mybest
Light soy saucesHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Light soy saucesHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 1
  • 10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 2
  • 10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 3
  • 10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 4
  • 10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian 5

10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian

If you're looking for a soy sauce that has a more subtle flavor, then you might want to consider buying light soy sauce. Often used as a dipping sauce, this versatile condiment can also be added to various dishes to enhance their umami flavor. Plus, consuming soy sauce in moderation can be good for your health since it has some antioxidant and anti-allergy properties.


But with so many different brands on the market, how can you choose the right one? Don't worry, as we've come up with a list of our highly recommended products and a handy guide on how to purchase the perfect light soy sauce for you—fact-checked and reviewed by registered nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales. 

Last updated 07/28/2025

Quick List - Top Light Soy Sauces

1

Kwong Cheong Thye

Light Soya Sauce Superior
Light Soya Sauce Superior

A Light Soy Sauce That Packs a Lot of Flavor and Contains Less Sodium

2

Lee Kum Kee

Japanese Style Soy Sauce
Japanese Style Soy Sauce

Smooth, Mellow Soy Sauce in Japanese Style Brew

3

Higashimaru

Usukuchi Shoyu
Usukuchi Shoyu

Light-Colored Japanese Soy Sauce for Delicate Dishes

4

Kikkoman

Freshly Pressed Soy Sauce
Freshly Pressed Soy Sauce

Unpasteurized Soy Sauce With Fresh, Delicate Umami

5

Marukin

Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce
Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce

Full-Bodied Japanese Soy Sauce With Balanced Flavor

Samantha Morales
Expert
Nutritionist-Dietitian
Samantha Morales

Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.

Samantha Morales's Profile
…Continue reading
Editorial Team
Guide
mybest
Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

Editorial Team's Profile
…Continue reading
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

Why You Can Trust Us

Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.

How to Choose a Light Soy Sauce – Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Choose between a natural or chemical brew.
  2. Check the country of origin.
  3. Go for light soy sauce with a short ingredients list.
  4. Select the right size based on your needs.
  5. Carefully inspect the packaging and the product itself.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
1

Choose Between a Natural or Chemical Brew

Choose Between a Natural or Chemical Brew

Naturally brewed light soy sauce follows the natural process of fermentation and is usually made from organic ingredients. As such, it takes a few months or even years to brew. This results in a product that is aromatic and complex in flavor when compared to chemical brews. 


Since this type of soy sauce is quite hard to find, manufacturers mention this distinguishing feature on the label. On the other hand, a chemically brewed light soy sauce can be produced within a few days and is known to be a cost-efficient way of manufacturing the product. These can be found in most supermarkets.


Also known as a non-brewed soy sauce, it is often mixed with hydrolyzed soy protein, flavorings, and other additives to mimic the flavor of a naturally brewed variant. This product is saltier and has a longer shelf life in contrast to natural brews.

2

Check the Country of Origin

Check the Country of Origin

Since different countries have different methods of processing their soy sauce, the taste would also differ. Below are some of the distinctions by country:


  • China: Light Chinese soy sauce is often brewed for a few weeks and contains wheat flour and, occasionally, sugar. Surprisingly, this results in a salty and dense product that is full of flavor. Compared to its Japanese counterpart, it is darker in color and thicker in consistency. 
  • Japan: If you prefer your soy sauce to be a bit sweeter, go for the Japanese light soy sauce variant. This product is usually brewed with roasted wheat and fermented for a few months, which gives it a distinct taste and a rounder flavor.  
  • Philippines: Light soy sauce made in the Philippines has a characteristic salty taste and a thinner consistency compared to its counterparts. Most commercially available brands use the chemical hydrolysis method to make the product more affordable. However, a select few still use the traditional method of fermenting soybeans.
  • Thailand: Light Thai soy sauce products have a distinct mild and soft flavor plus a syrupy consistency which makes it perfect as a dipping sauce. In line with this, it has the perfect blend of sweetness and saltiness, making it a fan favorite of locals and foreigners alike.
3

Go for Light Soy Sauce With a Short Ingredients List

Go for Light Soy Sauce With a Short Ingredients List

Basically, light soy sauce is made from soybeans, wheat, water, salt, and the occasional preservatives to make it last longer. Most manufacturers also try to produce soy sauce with less sodium to encourage consumers to live a healthier lifestyle. On that note, a product which contains too much chemicals or preservatives can be detrimental to your long-term health. 

