Is Soy Sauce Vegan? Everything You Need To Know

Soy sauce is one of the most widely used condiments in the world. 

From stir-fries to sushi, marinades to dipping sauces, it adds that unmistakable salty umami flavor we all love. 

But if you follow a vegan diet, you might be wondering whether or not it’s vegan. 

At first glance, it seems simple – it’s just fermented soybeans, wheat, water, and salt. Most of the time, that’s true. 

But depending on the brand and how it’s made, there are a few things vegans should know before pouring it on freely. 

In this guide, we’ll look at what soy sauce is made of, when it might not be vegan, and which US brands are safe to choose.

So, Is Soy Sauce Vegan?

In most cases, yes. Traditional soy sauce doesn’t use animal products. However, there are a few reasons why some soy sauces may not be considered vegan:

Flavored Soy Sauces

Some soy sauces are blended with ingredients like fish sauce, bonito extract, or oyster flavoring. These are not vegan.

Additives and Preservatives

While most additives in soy sauce are plant-derived, some can be animal-based. For example, certain “natural flavors” could include animal products, though this is rare.

Cross-Contamination

Some factories that produce soy sauce also make fish sauce or oyster sauce. If you’re strict about cross-contact, look for brands that are clearly certified vegan.

Sugar Concerns (US-specific)

Some sweeter soy sauces or varieties like kecap manis use sugar. In the US, refined cane sugar may be processed with bone char. If you avoid this, opt for organic or certified vegan products.

Common Additives and Their Vegan Status

• Caramel color (E150): Made by heating sugar; vegan.
• Lactic acid (E270): Usually plant-derived; vegan.
• Citric acid (E330): Vegan.
• MSG (E621): Vegan.
• Preservatives (sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate): Synthetic; vegan.

Most mainstream soy sauces stick to just soy, wheat, salt, and water. Additives are more common in cheaper brands or low-sodium versions.

Gluten and Allergen Notes

Soy sauce usually contains wheat, unless it’s specifically gluten-free (like tamari). If you’re avoiding gluten, tamari is the best substitute. It’s made with little or no wheat, is naturally vegan, and has the same umami depth.

Vegan Soy Sauce Brands in the US

Here are some widely available vegan options:

• Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce: Vegan, though not gluten-free. Widely available.
• Kikkoman Gluten-Free Tamari Soy Sauce: Vegan and gluten-free.
• San-J Tamari (Gluten-Free): Certified vegan and gluten-free, brewed with 100% soybeans.
• Yamasa Soy Sauce: Vegan, traditional Japanese brand.
• Oceans Halo Organic Soy-Free Sauce: Certified vegan, made with seaweed and organic ingredients—soy-free alternative.
• Bragg Liquid Aminos: Not technically soy sauce, but a soy-based alternative that’s vegan and gluten-free.

Homemade Soy Sauce Alternatives

While making soy sauce at home is difficult (traditional fermentation takes months), you can make quick alternatives for recipes:

Simple Tamari Substitute:

• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1 tbsp miso paste
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Whisk together and use as a soy-free, vegan alternative when you need that savory kick.

How to Use Soy Sauce in Vegan Cooking

• Add depth to stir-fries and noodle dishes.
• Use in marinades for tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms.
• Whisk into dressings or dipping sauces.
• Drizzle over rice or grain bowls for quick flavor.

Final Thoughts

Soy sauce is almost always vegan, but flavored varieties or brands with added non-vegan ingredients can be exceptions. 

For peace of mind, stick to trusted vegan-certified brands like San-J or choose organic if you’re concerned about sugar processing. Tamari is also an excellent gluten-free option. 

With the right bottle in your pantry, you’ll have an easy way to add savory depth to countless vegan meals.

Up next: The lowdown on whether or not hoisin sauce is vegan.

Frequently Asked Questions