Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans that have been fermented with Bacillus subtilis var. natto. It is a sticky, slimy food with a strong, pungent odor. Natto is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins K2 and B12. It is also a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve gut health.

Natto has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including reducing cholesterol levels, improving blood pressure, and boosting the immune system. It is also thought to be helpful in preventing cancer and osteoporosis.

Natto is a popular food in Japan, and it is becoming increasingly popular in other countries as well. It can be eaten on its own, or it can be added to other dishes such as sushi, rice bowls, and salads.

1. Grocery stores

This is a significant development because it makes natto more accessible to consumers. In the past, natto was primarily available at health food stores and Asian grocery stores. However, now that it is being sold at mainstream grocery stores, it is likely to reach a wider audience.

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There are several reasons why this is important. First, natto is a healthy food that is packed with nutrients. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins K2 and B12. It is also a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve gut health.

Second, natto is a versatile food that can be eaten in a variety of ways. It can be eaten on its own, or it can be added to other dishes such as sushi, rice bowls, and salads.

Third, natto is a relatively affordable food. It is typically sold in small packages, and it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Overall, the fact that natto is now being sold at mainstream grocery stores is a positive development. It makes this healthy and versatile food more accessible to consumers, and it is likely to lead to increased consumption of natto.

2. Health food stores

Health food stores are a good place to find natto because they typically have a wider selection of natural and organic foods than traditional grocery stores. Natto is a fermented food, and some people believe that fermented foods are healthier than non-fermented foods. Health food stores are also more likely to carry natto from different regions of Japan, which can give you a chance to try different flavors and textures.

• Variety: Health food stores typically have a wider variety of natto than traditional grocery stores. This means that you are more likely to find the type of natto that you are looking for, whether it is organic, non-GMO, or from a specific region of Japan.
• Quality: Health food stores typically have higher quality natto than traditional grocery stores. This is because health food stores are more likely to source their natto from reputable suppliers who use traditional fermentation methods.
• Convenience: Health food stores are often located in convenient locations, making it easy to find natto when you need it.

Overall, health food stores are a good place to buy natto because they offer a wide variety of high-quality natto at convenient locations.

3. Online retailers

In the past, natto was primarily available at health food stores and Asian grocery stores. However, thanks to the internet, natto is now available from a variety of online retailers. This is a significant development because it makes natto more accessible to consumers who may not have access to a local health food store or Asian grocery store.

There are several advantages to buying natto online. First, online retailers typically have a wider selection of natto than brick-and-mortar stores. This means that you are more likely to find the type of natto that you are looking for, whether it is organic, non-GMO, or from a specific region of Japan.

Second, online retailers often offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores. This is because online retailers do not have the same overhead costs as brick-and-mortar stores, such as rent and utilities. As a result, they can pass on the savings to their customers.

Third, online retailers offer the convenience of shopping from home. You can browse and purchase natto from the comfort of your own home, and have it delivered to your doorstep. This is especially convenient for people who have busy schedules or who live in rural areas.

Overall, buying natto online is a convenient and affordable way to get this healthy and delicious food. If you are looking for natto, be sure to check out the online retailers listed below.

4. Japanese grocery stores

Japanese grocery stores are a great place to buy natto because they typically have a wide selection of natto from different regions of Japan. This means that you are more likely to find the type of natto that you are looking for, whether it is organic, non-GMO, or from a specific region of Japan.

• Variety: Japanese grocery stores typically have a wider variety of natto than other types of stores. This is because Japanese grocery stores cater to a Japanese clientele, who are more likely to be familiar with and interested in natto.
• Quality: Japanese grocery stores typically have higher quality natto than other types of stores. This is because Japanese grocery stores are more likely to source their natto from reputable suppliers who use traditional fermentation methods.
• Convenience: Japanese grocery stores are often located in convenient locations, making it easy to find natto when you need it. This is especially important for people who live in areas with a large Japanese population.

Overall, Japanese grocery stores are a great place to buy natto because they offer a wide variety of high-quality natto at convenient locations. If you are looking for natto, be sure to check out your local Japanese grocery store.

5. Asian grocery stores

Asian grocery stores are a great place to buy natto because they typically have a wide selection of natto from different regions of Asia. This means that you are more likely to find the type of natto that you are looking for, whether it is organic, non-GMO, or from a specific region of Asia.

In addition, Asian grocery stores often sell natto at a lower price than other types of stores. This is because Asian grocery stores typically have lower overhead costs than other types of stores, such as rent and utilities. As a result, they can pass on the savings to their customers.

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Overall, Asian grocery stores are a great place to buy natto because they offer a wide variety of high-quality natto at a low price. If you are looking for natto, be sure to check out your local Asian grocery store.

FAQs about Where to Buy Natto

Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It has several health benefits and is becoming increasingly popular in other countries. If you are wondering where to buy natto, here are some frequently asked questions and answers.

Question 1: Where can I buy natto?

Natto can be purchased at a variety of places, including grocery stores, health food stores, and Asian grocery stores. You can also buy natto online from a variety of retailers.

Question 2: What type of natto should I buy?

There are many different types of natto available, so it really depends on your personal preferences. If you are new to natto, you may want to start with a milder variety.

Question 3: How do I store natto?

Natto should be stored in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to two weeks. If the natto is in a vacuum-sealed package, it may have a longer shelf life.

Question 4: How do I eat natto?

Natto can be eaten on its own, or it can be added to other dishes such as sushi, rice bowls, and salads.

Question 5: What are the health benefits of natto?

Natto is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins K2 and B12. It also contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve gut health. Natto has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including reducing cholesterol levels, improving blood pressure, and boosting the immune system.

Question 6: Where can I find more information about natto?

There are many resources available online about natto. You can also find more information in books and magazines about Japanese cuisine.

Overall, natto is a healthy and versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. If you are looking for a new food to try, natto is a great option.

Please note that this is just a general overview of where to buy natto. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet.

Tips for Buying Natto

If you are new to natto, here are a few tips to help you find and buy the best natto for your needs.

Tip 1: Check the expiration date. Natto is a fermented food, so it will continue to ferment over time. The longer the natto ferments, the stronger the flavor will become. If you are new to natto, you may want to start with a milder variety.

Tip 2: Choose a natto that is made from organic soybeans. Organic soybeans are grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides, which can be harmful to your health. Organic natto is also more likely to be made with traditional fermentation methods, which produce a higher quality product.

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Tip 3: Buy natto from a reputable source. There are many different brands of natto available, so it is important to choose a brand that you can trust. Look for brands that use high-quality soybeans and traditional fermentation methods.

Tip 4: Store natto in the refrigerator. Natto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If the natto is in a vacuum-sealed package, it may have a longer shelf life.

Tip 5: Natto can be eaten on its own, or it can be added to other dishes such as sushi, rice bowls, and salads. Natto is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits:

• Buying natto with a shorter expiration date will result in a milder flavor.
• Choosing organic natto ensures it’s free of harmful chemicals and traditionally fermented for better quality.
• Opting for reputable brands guarantees the use of quality soybeans and fermentation methods.
• Storing natto in the refrigerator preserves its freshness for up to two weeks (longer if vacuum-sealed).
• Natto offers versatility in consumption, whether eaten alone or incorporated into various dishes.

By following these tips, you can be sure that you are buying the best natto for your needs.