4

Select the Right Size Based on Your Needs

Whether you're a home cook or an expert chef, choosing the appropriate size can help preserve the quality of the product and help you save on costs. Here's a handy guide on the difference.

A Compact Bottle Is Ideal for Smaller Households

A Compact Bottle Is Ideal for Smaller Households

If you’re cooking for a few people, a compact bottle is ideal since you’ll only need a small amount of light soy sauce per dish. Getting a fresh bottle every time will keep your dishes flavorful and appetizing. Plus, purchasing a small bottle of light soy sauce would prevent wastage since this product tends to lose its flavor when oxygenated.

Choose a Bigger Bottle If You’re Cooking for Many People

Choose a Bigger Bottle If You’re Cooking for Many People

For bigger households or commercial purposes, a bigger bottle would be more appropriate. This size is also recommended if you use light soy sauce in your dishes often. Also, purchasing a big bottle is more cost-efficient since you wouldn’t need to buy a new bottle every time it runs out.  

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Light Soy Sauces to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Filter

Products

Image

Click to purchase

Key features

Details

Brewing Process

Country of Origin

Ingredients

Net Weight

1

Kwong Cheong Thye

Light Soya Sauce Superior

Kwong Cheong Thye Light Soya Sauce Superior 1

A Light Soy Sauce That Packs a Lot of Flavor and Contains Less Sodium

Natural (Fermented) Brew

Singapore

Water, Soybeans, Wheat Flour, Salt

640 mL

2

Lee Kum Kee

Japanese Style Soy Sauce

Lee Kum Kee Japanese Style Soy Sauce 1

Smooth, Mellow Soy Sauce in Japanese Style Brew

Natural (Fermented) Brew

China

Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar

500 mL

3

Higashimaru

Usukuchi Shoyu

Higashimaru Usukuchi Shoyu 1

Light-Colored Japanese Soy Sauce for Delicate Dishes

Natural (Fermented) Brew

Japan

Water, Defatted Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Alcohol

1.8 L

4

Kikkoman

Freshly Pressed Soy Sauce

Kikkoman Freshly Pressed Soy Sauce 1

Unpasteurized Soy Sauce With Fresh, Delicate Umami

Natural (Fermented) Brew

Japan

Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt

450 mL

5

Marukin

Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce

Marukin Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce 1

Full-Bodied Japanese Soy Sauce With Balanced Flavor

Natural (Fermented) Brew

Japan

Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt

1 L

6

Lee Kum Kee

Gluten Free Soy Sauce

Lee Kum Kee Gluten Free Soy Sauce 1

Gluten-Free Soy Sauce With Authentic Umami Flavor

Natural (Fermented) Brew

China

Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar, Rice, Preservative (Potassium Sorbate)

500 mL

7

HaiTian Haday

Golden Label Light Soy Sauce

HaiTian Haday Golden Label Light Soy Sauce 1

Premium Chinese Light Soy Sauce for Everyday Cooking

Natural (Fermented) Brew

China

Water, Non-GMO Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar

500 mL

8

Lee Kum Kee

Salt Reduced Light Soy Sauce

Lee Kum Kee Salt Reduced Light Soy Sauce 1

Lower Sodium Soy Sauce With Full Umami Taste

Natural (Fermented) Brew

China

Water, Soybeans, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar

500 mL

9

San-J

Organic Tamari Reduced Sodium

San-J Organic Tamari Reduced Sodium 1

Gluten-Free Tamari With Milder Salt and Full Umami Flavor

Natural (Fermented) Brew

USA

Water, Soybeans, Salt, Alcohol

592 mL

10

Pantai

Light Soy Sauce

Pantai Light Soy Sauce 1

Mild, Savory Soy Sauce for Everyday Cooking

Chemical Brew

Thailand

Water, Soybean Extract, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar, Flavour Enhancer E621, Preservative E211

750 mL

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Kwong Cheong Thye
Light Soya Sauce Superior

Light Soya Sauce Superior 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱270
Mid
Reference price
₱270
Mid

A Light Soy Sauce That Packs a Lot of Flavor and Contains Less Sodium

Features and benefits:

  • Naturally brewed for a rich, umami-packed flavor
  • Versatile seasoning for stir-fries, marinades, and dipping sauces
  • No added MSG or preservatives
  • Made in Singapore using traditional methods

Reviews mention:

