Jongga

Kimchi

Barcode 8801052102375

Scanned 24 times by Nomi users

Yes — Kimchi is ultra-processed.

The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains industrial additives and highly processed ingredients, specifically high fructose corn syrup (an industrially processed sugar) and monosodium glutamate / MSG (E621, a flavor enhancer). According to the NOVA criteria and the provided rules, the presence of these ingredients makes the overall product UPF, even though most other ingredients are minimally processed foods or traditional ferments.

Ingredients

No ultra-processed markers

OK

cabbage (71.20%)
OK

radish

A small or medium root vegetable with crisp white flesh and peppery flavor, used raw in salads, pickles, and cooked dishes.
OK

red pepper powder

Ground dried red peppers used as a spice to add heat and color to dishes; forms part of many chili blends.
OK

rice paste (rice powder, water)
OK

high fructose corn syrup
OK

salt

Common mineral compound (sodium chloride) used as a seasoning and preservative across cuisines.
OK

garlic chives
OK

onion

A common bulb vegetable used as a base flavor in many cuisines. Crisp, pungent, sweet when cooked.
OK

leek

A vegetable in the onion family with a mild, sweet flavour, often used as a flavour base or side dish.
OK

fermented anchovy sauce (anchovy)
OK

salt monosodium glutamate (e621)
OK

fermented shrimp sauce (shrimp, salt)
OK

lactic acid bacteria
OK

ginger

A pungent, aromatic rhizome used fresh or dried in cooking and beverages.

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Other fruit & vegetables Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Kimchi

Is Kimchi ultra-processed?

Yes — Kimchi by Jongga is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains industrial additives and highly processed ingredients, specifically high fructose corn syrup (an industrially processed sugar) and monosodium glutamate / MSG (E621, a flavor enhancer). According to the NOVA criteria and the provided rules, the presence of these ingredients makes the overall product UPF, even though most other ingredients are minimally processed foods or traditional ferments.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.