Where to buy kimchi in France: the best places
⚠️ Medical advice : The information in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your doctor or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet.
Where to buy kimchi : You can find kimchi in Carrefour and Monoprix supermarkets, in organic grocery stores like Biocoop, in Asian and Korean grocery stores, as well as on specialized online shops like Koreastore.fr. A study published in the Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology () [1] lists more than 200 probiotic in traditional kimchi.
- Supermarkets : Carrefour, Monoprix, Auchan — international or fresh produce section
- Organic grocery stores : Biocoop, La Vie Claire — unpasteurized lacto-fermented kimchi
- Asian grocery stores : Tang Frères, K-Mart Paris — authentic Korean kimchi
- Online stores : Koreastore.fr, Amazon, iHerb — home delivery
- Local markets : artisanal producers of lacto-fermented vegetables
1. Where to buy kimchi in supermarkets: what is available
Where can you buy kimchi without having to look far? Supermarkets are your first choice. Carrefour offers Tanoshi (330g) in its Asian or international foods section. Monoprix and Auchan also carry similar brands, depending on the region.
These products are often pasteurized, which extends their shelf life but reduces the concentration of live lactic acid bacteria. They are ideal for discovering the taste of kimchi.
- Carrefour: Tanoshi Spicy Fermented Kimchi, 330g, International Groceries section
- Monoprix: availability varies by store
- Auchan: imported Asian brands, frozen food or canned goods section
- Leclerc: sometimes available in the organic or international products section
- Intermarché: limited offer, check online before you go
Practical tip: check the label. Pasteurized kimchi contains few or no live lactobacilli. If you're looking for documented probiotic benefits, opt for unpasteurized alternatives.
2. Where to buy organic and lacto-fermented kimchi: Biocoop and La Vie Claire
Where can you buy kimchi with live probiotics? Organic grocery stores are your best option. Biocoop distributes Nutriform lacto-fermented kimchi (380g), prepared with cabbage and carrots using the traditional Korean method.
Natural lacto-fermentation preserves lactic acid bacteria . According to a study published in Food Chemistry () [2], unpasteurized kimchi can contain up to 10⁸CFU /g of beneficial bacteria.
- Biocoop: Nutriform kimchi 380g, canned vegetable section
- La Vie Claire: Organic kimchi in a jar, availability varies by store
- Naturalia: range of lacto-fermented vegetables including kimchi
- Bio c' Bon: a selection of fermented Korean and European products
Lacto-fermented vegetables like kimchi are known for being rich in lactic acid and digestive enzymes. La Vie Claire and Naturalia often offer artisanal French kimchi, produced locally with seasonal cabbage.
3. Asian and Korean grocery stores: where to buy authentic kimchi
Where can you buy authentic Korean kimchi in France? Specialty Asian grocery stores offer the widest selection. In Paris, Tang Frères (13th arrondissement) and K-Mart (Opéra) offer kimchi imported directly from South Korea.
These products are often refrigerated and unpasteurized, which guarantees an active microbial flora. You will find several varieties: napa cabbage kimchi (baechu-kimchi), radish kimchi (kkakdugi), or cucumber kimchi (oi-sobagi).
- Tang Frères (Paris 13th arrondissement): wide selection of chilled Korean kimchi
- K-Mart Paris (Opéra): imported Korean brands, 500g to 2kg tubs
- Independent Korean grocery stores: located in Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux
- Regional Asian markets: check the weekly markets in your city
- Local Chinese grocery stores often offer refrigerated kimchi in jars
What exactly is kimchi ? It's a fermented Korean condiment made from vegetables, chili peppers (gochugaru), garlic, and ginger. Its artisanal preparation guarantees a higher microbial diversity than industrial versions.
4. Where to buy kimchi online: the best shops
Where can you buy kimchi from home? Several online stores deliver kimchi in France within 24 to 72 hours. Koreastore.fr is the leading French retailer of pasteurized, stabilized Korean kimchi, available for delivery throughout mainland France.
