Gochujang is Korea's iconic naturally fermented red pepper paste, made from red pepper powder, rice, soybeans, and salt using traditional methods. It is characterised by its spicy, salty, and deeply savoury umami flavour — far more complex than a simple hot sauce, thanks to the fermentation process. To draw a parallel with European food culture: just as cheese or wine develops depth through ageing, Gochujang transforms its simple ingredients into a rich and layered flavour through fermentation and maturation. The heat level is moderate, and it can be used in small amounts to adjust the intensity of a dish.

Yes, Sempio Sun-Dried Gochujang 1kg is certified vegan and vegetarian. It contains no ingredients of animal origin and is made entirely from plant-based ingredients including rice, water, corn syrup, red pepper powder, salt, soybeans, and wheat extract. Please note, however, that this product contains wheat (gluten) and soybeans, so individuals sensitive to these ingredients should take care.

Yes, there are important allergen details to be aware of. This product contains the EU mandatory allergens **WHEAT (including gluten)** and **SOYBEANS**, as required under EU Food Information Regulation 1169/2011. Wheat is present via wheat extract and wheat gluten in the soy seasoning. This product is therefore not gluten-free. Additionally, traces of crustaceans, fish, molluscs, and sesame may be present due to shared production facilities (may contain). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients are advised to exercise caution.

Sempio Sun-Dried Gochujang holds official Halal certification (certifying body: BPJPH Indonesia). As with all fermented foods, a small amount of alcohol may be naturally produced during the fermentation process; however, this is fermentation-derived alcohol and not artificially added. The Halal certification covers the product in its entirety, including this naturally occurring alcohol, and the product is suitable for Muslim consumers.

Before opening, store in a cool, dry place at room temperature. After opening, seal the lid tightly and refrigerate. When stored correctly in the refrigerator, the product will maintain its quality for several months. Although Gochujang has a naturally high preservative capacity as a fermented food, avoid prolonged exposure of the surface to air after each use. Always use a clean spoon to help keep it fresh for longer. Please also note that this product has a relatively high salt content of 5.6g per 100g, so we recommend adjusting the amount of other salty ingredients such as salt or soy sauce when cooking.