10 Best Light Soy Sauces in the Philippines 2026 | 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.
Quick List - Top Light Soy Sauces
Kwong Cheong Thye
A Light Soy Sauce That Packs a Lot of Flavor and Contains Less Sodium
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.
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.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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How to Choose a Light Soy Sauce – Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Choose between a natural or chemical brew.
- Check the country of origin.
- Go for light soy sauce with a short ingredients list.
- Select the right size based on your needs.
- Carefully inspect the packaging and the product itself.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
10 Best Light Soy Sauces to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brewing Process | Country of Origin | Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Kwong Cheong Thye Light Soya Sauce Superior | | 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 | | Smooth, Mellow Soy Sauce in Japanese Style Brew | Natural (Fermented) Brew | China | Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar | 500 mL | |
3 | Higashimaru Usukuchi Shoyu | | 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 | | Unpasteurized Soy Sauce With Fresh, Delicate Umami | Natural (Fermented) Brew | Japan | Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt | 450 mL | |
5 | Marukin Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce | | 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 | | 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 | | 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 | | 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 | | 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 | | Mild, Savory Soy Sauce for Everyday Cooking | Chemical Brew | Thailand | Water, Soybean Extract, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar, Flavour Enhancer E621, Preservative E211 | 750 mL | |
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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Singapore |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Wheat Flour, Salt |
| Net Weight | 640 mL |
Smooth, Mellow Soy Sauce in Japanese Style Brew
- 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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | China |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar |
| Net Weight | 500 mL |
Light-Colored Japanese Soy Sauce for Delicate Dishes
- 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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Ingredients | Water, Defatted Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Alcohol |
| Net Weight | 1.8 L |
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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt |
| Net Weight | 450 mL |
Full-Bodied Japanese Soy Sauce With Balanced Flavor
- 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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt |
| Net Weight | 1 L |
Gluten-Free Soy Sauce With Authentic Umami Flavor
- 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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | China |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar, Rice, Preservative (Potassium Sorbate) |
| Net Weight | 500 mL |
Premium Chinese Light Soy Sauce for Everyday Cooking
- 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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | China |
| Ingredients | Water, Non-GMO Soybeans, Wheat, Salt, Sugar |
| Net Weight | 500 mL |
Lee Kum KeeSalt Reduced Light Soy Sauce
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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | China |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar |
| Net Weight | 500 mL |
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 Process | Natural (Fermented) Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybeans, Salt, Alcohol |
| Net Weight | 592 mL |
PantaiLight Soy Sauce
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 Process | Chemical Brew |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Thailand |
| Ingredients | Water, Soybean Extract, Wheat Flour, Salt, Sugar, Flavour Enhancer E621, Preservative E211 |
| Net Weight | 750 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.
Other Condiments That Will Give Your Recipes a Flavor Boost
Make your meals extra special with these condiments. Check out these links to learn more!
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 Thye｜Light Soya Sauce Superior
No. 2: Lee Kum Kee｜Japanese Style Soy Sauce
No. 3: Higashimaru｜Usukuchi Shoyu
No. 4: Kikkoman｜Freshly Pressed Soy Sauce
No. 5: Marukin｜Koikuchi Light Soy Sauce
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.