Reviews highlight the sauce’s deep but clean flavor that elevates both home-cooked and restaurant-style dishes. Users appreciate the natural brewing process, noting it enhances the authenticity of Asian recipes. It's especially favored for its balance — not overly salty or sweet, and many consider it a pantry staple for daily use.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginSingapore
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Wheat Flour, Salt
Net Weight640 mL
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Lee Kum Kee
Japanese Style Soy Sauce

Reference price
₱122
Low Mid

Smooth, Mellow Soy Sauce in Japanese Style Brew

Features and benefits:
  • Brewed using Japanese-style fermentation for a lighter, smoother taste
  • Perfect for sushi, sashimi, cold noodles, and light stir-fries
  • No added preservatives or coloring
  • Delivers balanced umami without overpowering saltiness

Reviews mention:

Users enjoy this soy sauce for its smooth, mild flavor that complements rather than overwhelms dishes. It's frequently chosen for Japanese cuisine — especially dipping sushi and sashimi, because of its lighter profile compared to Chinese-style soy sauce. Reviewers also mention the clean taste and how it doesn’t mask the natural flavors of food.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginChina
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar
Net Weight500 mL
No.3

Higashimaru
Usukuchi Shoyu

Usukuchi Shoyu 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱535
High Mid

Light-Colored Japanese Soy Sauce for Delicate Dishes

Features and benefits:
  • Usukuchi-style soy sauce with lighter color but higher salt content
  • Ideal for simmered dishes, soups, and dishes where color matters
  • Enhances umami while keeping broths and sauces light in appearance
  • Authentically brewed in Japan with traditional methods

Reviews mention:

Users appreciate how this soy sauce adds depth and umami without darkening the color of dishes. It’s a staple in Japanese kitchens, especially for nimono (simmered foods), chawanmushi, and light broths. Reviewers note it’s saltier than regular soy sauce, so a little goes a long way, and many love its ability to enhance without overpowering.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginJapan
IngredientsWater, Defatted Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Alcohol
Net Weight1.8 L
No.4

Kikkoman
Freshly Pressed Soy Sauce

Reference price
₱224
Mid

Unpasteurized Soy Sauce With Fresh, Delicate Umami

Features and benefits:

  • Unpasteurized “nama” shoyu with a clean, mellow flavor
  • Delivers a fresh, nuanced umami ideal for dipping and finishing
  • Made with whole soybeans using traditional fermentation
  • Best used raw to preserve its delicate aroma and taste

Reviews mention:

Shoyu enthusiasts praise this product for its complex yet gentle flavor that’s noticeably fresher than regular soy sauces. It’s a favorite for sashimi, tofu, cold noodles, and as a finishing touch for refined dishes. Users say the difference is clear in both aroma and depth, and many keep it refrigerated to retain its signature freshness.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginJapan
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt
Net Weight450 mL
No.5

Marukin
Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce

Reference price
₱205
Mid

Full-Bodied Japanese Soy Sauce With Balanced Flavor

Features and benefits:
  • Koikuchi-style soy sauce with a rich umami and smooth saltiness
  • Versatile seasoning for everyday Japanese cooking
  • Naturally brewed using traditional methods in Japan
  • Works well for marinades, stir-fries, dipping, and soups

Reviews mention:

Reviewers describe this soy sauce as balanced, with a fuller flavor than usukuchi but not as dark or overpowering as Chinese soy sauces. It’s praised for being a reliable all-purpose seasoning that suits both Japanese and fusion dishes. Many enjoy its authentic flavor profile and use it as their go-to soy sauce in the kitchen.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginJapan
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt
Net Weight1 L
No.6

Lee Kum Kee
Gluten Free Soy Sauce

Gluten Free Soy Sauce 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱158
Low Mid

Gluten-Free Soy Sauce With Authentic Umami Flavor

Features and benefits:
  • Brewed without wheat — suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals
  • Offers the same savory depth as regular soy sauce
  • Ideal for dipping, stir-frying, marinating, and seasoning
  • No added preservatives or artificial coloring

Reviews mention:

Users dealing with gluten intolerance or celiac disease value this soy sauce as a safe and flavorful alternative to traditional varieties. It’s often praised for tasting nearly identical to regular soy sauce — rich, umami, and versatile. Reviewers also like the fact that it's made by a trusted brand and integrates well into both Asian and Western recipes.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginChina
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar, Rice, Preservative (Potassium Sorbate)
Net Weight500 mL
No.7

