
(From left) ‘Low-Sugar Sun-Dried Gochujang’ made with low-sugar rice fermentation for a clean taste; ‘Low-Sugar Seasoned Ssamjang’ enriched with savory doenjang; ‘Low-Sugar Vinegared Gochujang’ with sweet-and-sour flavor and reduced sugar; and ‘Low-Sugar Bibimjang’ with a cool tang from dongchimi broth | Image provided by Sempio Foods
Korean food company Sempio Foods has released four new low-sugar jang products that retain deep, rich flavor while significantly reducing sugar content, drawing on 79 years of accumulated fermentation expertise.
As more consumers carefully examine sugar content in jang products amid the growing “slow-aging” trend, many have expressed disappointment that “low-sugar products don’t taste good.” In response, Sempio introduced four new offerings: ‘Low-Sugar Sun-Dried Gochujang,’ ‘Low-Sugar Seasoned Ssamjang,’ ‘Low-Sugar Vinegared Gochujang,’ and ‘Low-Sugar Bibimjang.’ All four products contain significantly less sugar compared to the top three market leaders in their category, with sugar content ranging from just 2g to 5g per 100g. Notably, ‘Low-Sugar Vinegared Gochujang,’ a summer favorite, has reduced sugar content by 90% compared to conventional versions.
‘Sempio Low-Sugar Sun-Dried Gochujang’ features Sempio’s proprietary “low-sugar rice fermentation technology,” which preserves the deep, clean flavor of rice while minimizing naturally derived sugars and calories. The product uses traditionally fermented whole soybean meju, offering a rich, homemade-style umami, and only uses 100% sun-dried chili powder without additional seasoning, delivering a clean and spicy kick.
‘Sempio Low-Sugar Seasoned Ssamjang’ is made using “tojang,” a traditional doenjang from aristocratic households, which provides a deep, savory flavor without any overpowering aromas. Ingredients like perilla powder, garlic, and sesame oil are blended in the golden ratio discovered by Sempio’s Korean Taste Research Team, allowing users to enjoy meat and vegetable wraps without adding extra seasoning. The product also uses 0-calorie allulose for a healthier sweetness.
‘Sempio Low-Sugar Vinegared Gochujang’ balances sweetness, acidity, and spiciness, unlike conventional versions. It combines expertly crafted gochujang with fermented vinegar made from Korean barley for a smooth tang, while adding pear and lemon juice for a naturally fresh flavor. Toasted sesame seeds and plenty of minced garlic provide depth, making it enjoyable on its own without additional condiments.
‘Sempio Low-Sugar Bibimjang’ features a refreshing taste made from dongchimi broth prepared with Korean vegetables, enhanced by the natural umami of fermented soybeans. Premium chili powder, onion, and garlic are blended in optimal proportions, allowing this single sauce to create light, healthy summer noodle dishes like konjac bibim noodles and makguksu.