S&B Neri Wasabi is a tube-format wasabi paste made by the Japanese food brand S&B. Looking at the ingredients, it contains Horseradish 31.7% and genuine Wasabi (Wasabi Japonica) 4.5%. Real wasabi (hon-wasabi) is notoriously difficult to cultivate and commands a very high price, so the vast majority of commercial wasabi products worldwide are made using horseradish as a base blended with a small amount of genuine wasabi — exactly as in this product. The flavour is characterised by a sharp, nose-clearing heat that is quite different from the tongue-burning spice of chilli peppers. It is used in a wide variety of dishes including Sushi, Sashimi, and cold noodles.

Yes, S&B Neri Wasabi is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. It contains no ingredients of animal origin. It is also gluten-free, making it safe for those who need to avoid gluten. Please note, however, that this product does not carry Halal certification, so those requiring a Halal-certified product should take note.

This product contains Mustard, one of the 14 major allergens required to be declared under EU Regulation 1169/2011. Specifically, it is present in the form of Mustard Oil within the flavouring ingredient. Anyone with a mustard allergy should avoid this product. Additionally, the manufacturer's facility also handles nuts, so those with a nut allergy should be aware of the potential for cross-contamination. The product also contains the humectant Sorbitol (E420); consuming large amounts of sorbitol may have a laxative effect, so excessive intake is not recommended.

It is best to start with a very small amount — try about the size of a pea (approximately 0.5g) to begin with. The most straightforward way to use it is to dissolve a little into soy sauce and dip Sushi or Sashimi. It also pairs beautifully with European cuisine: mixed into mayonnaise or sour cream it makes a distinctive dipping sauce, and a small amount stirred into a salad dressing adds real depth. It goes particularly well with fish such as salmon and tuna, and a tiny amount added to a steak sauce works wonderfully too. After opening, keep refrigerated with the cap firmly closed.

Before opening, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, refrigerate (below 4°C) and keep the cap tightly closed, using the product as quickly as possible. Once opened, exposure to air will gradually reduce the aroma and pungency. For the exact best-before date, please check the date printed on the tube. As this is a compact 43g tube, it is recommended to use it within 2–4 weeks of opening.