The pasteurization process used by Koreastore stops active fermentation but guarantees long-term preservation without refrigeration during transport. Other platforms offer live kimchi shipped in refrigerated packaging.
| Shop | Type of kimchi | Indicative price | Delivery | Live probiotics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koreastore.fr | Pasteurized / stabilized | 6–12 € / 500 g | All of France | No (pasteurized) |
| Amazon.fr | Pasteurized (various brands) | 5–15 € / 300–500 g | All of France | No (pasteurized) |
| iHerb.com | Pasteurized (US/KR brands) | 8–18 € / 400 g | France (delivery time 5–10 days) | No (pasteurized) |
| Biocoop.fr | Unpasteurized lacto-fermented | 5–9 € / 380 g | Click & collect | Yes |
| Local artisans (Etsy, Leboncoin) | Living craftsmanship | 10–20 € / 500 g | Variable | Yes |
For live probiotics, opt for orders with refrigerated delivery. Always check the production date: lacto-fermented kimchi is best consumed within 3 to 6 months of production.
5. Markets and artisanal producers: where to buy local kimchi
Where can you buy kimchi produced in France? Local markets and artisanal producers are an increasingly popular alternative. Many French fermenters offer kimchi made with local, often organic and seasonal, vegetables.
These French kimchis are generally unpasteurized and rich in live lactic acid bacteria. They are distinguished by their aromatic profile, which differs from traditional Korean kimchi, sometimes containing less chili pepper.
- Weekly organic markets: look for the stalls selling fermented vegetables
- AMAP (Association for the Maintenance of Peasant Agriculture): some producers offer seasonal kimchi
- Zero-waste neighborhood grocery stores: often partners of local fermenters
- Social media: Artisanal fermenters sell live on Instagram and Facebook
The scientifically documented benefits of kimchi include support for the gut microbiota, anti-inflammatory action, and a supply of vitamins C and K. These effects are maximized with unpasteurized kimchi.
6. How to choose a good kimchi: pasteurized vs. unpasteurized
Knowing where to buy kimchi isn't enough: you also need to choose the right product. The main distinction is between pasteurized kimchi and unpasteurized kimchi (live kimchi).
Pasteurized kimchi is more convenient to store and transport. Unpasteurized kimchi contains live lactic acid bacteria, including Lactobacillus plantarum, Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Lactobacillus brevis, documented for their effects on intestinal health according to ANSES( 2023[3].
- Pasteurized kimchi : long shelf life, stable taste, few or no live probiotics
- Live lacto-fermented kimchi : active probiotics, store in the refrigerator (3–6 months)
- Artisanal kimchi : maximum microbial diversity, superior nutritional profile
- Industrial kimchi : standardized, readily available, but often with additives
Always read the ingredient list. Quality kimchi contains: napa cabbage, Korean chili, garlic, ginger, sea salt, fish sauce or shrimp paste (or their vegan equivalent). Avoid products with artificial preservatives or added vinegar.
7. What is the price of kimchi in France: budget and value for money
Where can you buy kimchi at the best price? The price varies depending on the type and source. Pasteurized kimchi in a supermarket costs between 3 and 8 euros for 300 to 400g. Unpasteurized, artisanal kimchi can cost 15 to 20 euros for 500g.
Many readers tell us that the value for money is significantly better in Asian grocery stores, where 1 kg jars of imported Korean kimchi are available for between 8 and 15 euros.
- Supermarket (pasteurized): €3–8 / 300–400 g
- Organic grocery (lacto-fermented): €5–10 / 380g
- Asian grocery (imported Korean): €8–15 / 1 kg
- Specialized online shop: €6–18 / 500g + shipping
- Local artisanal: €10–20 / 500 g
- Homemade: €1–3/kg (cost of ingredients only)
8. Making your own kimchi at home: the economical alternative
Where can you buy kimchi when you can't find what you need? The answer is sometimes in your own kitchen. Making your own kimchi is simpler than it seems and guarantees a vibrant, additive-free product at the lowest cost.
The basic ingredients are available in all supermarkets: napa cabbage, salt, garlic, and ginger. Korean chili peppers (gochugaru) can be found in Asian grocery stores or online. Fermentation takes 1 to 5 days at room temperature.
The complete recipe for making homemade kimchi details each step, from salting the cabbage to jarring. A well-prepared homemade kimchi contains exceptional microbial diversity, comparable to the best artisanal preparations.
9. Kimchi and probiotics: what science says
Where can you buy kimchi with the most probiotics? The answer depends on the manufacturing process. A meta-analysis published in Nutrients () [4] confirms that unpasteurized kimchi contains strains of Lactobacillus spp. associated with a reduction in intestinal inflammation and an improvement in microbiota diversity.
EFSArecognizes lactic acid bacteria from food fermentation as safe and safe for the general healthy population [5].
