Kimchi
Fermented cabbage with live lactic acid bacteria and a chilli-driven depth of flavour.

Nutrition per 100 g
Standardised to 100 g of kimchi for fair comparison. Typical serving: 100 g — 23 kcal per 100 g serving.
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per serving (100 g) | Per 100 kcal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 23 kcal | 23 kcal | 100 kcal |
| Protein | 1.7 g | 1.7 g | 7.4 g |
| Carbohydrate | 3.9 g | 3.9 g | 17 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g | 0.5 g | 2.2 g |
| Fibre | 1.6 g | 1.6 g | 7 g |
Figures are typical values and vary with variety, preparation and brand.
Micronutrients
Vitamins and minerals per 100 g of kimchi, with a typical serving and FDA Daily Value for adults.
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per serving (100 g) | % DV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamins | |||
| Vitamin A | 5 µg | 5 µg | <1% |
| Vitamin C | 0 mg | 0 mg | 0% |
| Vitamin D | 0 µg | 0 µg | 0% |
| Vitamin E | 0.11 mg | 0.11 mg | <1% |
| Vitamin K | 43.6 µg | 43.6 µg | 36% |
| Thiamin | 0.01 mg | 0.01 mg | <1% |
| Riboflavin | 0.21 mg | 0.21 mg | 16% |
| Niacin | 1.1 mg | 1.1 mg | 7% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.21 mg | 0.21 mg | 12% |
| Folate | 52 µg | 52 µg | 13% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0 µg | 0 µg | 0% |
| Choline | 15.5 mg | 15.5 mg | 3% |
| Minerals | |||
| Calcium | 33 mg | 33 mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 2.5 mg | 14% |
| Magnesium | 14 mg | 14 mg | 3% |
| Phosphorus | 24 mg | 24 mg | 2% |
| Potassium | 151 mg | 151 mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 498 mg | 498 mg | 22% |
| Zinc | 0.22 mg | 0.22 mg | 2% |
| Selenium | 0.5 µg | 0.5 µg | <1% |
| Copper | 0.024 mg | 0.024 mg | 3% |
Source: USDA FoodData Central — Cabbage, kimchi
% DV uses FDA Daily Values for adults. Nutrients that USDA does not report for this entry are omitted. Values vary with variety, preparation and brand.
Why eat kimchi?
- Live cultures in unpasteurised jars from the chilled aisle.
- Adds huge flavour for almost no calories.
- Keeps for months once opened.
How to include it
- Serve a spoonful alongside eggs or rice.
- Fry into fried rice at the end of cooking.
- Stir into a broth with tofu and noodles.
Things to consider
- High in salt — a few tablespoons is a serving.
- Shelf-stable pasteurised versions have no live cultures.
- Often contains fish sauce or shrimp paste; check for vegan versions.
Educational content. This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Speak to a qualified health professional about your individual circumstances.
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