Most Wasabi is Coloured European Horseradish
The majority of “Wasabi” products that are currently on store shelves do not contain any True Wasabi (Wasabia japonica) at all, only Coloured European Horseradish.
They mainly consist of European Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana), mustard and all types of green colouring – some natural and others cancer forming.
This green colouring can be the FDA approved colours – most of which have been recognised as cancer forming by several countries.
Other colours used are chlorophyll, spirulina and spinach leaf.
True Wasabi should only have one ingredient shown on the packaging. That should read “Wasabia japonica” – anything else indicates that it not True Wasabi.
Below is a table showing some of the common different products claiming to be Wasabi.
True Wasabi Products | Fake "Wasabi" Products |
---|---|
Ingredients: Wasabia japonica | Ingredients: Horseradish, Lactose (Milk), Corn Oil, Sorbitol, Salt, Water, Artificial Flavor, Turmeric, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Artificial Color (FD&C Yellow #5, FD&C Blue #1) |
Ingredients: 100% Pure Wasabia japonica | Ingredients: Horse Radish, Red Pepper, Ascorbic Acid (as Preservative), Citric Acid, FD&C Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF), FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine) |
As you can see from the above ingredient lists you have been mislead (lied to) by the companies that have sold you mislabeled product for many years. Now though, European Governments in particular, have started to remove these mislabeled products from store shelves and requiring the suppliers to change their marketing strategies.
Please make sure that you have a look at the ingredients list on the back of any food products you buy in the store to make sure you are actually getting what you think you are.
If you are not sure what type of wasabi you have or what is in it then have a look at www.wasabireviews.com which has reviewed a number of “wasabi” products and is still doing so. They have some scathing comments about the rubbish that is out there making out they are the best thing since sliced bread.
The 100% Pure Wasabi can be found by purchasing the Namida 100% Pure Wasabia japonica powder. The part of the plant used in this product is the rhizome which contains the most flavour and the biggest kick of the plant.
You can purchase the Namida Powder through this link. Enjoy.