Not all kimchi is equal: Austrian test reveals surprising quality gaps

A recent test by the Austrian Consumer Information Association (VKI) has reviewed 13 kimchi products for quality, taste, and nutritional value. The popular fermented dish, known for its gut health benefits, showed mixed results across different brands. While some stood out for their live cultures and flavour, others fell short on salt levels or acidity.

Out of the 13 kimchi products tested, only three contained live lactic acid bacteria—the strains linked to gut health. These top performers came from an organic supermarket, the Billa grocery chain, and a specialty store. All three were unpasteurised, preserving their natural fermentation benefits.

Eight products received a 'good' rating overall, with another five deemed average. Taste tests favoured eight brands, but some failed to meet standard salt or acidity levels. No contamination with heavy metals was detected in any of the samples. Under the Nutri-Score system, most kimchi products scored a **C**. Only Spar and Oriental Kimchi achieved the highest grade of **A**, while KoRo earned a **B**. The study also found no clear advantage in imported kimchi over European-made versions.

The VKI test highlights that not all kimchi products deliver the same benefits or quality. While some brands excelled in taste and live cultures, others struggled with basic standards. Consumers looking for gut-friendly options should check labels for live bacteria and nutritional ratings before purchasing.