
Additives: Some soy sauces contain flavour enhancers, colourings, or preservatives. Naturally brewed sauces, like many varieties of Kikkoman soy sauce, typically contain only the basic ingredients.

Our Top Picks for 2026

Based on the criteria above, we have made a selection of soy sauces with distinct product features for different needs.

1. Kikkoman Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce - 250 ml

Why We Chose It This soy sauce was specifically developed as a gluten-free alternative. It is a tamari-style sauce, meaning it is made exclusively from soybeans, without the addition of wheat. This results in a pure, rich umami flavour.
Benefits
- Certified gluten-free, suitable for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Made from four basic ingredients: water, soybeans, salt, and spirit vinegar.
- Naturally brewed, which contributes to a complex and full-bodied flavour.
- The protein content is 10 g per 100 ml, which indicates a rich soybean base.
Who It's For This product is an excellent choice for home cooks on a gluten-free diet who don't want to compromise on the authentic taste of Japanese soy sauce. It is also suitable for those who prefer the pure flavour of a wheat-free soy sauce.

2. Kikkoman Less Salt Soy Sauce - 150 ml

Why We Chose It This Kikkoman variant targets the health-conscious consumer. According to the manufacturer, this less-salt soy sauce contains 43% less salt than the regular Kikkoman soy sauce. The flavour is preserved through the natural brewing process.
Benefits
- Significantly lower salt content (9.1 g per 100 ml) compared to many standard soy sauces.
- Retains the signature, naturally brewed flavour of Kikkoman.
- Free from artificial colours and flavours.
- Functions well as a direct salt substitute and general seasoning.
Who It's For Ideal for anyone who wants or needs to limit their salt intake without sacrificing umami flavour. A great all-rounder for daily use in a variety of dishes. Please note: this product contains wheat and is not gluten-free.

3. Healthy Boy Soy Sauce Less Sodium 40% - 250ml

Why We Chose It Healthy Boy is a well-known brand in Thai cuisine. This low-sodium soy sauce offers a 40% sodium reduction compared to their standard formula. It is a versatile sauce that complements both Asian and fusion dishes.
Benefits
- A 40% sodium reduction, resulting in a salt content of approximately 7.5 g per 100 ml.
- Free from artificial colourings.
- Suitable for a wide range of applications: as a dipping sauce, in marinades, or for stir-frying.
- Offers the classic savoury taste with a lower salt profile.
Who It's For A great option for home cooks who consciously choose less salt and appreciate the flavours of Southeast Asian cuisine. Like the Kikkoman Less Salt, this product contains wheat and is not gluten-free.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Soy sauce is a pantry staple in many kitchens. Besides buying soy sauce, are you looking for more inspiration or other essential products for your pantry? Take a look at our Reading Corner for more product guides and culinary ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between soy sauce and tamari? The main difference lies in the ingredients. Traditional soy sauce is brewed with soybeans and wheat. Tamari is traditionally made with only soybeans (or a very small amount of wheat), giving it a thicker texture and a richer, less salty flavour. As a result, tamari is often, but not always, a gluten-free soy sauce. Always check the label for a gluten-free certification.

2. Is low-sodium soy sauce a healthier choice? A less-salt soy sauce contains significantly less sodium than the regular version. For people who need to watch their salt intake, for instance due to high blood pressure, this can be a sensible choice. It allows them to add the desired umami flavour to dishes with a lower sodium content. The term "healthier" depends on individual nutritional needs and the overall diet.

3. How should I store soy sauce after opening? After opening, soy sauce is best stored in the refrigerator. The cold and dark environment helps to best preserve its flavour and colour. A well-sealed bottle will keep for many months in the fridge. Although it won't spoil quickly at room temperature, its quality (flavour and colour) can degrade over time.

Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer