Nama-miso (Unpasteurized miso)
Japanese: 生味噌（なまみそ）
Unpasteurized miso with active enzymes. Rich flavor but continues to change.
Nama-miso contains active enzymes and living microorganisms since it has not been pasteurized. This yields richer flavor and deeper umami.
However, fermentation continues during distribution, causing gas generation and color changes. Some packages include gas-release valves. Refrigeration is essential, and flavor keeps evolving. Eating living miso means tasting fermentation in real time. Even refrigerated, nama-miso subtly shifts day by day. Whether you enjoy that gentle fluctuation may define your relationship with living miso.