- Lactobacillus plantarum: dominant strain, documented anti-inflammatory effects
- Leuconostoc mesenteroides: produces lactic acid and natural bacteriocins
- Lactobacillus brevis: contributes to the production of B vitamins
- Weissella confusa: a strain specific to kimchi, studied for its immune-boosting effects
The most effective probiotic foods include kimchi, kefir, kombucha, and miso. Kimchi stands out for its high prebiotic fiber content from cabbage, which feeds the beneficial bacteria already present in your gut.
10. How to store kimchi after purchase
Where to buy kimchi is one thing, storing it properly is another. Unpasteurized kimchi should be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Fermentation continues slowly in the cold, which gradually intensifies the flavor.
- Refrigerator (0–4 °C): optimal storage, 3 to 6 months after opening
- Unopened and refrigerated: up to 12 months for artisanal lacto-fermented kimchi
- Unopened pasteurized kimchi: depending on the expiration date indicated, often 12–24 months
- Freezer: possible but not recommended — destroys live bacteria
- Room temperature: avoid after opening — accelerates fermentation and acidification
Kimchi with a strong, sour smell isn't necessarily bad; it's a sign of advanced fermentation. Taste it. If it's very sour, use it in cooking (kimchi soup, fried rice) rather than as a raw condiment.
11. Which varieties of kimchi should you buy depending on your needs?
Where can you buy kimchi that suits your preferences? Several varieties exist, each with a distinct nutritional and taste profile. Napa cabbage kimchi (baechu-kimchi) is the most common and easiest to find in France.
- Baechu-kimchi (Napa cabbage): the classic, available everywhere, rich in fiber and probiotics
- Kkakdugi (radish): crunchy texture, milder taste, ideal for beginners
- Oi-sobagi (cucumber): fresh and light, seasonal, rare in France
- White kimchi (baek-kimchi): without chili peppers, ideal for people sensitive to spices
- Vegan kimchi: without fish sauce or shrimp, increasingly available in organic versions
12. Kimchi and digestion: why nutritionists recommend it
Where can you buy kimchi to improve your digestion? Any source offering high-quality, unpasteurized kimchi. The live lactic acid bacteria in kimchi support the production of digestive enzymes and strengthen the intestinal barrier.
A study published in the Journal of Ethnic Foods () [1] shows that regular consumption of kimchi (75 g per day for 4 weeks) significantly improves the diversity of the gut microbiota in healthy adults.
Lacto-fermented vegetables like kimchi also provide prebiotics from cabbage. This combination of probiotics and prebiotics is what nutritionists call a symbiotic.
13. Vegan Kimchi: Where to buy kimchi without animal products
Where can you buy vegan kimchi in France? The traditional version contains fish sauce or shrimp paste. But vegan alternatives are becoming increasingly available in organic grocery stores and online shops.
- Biocoop and Naturalia often offer certified organic vegan kimchis
- Specialized online stores: Koreastore offers vegan versions upon request
- Local artisans: most French fermenters offer vegan versions
- Homemade: replace the fish sauce with soy sauce or miso
14. Mistakes to avoid when buying kimchi
Where to buy kimchi without making a mistake? Avoid these common errors made by new consumers. The first is confusing pasteurized kimchi with live kimchi on the label.
- Don't ignore the ingredients: some products contain added vinegar (a sign of industrial, unfermented kimchi)
- Buying solely based on price: the cheapest kimchi is often the least rich in probiotics
- Ignoring the production date: kimchi that is too old may be over-fermented and very acidic
- Store at room temperature after opening: accelerates degradation
- Confusing kimchi and sauerkraut cabbage: two different fermented products with distinct microbial profiles
- Where to buy kimchi in supermarkets: Carrefour (Tanoshi), Monoprix, Auchan — convenient pasteurized products but low in live probiotics.
- Where to buy unpasteurized organic kimchi: Biocoop (Nutriform 380 g), La Vie Claire, Naturalia — best choice for probiotic benefits.
- Where to buy authentic Korean kimchi: Asian grocery stores (Tang Frères, K-Mart Paris) and online shops like Koreastore.fr.
- Where to buy live artisanal kimchi: local organic markets, artisanal producers, social networks of French fermenters.
- Where to buy kimchi at the best value for money: Asian grocery stores (€8–15/kg) or homemade (€1–3/kg).
Frequently asked questions about where to buy kimchi
Where can I buy kimchi near me?
Where can you buy kimchi locally? Start by checking your local supermarkets (Carrefour, Monoprix, Leclerc) in the international foods section. Organic grocery stores like Biocoop and Naturalia almost always carry it. Use Google Maps with the search term "Asian grocery store" to find specialty shops near you.
