Tempeh

Also listed as Fermented Soybean Cake and Soy Tempeh.

Nuts & Legumes

This is what the ingredient is.

Tempeh is a fermented soybean cake. Labels may say tempeh.

Here is why it shows up on the label.

It is sliced, marinated, and used as a plant-based protein.

Here is what food agencies say.

Sold as a refrigerated soy food under FDA labeling rules; soy allergen declaration applies.

Here is what research has found.

Pathogen controls for fermented soy products apply; recalls are less common than for soft tofu but possible.

Here are a few things worth knowing.

Contains soy. Some tempeh includes grains—check for gluten.

Sources

  • FDA Food Labeling
  • USDA FSIS
  • FDA Recalls

How to read this page

We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.

v1.0Updated 9/17/2026