HaiTian Haday
Golden Label Light Soy Sauce

Reference price
₱118
Low Mid

Premium Chinese Light Soy Sauce for Everyday Cooking

Features and benefits:
  • Golden label version with richer flavor and aroma
  • Enhances color and umami in stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades
  • Naturally brewed using non-GMO soybeans
  • Trusted household brand in Chinese kitchens

Reviews mention:

Home cooks and chefs alike appreciate its strong aroma and deep savory profile that instantly elevates dishes. It’s often mentioned as a staple in Chinese cooking — especially for recipes that require a more robust light soy sauce. Reviewers note its high quality for the price and its ability to add flavor without overpowering other ingredients.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginChina
IngredientsWater, Non-GMO Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar
Net Weight500 mL
No.8

Lee Kum Kee
Salt Reduced Light Soy Sauce

Salt Reduced Light Soy Sauce 1
Source:shopee.ph
Salt Reduced Light Soy Sauce 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱142
Low Mid

Lower Sodium Soy Sauce With Full Umami Taste

Features and benefits:

  • Contains 25% less salt than regular light soy sauce
  • Maintains deep umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness
  • Suitable for dipping, stir-frying, and seasoning
  • No added preservatives or artificial coloring

Reviews mention:

This soy sauce is popular among those watching their sodium intake, including families and individuals with dietary restrictions. Users say it delivers the same rich flavor as the regular version, making it an easy swap in everyday recipes. It’s frequently praised for being mild yet savory, and for blending well in both light and bold dishes.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginChina
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar
Net Weight500 mL
No.9

San-J
Organic Tamari Reduced Sodium

Reference price
₱1,148
High

Gluten-Free Tamari With Milder Salt and Full Umami Flavor

Features and benefits:

  • Brewed naturally for a rich, smooth umami taste
  • Contains 25% less sodium than regular san-J tamari
  • Certified organic, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly
  • Ideal for dipping, marinating, or stir-frying

Reviews mention:

Customers say this tamari offers deep, bold flavor without overwhelming saltiness. It’s often praised by those watching their sodium intake and by people with gluten sensitivities. Many also like its versatility in everything from sushi to salad dressings and report that it enhances dishes without overpowering them.

Brewing ProcessNatural (Fermented) Brew
Country of OriginUSA
IngredientsWater, Soybeans, Salt, Alcohol
Net Weight592 mL
No.10

Pantai
Light Soy Sauce

Light Soy Sauce 1
Source:shopee.ph
Light Soy Sauce 2
Source:shopee.ph
Light Soy Sauce 3
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱270
Mid

Mild, Savory Soy Sauce for Everyday Cooking

Features and benefits:

  • Light in color but rich in umami flavor
  • Perfect for stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades
  • Less intense than dark soy sauce — great for seasoning without darkening dishes
  • Widely used in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking

Reviews mention:

Reviewers say this light soy sauce delivers balanced saltiness with a subtle sweetness, making it great for delicate dishes. Home cooks often highlight its versatility in everything from fried rice to noodle soups. It’s appreciated for being flavorful without overpowering the dish’s original taste.

Brewing ProcessChemical Brew
Country of OriginThailand
IngredientsWater, Soybean Extract, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar, Flavour Enhancer E621, Preservative E211
Net Weight750 mL

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.

What’s the Difference Between Light and Dark Soy Sauce?

Light soy sauce has a saltier flavor and thinner consistency compared to dark soy sauce since it is fermented for a shorter period of time. This is why light soy sauce is used in many oriental recipes or as a dipping sauce.

How Many Calories Are There in Light Soy Sauce?

It may differ per product, but typically, light soy sauce has between 4-8 calories. It has roughly the same amount of calories as dark soy sauce. However, it has a pretty high sodium level, so make sure to use it in moderation.

Is Light Soy Sauce Less Salty?

No. Light soy sauce actually tastes saltier than dark soy sauce, but it has a more balanced flavor. Dark soy sauce isn't as salty because it has an overpowering taste, which is why light soy sauce is preferred by others for marinating or adding to different dishes.

Author: Aprille Jarcia

Re-Editor: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Light Soy Sauces

No. 1: Kwong Cheong ThyeLight Soya Sauce Superior

No. 2: Lee Kum KeeJapanese Style Soy Sauce

No. 3: HigashimaruUsukuchi Shoyu

No. 4: KikkomanFreshly Pressed Soy Sauce

No. 5: MarukinKoikuchi Light Soy Sauce

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Light soy sauces

Healthy Salad Dressings

10 Best

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.