What is Rice Koji? A Gut-Friendly Fermented Ingredient in Granola

Rice koji is gaining attention as a powerful ingredient in gut-friendly foods—and for good reason. It's the star component in our simple, healthy gut granola, offering natural sweetness, improved digestibility, and a host of nutritional benefits. But what exactly is rice koji?

At its core, rice koji is steamed rice that has been inoculated with a specific mold called Aspergillus oryzae, also known as the "koji mold" or "koji starter." This traditional Japanese fermentation method has been used for centuries in the making of miso, soy sauce, and sake. During the fermentation process, the mold breaks down starches in the rice into simpler sugars, creating a naturally sweet and digestible food base.

Unlike conventional sweeteners, rice koji has a moderate glycemic index (GI), and its natural sweetness comes without added sugars or artificial additives. This makes it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers seeking clean-label products. Our granola, for instance, is completely sugar-free, additive-free, and gluten-free—making it easy to support your gut health every day.

But the benefits of rice koji go far beyond taste. The fermentation process unlocks a range of bioactive compounds, including probiotics, amino acids, enzymes, and B vitamins. These nutrients not only support digestion but also help create a balanced intestinal environment. Interestingly, even the dead bacteria from fermentation continue to play a role in gut health, offering support to your microbiome.

Incorporating rice koji into your diet can contribute to:

• Improved digestion

• Enhanced nutrient absorption

• Natural immune system support

• A richer intake of dietary fiber and vitamins

Because of its mild sweetness, high digestibility, and powerful nutritional profile, rice koji is an ideal ingredient for daily wellness. Whether you're looking to improve your gut health or simply enjoy a clean, satisfying snack, rice koji granola is a smart and delicious choice.

Discover how a centuries-old tradition is transforming modern nutrition—one bowl of granola at a time.

NEW: Gut-Friendly Granola

We’ve got something new—and your gut is going to love it.

Introducing our Koji-Fermented Gut-Friendly Granola:

1. Naturally sweet with no added sugar
2. Made with 100% Japanese koji-fermented rice
3. Perfect for topping yogurt, mixing with nuts, or snacking straight from the bag

Try the Gut-Friendly Granola Here

We made this for the snackers who care about their health, their energy, and their peace of mind.