Where can I buy unpasteurized kimchi in France?
Where can you buy live kimchi with active probiotics? Biocoop is your best option among organic supermarkets. Korean and Asian grocery stores often carry refrigerated, unpasteurized kimchi. Local artisanal fermenters and organic markets are also excellent sources.
Can you buy kimchi on Amazon?
Yes, Amazon.fr offers several brands of kimchi, mostly pasteurized. Standard delivery times (24–48 hours) are suitable for pasteurized products. For unpasteurized, live kimchi, it's best to choose a specialty shop with refrigerated delivery.
Where can I buy authentic Korean kimchi in France?
Where can you buy imported Korean kimchi? Tang Frères (Paris 13th arrondissement), Kmart (Paris Opéra), and independent Korean grocery stores in major French cities. Online, Koreastore.fr is the leading French retailer of authentic Korean products, with delivery throughout mainland France.
What is the average price of kimchi in France?
The price of kimchi varies between 3 and 20 euros depending on the type and source. Pasteurized kimchi in supermarkets costs 3 to 8 euros for 300–400g. High-quality, unpasteurized, artisanal kimchi costs 10 to 20 euros for 500g. The best value for money is often found in Asian grocery stores.
Does the kimchi sold in supermarkets contain live probiotics?
Most kimchi sold in supermarkets is pasteurized, which eliminates live bacteria. To benefit from the probiotics documented by scientific research, choose an unpasteurized, lacto-fermented kimchi, available in organic grocery stores or from artisan fermenters.
Where can I buy vegan kimchi?
Organic grocery stores (Biocoop, Naturalia) often offer vegan kimchi without fish sauce or shrimp. Most French artisanal fermenters produce vegan versions. Online, filter your searches with "vegan kimchi" to find the right options.
How can you tell if a kimchi is of good quality?
A good quality kimchi contains simple ingredients: cabbage, salt, chili, garlic, and ginger. Avoid products with added vinegar, artificial preservatives, or colorings. Unpasteurized kimchi should be kept refrigerated and may fizz slightly—a sign of active fermentation.
Can you buy kimchi in bulk?
Yes, some Asian and Korean grocery stores sell kimchi in bulk or in large tubs (1 to 5 kg). This is the most economical option for regular consumers. Bring your own airtight container or ask for a tub with a lid.
Where to buy kimchi in Lyon, Marseille or Bordeaux?
All major French cities have Asian grocery stores that sell kimchi. In Lyon, the Guillotière district has a high concentration of Asian grocery stores. In Marseille, the Belsunce and Noailles districts are good examples. In Bordeaux, look in the Saint-Michel district. Organic grocery stores in these cities also offer lacto-fermented kimchi.
Is homemade kimchi better than store-bought kimchi?
From a nutritional standpoint, well-prepared homemade kimchi is often superior to pasteurized, industrially produced versions. It contains maximum microbial diversity and no additives. Preparation takes approximately 30 minutes, followed by 1 to 5 days of fermentation at room temperature.
Where can I buy kimchi outside of major cities?
Where can you buy kimchi in rural areas or small towns? Online stores like Koreastore.fr and Amazon.fr deliver throughout France. Biocoop has a network of over 700 stores in France, including in medium-sized cities. Weekly organic markets are also a good option in suburban areas.
Key takeaways
Where to buy kimchi in France? You now have all the options: supermarkets for convenience, organic grocery stores for live probiotics, Asian grocery stores for authentic Korean flavor, and online shops for convenience. Where to buy the highest quality kimchi? Opt for unpasteurized, lacto-fermented kimchi, available at Biocoop, Korean grocery stores, or directly from local artisanal fermenters.
Your concrete action this week: head to your nearest organic grocery store or Asian market, compare two kimchis (pasteurized vs. unpasteurized), and start with 2 to 3 tablespoons a day to get your gut microbiome used to it. If you can't find anything locally, Koreastore.fr delivers within 48 hours.
Sources and studies
- Health Benefits of Kimchi as a Probiotic Food — Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology,
- Microbial Community Analysis of Kimchi During Fermentation — Food Chemistry,
- Probiotics and gut health: risk and benefit assessment — ANSES,
- Effects of Kimchi Consumption on the Gut Microbiota — Nutrients,
- Scientific Opinion on the Safety of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Fermented Foods — EFSA,
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.
